Saturday, July 26, 2025
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on July 26, 2025.
VAN LEUKEN, Audrey VAN LEUKEN Audrey (Galts) Van Leuken, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, auntie and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 27, 2025, at the age of 89.Born March 16, 1936, in Sweetgrass, Montana, Audrey grew up on the family homestead in Coutts, and later Lethbridge, Alberta. She was the third of seven children born to Ernie and Irene (Graham) Galts.
Audrey met the love of her life, John Van Leuken, at a school dance in 1954. They married the following year and shared 64 devoted years together. As they raised their three children, Audrey pursued a career in radiology technology, working in Calgary and Lethbridge and at one point serving as provincial president of the Alberta Association of Radiology Technologists. She was respected for her professionalism, dedication, and calm, caring presence.
After retiring, Audrey and John moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where their home became the heart of many joyful family gatherings. Audrey’s warmth, kindness, and welcoming nature made everyone feel at home – especially during their famous Thanksgiving dinners and Boxing Day celebrations.
She and John loved to travel, exploring Canada, the U.S., and beyond, always prioritizing time with their children and grandchildren. Audrey had a gift for making people feel seen and loved, and her quiet strength carried her gracefully through life, including her later years living with Alzheimer’s.
She is deeply missed by her children Irene (Ken) Keeler, Larry (Edith) Van Leuken, and Carina Wheatley; her grandchildren Justin, Lisa, Brent, Shawn, Victoria, and Griffin; her siblings Mary Koskowich Kuharski (Don), Marvin Galts (Kathi), Verna Hierath, and Anne (John) Gazankas; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband John, and her brothers Larry, Delwin, and Don.
A funeral Mass will be held in the fall in Phoenix, Arizona.
GEDCKE, Judi GEDCKE Judi Gedcke (nee Tolley) of Duncan, B.C., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on July 10, 2025. She will be lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Judi is survived by her husband Al; sons Kent and Bryce Finley; grandchildren Magnus, Trygve, Ole, Leo, Nick and Graydon; brothers Kevan, Mel and Phil Tolley; numerous nieces and nephews, and by her dear friends Pat and Christine. Judi was predeceased by her parents, Ted and Esther Tolley, daughter Christina Fike and nephew Jason Tolley.
Judi was born in the Galt Hospital in Lethbridge, Alberta, on a Leap Day. Her early years were spent in Monarch, Alberta prior to her admittance to the Galt School of Nursing. After working several years in Lethbridge, she and her family moved to the West Coast. Judi moved back to Alberta in 1973, settling in the Crowsnest Pass and working at the Crowsnest Pass Hospital. In the mid-80s she and her husband built a home at Moyie Lake, B.C. In 2004, Judi made a final move to the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island where she resided until her passing.
Judi was a voracious reader. She loved nature, especially birds and flowers (particularly lavender), as well as pet cats and the colour purple. She enjoyed numerous hobbies and activities over the years including needlework, jigsaw puzzles, scrapbooking and card making. But perhaps her biggest accomplishment was the completion of a maternal family history book. She even went to the family homestead in Norway and visited with surviving relatives to gain further information on the history of the family. She was always keen on family and tradition, Christmas trees, and particularly fond of Norwegian foods at Christmas: pickled herring, lefse, and grøt.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cowichan Cat Rescue or Cowichan Hospice.
MOULTON, Carol CAROL MOULTON 1949 ~ 2025 It is with sorrow that we announce Carol Anne Moulton (nee McNeilly) passed away peacefully after a long illness on July 18, 2025 at Good Samaritan Society Park Meadows Village. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Carol was predeceased by her parents, loving husband of nearly 30 years Herbert Lawrence (Larry) Moulton, sister Delores (Tkachuk) and brother Ron McNeilly. She leaves behind her sons Jason (Janay) of Lethbridge and Del (Kari) of Coaldale. Grandchildren Ethan, Jasper, Lily, and Jonas will always remember their Granny with great love and affection and will carry on her Christmas cookie tradition. Also surviving Carol is devoted sister Judy (Jerry) Spevakow of Calgary and cherished fiancé Armen Schaaf, as well as numerous sisters and brothers-in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Born on April 22, 1949, in Edmonton, Alberta to Mansel (Mac) and Edna McNeilly, Carol grew up in Edmonton and was married there to Larry Moulton on July 27, 1968. Carol and Larry left Edmonton for Nobleford, finally settling in Coaldale to raise their family. So many hilarious family stories about camping, fishing, and working on the Moulton farm near Turin will be cherished.
Carol loved her Coaldale community. She had many friends, was well-known for her happy and outgoing personality, and for 35 years most residents of Coaldale knew her as a warm and helpful staff member at the Saan (later Bargain) Store. Her great love of sports and competition meant that she could often be found in the hockey rink loudly cheering on Jason and Del as they played hockey. Carol herself always seemed to be competing in a tournament or league, with a particular passion for curling, softball and golf. Carol was also an active participant, and later organizer, of the Coaldale Fun Cribbage group which was started by Larry and his much-missed brother Bill. For her dedication to her job and positive impact on the community, Carol was recognized with a Coaldale Chamber of Commerce Award.
In addition to sports, Carol was always enthusiastic to jump into a game of Skip Bo, crib, or any other card or board game that her family and friends might suggest. Her skill and luck were well-known and often resulted in a skunking for those who tried to play her. In retirement, Carol and Armen enjoyed much of their time playing cards and helping to organize crib nights and tournaments in Coaldale, at the Army Navy & Airforce Veterans Club in Lethbridge, and in other towns around southern Alberta.
Despite declining health in the last few years, Carol remained positive. Jason, Del and Janay want to thank Kari for her devotion to Carol’s care. The family would also like to thank the nurses and doctors at Chinook Regional Hospital and the nurses and staff at Good Sams for their wonderful and compassionate care of Carol.
A celebration of life reception will be held at a later time.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
PANTHER BONE – BULL CALF, Andrew PANTHER BONE – BULL CALF
Andrew Thomas Jr. Panther Bone – Bull Calf, passed away on July 17, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta at the age of 47 years.
A wake service will be held at Moses Lake Community Hall, Blood Reserve, Alberta on Monday, July 28, 2025 from 5:00 – 11:00 pm. A funeral service will also be at Moses Lake Community Hall on Tuesday, July 29 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Bull Calf Cemetery, Blood Reserve.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
FISK, Paulette FISK Paulette Sylvia (Eastman) Fisk of Raymond Alberta, passed away after a short illness on July 24, 2025 at the age of 84, surrounded by family.
A beloved matriarch, Paulette was mother to 14 children, and grandmother to 41 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her spirit and values.
She was deeply committed to her faith in Jesus Christ as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, faithfully contributing her time, heart, and hospitality in service.
Known for excellent home-made bread and her love of garden flowers, Paulette devoted her life to her family, her faith, and to her community.
She is mourned by her husband Donald H. Fisk, and by her children Cheryl Skinner (Kris), Donna Dunnet (Ed), Barry Fisk (Holly), Brenda Fisk (Stacey), Pamela Jo Wood (Roy), Dean Fisk (Diane), Danelle Fisk (deceased), Paul Fisk (Leanne), Cory Fisk (Carrilyn), Carla Lange (Chris), Erick Fisk (Kristy), Jared Fisk, Lonnie Fisk (Maggie), and Brent Fisk (deceased).
Paulette is predeceased by her parents Stephania (Stella) and Erick, as well as her brothers Archie, Alfred, Robert, and Ronald. She is survived by her sisters Margreta and Edna.
A Funeral Service will be held Thursday July 31, 2025, at 11:00am at the TAYLOR STREET CHAPEL, 221 N 400 W in Raymond.
Friends are welcome to meet with the family from 7:00 to 8:00pm on Wednesday July 30, 2025, at the church.
Rest in peace, Paulette – your dedication shaped our family, and your faith inspired us. Your memory will remain a blessing forever.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca
VAN NISTELROOY, John VAN NISTELROOY It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of JOHN FRANK VAN NISTELROOY on Thursday, July 17th, 2025 in Lethbridge, AB.
John was born in Lethbridge on January 9th, 1956, the second of seven children to Gerry and Annie Van Nistelrooy. He was raised on the farm in Iron Springs, where he made many memories growing up and working alongside his family.
He met and married his high school sweetheart Bonnie Bailey in Picture Butte, where a vision of the life they would build together first took shape. The goal of having a farm came to fruition when land was purchased in Enchant AB in 1977. Over the next 40 years, he raised his family while continuing to build and diversify the business, with the addition of a cattle operation, and enjoyed success watching it grow. It brought him pleasure spending time with family, building a life and legacy, and making many lifelong friends and memories that were with him until his passing. His unique perspective served him and those around him well, as he volunteered and served on many boards until his retirement to Lethbridge in 2017.
Over the years, he always loved playing cards with family and friends, sought out new challenges, found adventure in travel, and enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandchildren, biking, going to the park, and attending their numerous dance and sporting events. He took great pride in his home and yard, and in always being there when anyone was in need of advice, a helping hand, conversation, a well-timed pick-me-up, or just a coffee together. He could always be counted on.
He is survived by his loving wife Bonnie; two children Jeff (Lynn) and Jodie (Moira); his three adoring grandchildren Beau, Shea, and Taryn; father Gerard Van Nistelrooy; siblings Frank (Helen), Henry (Wendy), Albert, MaryAnne (Soren) Christensen, Martin (Jackie), and Kenny (Karen); as well as brothers and sister-in-law Allan (Shirley) Bailey, Gary (Nita) Bailey and Michelle (Doug) Edwards along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. He is also survived by a close group of his cherished lifelong friends.
He was predeceased by his mother Annie, mother and father-in-law Yvonne and Leroy Bailey, sister-in-law Sheri, niece Adrienne, and close friend Vivian Ragan.
We welcome you to honour the Life of John with us. A Prayer Vigil will be held at SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH – 1011 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. with Deacon Jim Manzara officiating.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. with Father Kevin Tumback celebrating. A Reception and Celebration of John’s Life will follow.
A private family Graveside Service will be held at Mountain View Cemetery, where John will be laid to rest.
Special thanks to Brenda and the staff at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit for their dedication and compassion, which we deeply appreciated.
To the family and friends who have, and continue to come together in the journey of John’s illness and loss alongside us, we have valued your support, visits, kind words and gifts. There are not words to express how much it has meant to both John and ourselves.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you follow in John’s example, and give of yourself in time, caring and gifts to those around you.
The void left in Johns passing can never be filled, and he will be deeply missed now and always by friends, family, and all who knew him.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
RICHARDSON, Iris RICHARDSON It is with profound sadness that the family of IRIS RICHARDSON announce her passing on May 17, 2025.
A Come and Go Reception will be held at the GALT MUSEUM & ARCHIVES, 502 – 1 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, beginning at 5:00 P.M., with a formal service to start at 5:45 P.M.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
SHAW, Russell SHAW RUSSELL FRANKLIN SHAW, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Erma Shaw, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at the age of 86 years.
A Celebration of Russ’ Life will take place at Cornerstone Funeral Home – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with Pat Siedlecki officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Russ’ name to the Canadian Cancer Society (cancer.ca), The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (heartandstroke.ca), or Diabetes Canada (diabetes.ca).
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
GYORFFY, Victor GYORFFY VICTOR GYORFFY, of Coaldale, AB, husband of the late Joanne Gyorffy, passed away at home, on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at the age of 75 years.
At Victor’s request, no service will take place.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
CHIEF BODY, Jennifer JENNIFER CHIEF BODY March 8, 1963 – July 15, 2025 Jennifer Chief Body, of the Blood Tribe, passed away on July 15, 2025, at the age of 62.
A Wake Service will be held from 5:00 – 9:00 PM, on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2424 5 Ave, Fort Macleod. Following the Wake Service, an all-night Wake Service will continue throughout the night at the families Coalhurst residence.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Eden’s Funeral Home.
Following the Funeral Service, Jennifer will be laid to rest at St. Catherine’s Cemetery (Standoff), Blood Tribe.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.edensfuneralhome.com
HINTON, Vern HINTON, Vern Elgin 1947 – 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Vern Elgin Hinton, who went to be with his Lord on July 23, 2025, at the age of 77 years at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, AB.
Born on November 11, 1947 in Regina Saskatchewan, Vern was the beloved son of Elgin & Jean. He grew up in Balgonie & Regina Saskatchewan, where he developed a lifelong love for sports and farming.
Vern was known for his humor, patience, kindness, and generosity that touched many lives through his various jobs and endeavours.
He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth “Beth”; and the mother of his first 3 kids, Lorraine. His first 3 kids are Mary Pat (John), Jennifer, Barbara (Nate); and his next 3 kids, Jean (Ryan), John (Presley), Joe (Hailey); as well as his grandchildren Patrick (Pranjal), Grahame, Oprah, Jameson & Luke. He will also be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. MST on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at The Lethbridge Christian Tabernacle, 1805 9th Avenue North, Lethbridge AB. All who knew and loved Vern are welcome to attend and share in remembering his life. For those who can’t attend, there will be a livestream link posted on Facebook and on http://www.thetab.ca.
If you have stories of Vern you would like to share with the family, you can E-mail: vbhinton3@gmail.com.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Chinook Regional Hospital for their compassionate care for Vern during all his stays at the hospital.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Streets Alive Mission Lethbridge, in his honor.
Love you, bye! To share condolences, please visit http://www.evergreenfh.ca
FLETCHER, Grant Grant Fletcher 1941 – 2025 Grant Kenneth Fletcher, beloved husband of the late Marilyn Fletcher, passed away in Taber on Friday, July 25, 2025 at the age of 84 years.
Further information will follow once arrangements have been finalized.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
VIRGINILLO, Anthony “Tony” Anthony “Tony” Virginillo June 10, 1938 – July 24, 2025 Surrounded by love and with family around him, Anthony “Tony” Virginillo passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on July 24, 2025, at St. Michael’s Health Centre in Lethbridge.
He was a devoted husband to his late wife Jean, and a proud father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, brother- in-law, and Uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Tony is lovingly remembered by his children: Michael Virginillo, Bill Virginillo, and Rosanne (Harold) VandenBerg; his grandchildren: Randal (Jordon) Wong, Eden Virginillo, Danielle VandenBerg, Cassidy (Spencer) VandenBerg, and Tiana (Clayton) Miller; and his great-grandson, Colter Wong. He will also be missed by his siblings: Don (Lynn) Virginillo, Nick (Beatrice) Virginillo, Phyllis Tiffin, and Mary (Ray) Dow.
Tony was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean; his parents: Michele and Rosina Virginillo; his brother, Mario; and his daughter-in-law, Susan.
Born in Civitanova, Italy, Tony immigrated to Canada in 1952 with his family in search of new opportunities, where he eventually built a life rooted in hard work, strong values, and deep love for his family. A farmer by trade, Tony worked tirelessly to build a life from the ground up. His farm was a place of pride – where he cultivated not just crops, but memories and lessons that would shape generations.
Tony was a man of quiet strength and strong convictions, who found joy in simple things – time with family, a good meal, a competitive card game, and the traditions of his Italian heritage. He will be remembered for his warmth, stubborn charm, and generous spirit.
Evening Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Monday, July 28, at Our Lady Of The Assumption Catholic Church, 2405 – 12th Avenue South, Lethbridge.
A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, July 29, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady Of The Assumption Catholic Church, followed by a burial at Mountain View Cemetery. A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow at the Italian Canadian Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca
ENGLISH, Louise In Loving Memory of Louise Jane English 1932 – 2025 It is with great sadness that the family of Louise Jane English announces the sudden passing of their beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, great-great- grandmother, and highly respected matriarch of the Blackfoot Confederacy. A true pillar of her community, Louise passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 93.
Louise’s presence was a source of strength, love, and cultural guidance for many. She dedicated her life to her family, her people, and her Catholic faith while continuing the preservation of her Blackfoot traditions and ways of knowing. Her legacy will continue to live on through the many generations she nurtured and the countless lives she touched.
As per Louise’s wishes, a two-day wake will be held at her home, located west of Fort Macleod on Highway 3 at Range Road 272. The wake will begin on Tuesday, July 29 at 4:00 p.m.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 31 at 11:00 a.m. at the Crow Lodge Arbor on the Piikani Nation. Following the service, Louise will be laid to rest at the Piikani Nation Cemetery.
After she is laid to rest, the family warmly invites all family, friends, community members, and guests to join them for a feast at the Crow Lodge Arbor in honor of Louise’s life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be sent to: omarlacooke@gmail.com
The family extends their deepest gratitude for the love, prayers, and support during this time of mourning.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.edensfuneralhome.com
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