Saturday, August 2, 2025
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on August 2, 2025.
PALMER, Irene Irene Bernier Harris Palmer 1925-2025 Irene Bernier Harris Palmer passed away on June 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 99.A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 12:00pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 205 Fairmont Blvd South. Friends and relatives may meet with the family at 11 a.m.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
CONNER, Laurie CONNER Laurie Ann Conner, passed away on July 23, 2025 at the age of 63, surrounded by her family after a short but courageous battle with cancer.
Laurie, was born on December 31, 1961 in Fort Macleod to Willy and Merna Campbell. She was raised just south of town on a farm where she spent many hours with her horses and other farm animals. She married her high school sweet heart Ron, in August of 1981 and began a family in 1983 with the birth of the first of six children.
Ron and Laurie raised their children on the Conner family farm, south west of town. She spent countless hours tending to her children in any way needed. Ensuring that everyone was fed with her famous Potato Salad, Baked Spaghetti or Chowders. There was always room at the table for anyone who needed an ear to bend or a shoulder to lean on. Many kids spent countless hours making memories with her whether it was at the farm, Calaway Park or camping. She made sure everyone was looked after regardless of who they belonged to. Laurie had a special spot in her heart for all her grandchildren, and they always looked forward to spending time with her being babysat or having sleep overs. Gramma always knew what movie snacks were needed for each of them, of course with extras. Family meant everything to her and she would do all she could to make sure they were never without.
If she wasn’t with family she was with her friend’s making quilts, talking on the phone, discussing horses of varying sizes or traveling around running errands connecting with everyone around town. Everyone knew mom as a kind woman with a heart of gold. She enjoyed a good laugh and wasn’t shy about sharing a joke, even if some were a tad edgy. She was a strong woman, but that was needed when you’re a rancher raising a brute of children.
Laurie is survived by Ron, her loving husband of 44 years. As well as her children Joanna (Derek) Lyke, Nicki (Luke) Defoort, Ryan (Tara) Conner, Wade (Kaitlyn) Conner, David (Caity) Conner and her ten grandchildren, Jesse, Adalyn, Troy, Ben, Allie, Carson, Lucas, Emma, Jake and Kaycee.
She is predeceased by her son Cody, as well as her parents Willy and Merna Campbell. She is also predeceased by her father and mother-in-law Roy and Allie Conner.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Fort Macleod homecare team, Lethbridge Palliative Care, the staff at the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, and her Family doctor Dr. Richard Low.
No service is scheduled at this time. We ask that you remember and reminisce about your favorite times with mom.
TAMS, Marilyn Marilyn Tams 1969 – 2025 Although unexpectedly sudden, the Lord called to Himself in glory, Marilyn Tams (née Veldman) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at the age of 55 years.
A private burial service will be held at the Taber Memorial Garden.
A celebration of life event will be announced for September 2025. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Marilyn was the beloved wife of Sid, mother of Jesse (Sarah), Erin (Scott), Joey (Rachel), Kami, Levi and Oskar and grandma to seven beautiful grandchildren, Hannah (2019), Jack (2021), William (2023), Ivy (2023), Dorothy (2024), Milo (2025), and Baby Tams (expected September 2025). She is survived by her siblings Ed (Carol) Veldman, Pete Veldman, John (Sylvia) Veldman, Rob (Heidi) Veldman, Margaret (Colin) Senneker, Alice (Henry) Prosper, Tim (Mara) Veldman; her in-laws John and Dorothy Tams and by Sid’s siblings Mickey (Jake) Van Seters, Harvey (Angela) Tams, Sharon Tams, Gord (Ina) Tams, Mike (Corinna) Tams, Rick (Tasha) Tams, Jessica (Kent) Van Bostelen, Rob (Catherine) Tams and by numerous nieces and nephews who loved her.
She was predeceased by her parents Hendrik and Wiek Veldman, brother-in-law Louie Tams and nephew Jordan Senneker.
Born September 10, 1969, Marilyn grew up on a farm east of Lethbridge where she lived until she married the love of her life, Sid. She said she had the best childhood with her family and especially her cousins, Betty and Carol. Life on the farm was good. She had fond memories of hoeing sugar beets and spending time with her mom and dad. She attended Henderson Business College and got a job at Taber Hospital doing data entry. Marilyn and Sid dated for four years and were married on July 3, 1992. They had five children in eight years, Jesse (1993), Erin (1995), Joey (1997), Kami (1999) and Levi (2001). They fostered Oskar (2001) and adopted him in 2015. Her greatest joy was being a mom and grandma. She loved to crochet, run, do woodworking and had shared her love of these things with each of her children and grandchildren in one or another. Birthday parties were the biggest cause for celebration and there had to be cake, she made sure of it. She loved every sport she ever tried and desired to excel at them. She made sure her kids could participate in any sport they wanted to try. Marilyn knew when to worry and when to let things go because she knew about grace and how to give it. Marilyn was a ferocious advocate for those she loved, but her capacity for love spilled over to so many, her hospitality touched so many more than we may ever know.
Although there were times when God seemed far away, she never wavered in her conviction that she was in the loving hands of her Heavenly Father. She trusted in her Redeemer and claimed His Promises as her own.
In the words of her granddaughter Hannah: Grandma is nice, and loving, and loves to make smoothies for her grandchildren.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Marilyn’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200, 325 Manning Road NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 2P5 (www.cancer.ca) or to the Taber Food Bank, 5512 – 48 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1S4.
Marilyn’s family would like to thank the entire team of healthcare professionals for the excellent care they provided to her throughout this journey.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
KENWOOD, Veronica “Vera” VERONICA “VERA” KENWOOD 1927 ~ 2025 We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Veronica Ellen Kenwood, beloved wife of the late Albert Kenwood, on July 27, 2025, at St. Therese Villa.
Left to mourn Veronica are her children Paul (Cindy), Cecily, Laura (Robert Hunt), Stephen (Jill), and Brian (Kelley); her grandchildren Jon Paul (Shima), Camilla (Alex), Connor, and Madelaine; and her great-grandchild Weston Oliver Whitaker. She also leaves behind Kelley’s sons Ryan, Colton, and Hunter.
Veronica was born in Taber to Elizabeth and Thomas Pyne. She was the youngest of seven children and she often spoke of the vibrancy in her home. She trained as a nurse at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, and she worked as one until she met and married Albert. Veronica will be lovingly remembered by all for her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit. She was a keen observer of human nature and had a quick wit. We enjoyed many a fine repast at her home.
Besides her loving husband Albert, Veronica was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth & Thomas, her siblings, and most tragically, her son John Thomas.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Gwen Oliver, the caring staff at St. Therese, and to her former physician, Dr Colin Walsh.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00p.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 – 12 AVE S, LETHBRIDGE, AB, with Father Kevin Tumback officiating.
Interment to follow at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY, 1210 SCENIC DR S, LETHBRIDGE, AB.
Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta, #50, 1202 2 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E3 or to the Interfaith Food Bank, 1103 – 3 Ave N, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1H 0H7.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
WHITLOCK, Verna WHITLOCK VERNA WHITLOCK, of Grande Prairie, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at the age of 95 years.
Verna Schenk was born a little farm girl in Halcourt AB, the second of seven children: Doris (Bob Eggen), Mom, Annie (Allen Lowe), Fred (Ilene Velve), Thelma (Eldon Ray), Helen (Henry Chateau) and Lorraine (Orest Oucharek).
She married our Dad, George Whitlock in 1948 in Grande Prairie and raised the three most cherished people in her life, Marj, Diane (Best in Show 1953 in spite of slightly crossed eye) and Lori.
Verna was an icon in ladies wear for 32 years, beginning at St Clair Shop on Richmond Ave. A lady passing through Lethbridge recently approached us and said, “Verna Whitlock! You sold me my first wedding dress!” Everyone remembers her.
Mom excelled at everything she did. First it was bowling and we remember that she’d be off to the Western Canada Roll Offs at Easter time. Then came many years of raising and showing horses with Lori who was a very accomplished rider horse woman, and lots of parades with many family members, Doris, Thelma, all of us. On top of career and horses, Verna kept an immaculate yard and beautiful flowers which she won “Communities in Bloom” awards for.
At around 60, Mom got into golf and of course she became a very good golfer. She took it seriously with memberships at the Dunes and GP Country Club with her good friend, Larry Foster.
Lastly there was crib which became a nightly ritual with Marj up until a few months ago when her eyesight just became too dim.
The past five years, Mom lived with Marj and Diane in Lethbridge but if you asked her where she lived, it was always Grande Prairie. Just visiting.
She went for car rides every day to check out the geese at Henderson Lake, the pheasants and critters at the river bottom and whatever was happening. Mom was pretty much a fixture at the mall (Tim Hortons and NY FRIES) where she’d meet with friends, especially Bob, and make new ones.
Friday nights regularly at the casino for the bands and the dancers.
All in all, it was a good full life. Every night Mom would say, “Thank you for the good day.” How sweet is that?
At Verna’s request, no funeral service will be held.
In memory of Verna, please consider an act of kindness for a friend, animal or a stranger.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
OLESKY, Joan Joan Louise Olesky (nee Vaselenak) April 24, 1940 – July 21, 2025 We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Joan Olesky. Born and raised in Lethbridge, Joan was the youngest of Emil and Emily Vaselenak’s three children. She was pre-deceased by her parents, sister Dianne, brother Delbert, and other relatives in the Lethbridge area.
Raised in the tricky situation of being the principal’s daughter, Joan learned early on how to connect with people. Genuinely curious about people and what made them tick, she formed instant connections and relished sharing stories about those she met. She will be most remembered for her playful way, how she treated everyone as an equal, and her open-minded attitude. Joan made friends everywhere she went and nurtured deep and long-lasting relationships.
Joan was sharp as a tack and spirited to her core. In her early years, she excelled as an elementary school teacher. After she married, Joan created a vibrant and happy home in Edmonton and Sherwood Park where she dedicated herself to being the world’s best mom to her four children – especially Dean and Grant who attended Robin Hood Association (RHA). With such a busy life, it’s a miracle that Joan found time for children Brian and Lynn, but she made sure to dote on them too. Both have such special memories of time spent with mom and feel deeply connected to her.
Fun followed Joan. Her home was a social hub in every neighbourhood she lived in, including an acreage outside of Sherwood Park. Joan loved the outdoors and enjoyed all acreage life had to offer – taking care of animals, tending to her bountiful garden, inviting city folk out for a visit, and simply enjoying nature. An accomplished piano player, the playful sound of Joan’s music often wafted throughout the Olesky home.
Later in life, Joan embarked on several adventures with her partner in crime, Lee Mann, including travels to Victoria and PEI, sunny vacations to Phoenix and Reno, and cruises to several destinations including the Yukon and Caribbean.
Fiercely independent, at 85 she was living in her own house with her driver’s license and she enjoyed picking up Dean and Grant for weekend visits from their group homes.
Joan will be deeply missed by her kids – Dean, Brian (Lisa Wickstrom) and Lynn (Brad Hoover), brother-in-law Quince Wensveen, and sister-in-law Patricia Olesky. In addition to her parents and siblings, Joan was predeceased by son Grant this past November, partner Lee Mann, and nephew Ian. She will also be fondly remembered by niece Janice Wensveen (Earl Smith) and nephew Quentin Wensveen along with his children Mathias, Sophie, and Hadlee.
On Wednesday, August 13th at 10:30 am a funeral mass and celebration of life will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish (OLPH), in Sherwood Park. Everyone is welcome. OLPH will livestream this service. Joan’s online memorial page will be updated as more details become available, at https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/glenwood/obituaries/joan-olesky/145287.html
MCLENAGHAN, Carmon CARMON MCLENAGHAN 1939 – 2025 Carmon Lloyd McLenaghan of Fort Macleod, Alberta, beloved husband of the late Ruth McLenaghan, passed away suddenly on July 23, 2025, at the age of 86 years.
Carmon is survived by his stepchildren, Yvette Quesnelle, Karl Quesnelle, and Henry Quesnelle. As well as numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and their families.
Besides his loving wife, Ruth, Carmon was predeceased by his parents, Charles Henry McLenaghan and Elsie McLenaghan; sister, Joyce Wolff; and brother, Milton McLenaghan.
Carmon grew up a Saskatchewan farm boy and as he got older, he worked different trades – from construction for C.P. Rail, to cook, and to bartending.
He moved to Fort Macleod in the late 70’s when his employer purchased the American Hotel and asked Carmon to run the bar. He worked there for 10 years then attended the bar at the legion for many more years. It was in Fort Macleod that he met the love of his life, Ruth, whom he married and had 44 wonderful years with.
Carmon’s easy-going demeanor, quiet wit, and unassuming manner won him many friends and and the respect of anyone who knew him. Carmon remained active well into his 80’s and was always willing to help anyone he could. Carmon was a genuinely good man who will be sorely missed by family and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2424 – 5 Avenue, Fort Macleod, with Reverend Sidney Black officiating.
A Celebration and meal to follow at the Roal Canadian Legion Branch 46, Fort Macleod. All are welcome.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.edensfuneralhome.com
ZOOK, Thomas THOMAS ZOOK 1952 ~ 2025 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tom Zook, who left us peacefully on July 29, 2025, at the age of 73 years, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Tom was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Susan. He was a proud and caring father to Brad (Stephanie) and Jennifer (Aaron), and the most adored Papa to his cherished grandchildren, Mya, Natalie, and Mack – who brought endless joy to his life.
He is survived by his sister Terry (Roch) Bruneau and his brothers Jim (Linda), Paul (Kim), and Brian (Barb) Zook, all of Lethbridge. Tom is also survived by many brothers and sisters-in-law whom he considered not just family, but dear friends: Dianne (John) Lowther, Cathy (Ken) Forbes, Don Crabb (Chris) and Dave (Sharon) Crabb.
He left behind numerous nieces and nephews on both sides of the family, all of whom he cared for deeply and took great pride in. His presence in their lives – as a supporter, storyteller, and steady source of love – will be deeply missed.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, Elvin and Betty Zook, his Mother and Father-in-law William and Iris Crabb, and his sister-in-law Lily Crabb.
Tom was an incredibly hardworking and dedicated husband, a wonderful father, and an amazing Papa. He loved his family fiercely and unconditionally. He enjoyed every second spent with his grandchildren and made a point to be present and involved in their lives – whether cheering them on, helping with projects, or simply sharing in the joy of everyday moments. His love for them knew no limits, and the bond they shared was truly special.
Tom worked in the construction industry in the Lethbridge area for many years. He signed on as a carpenter for the City of Lethbridge and eventually worked his way up to Facility Services Supervisor. He retired after 28 years in 2015. He took great pride in his work and had a passion for creating, fixing, and improving things – whether at work or at home. He especially enjoyed working on projects with family, tackling renovations, and spending time in his garage.
Tom was happiest surrounded by those he loved. He and Susan shared countless hours working side by side in their garden and yard, enjoying a life full of love, laughter, and purpose. He also deeply valued connection – he enjoyed coffee sessions with his close buddies and maintained many lifelong friendships that were a true source of joy and support throughout his life.
Tom had a love for the sport of rugby. While he didn’t play himself, he was actively involved for many years as a dedicated supporter. He especially enjoyed watching his son play and was a proud presence on the sidelines – cheering, encouraging, and connecting with the rugby community that meant so much to him. Tom was recognized by the Lethbridge Rugby Club as an Honorary Lifetime Member.
Music was another constant joy in Tom’s life. He shared his passion for music with his siblings, friends, and family – always eager to introduce a great song or artist. He had an incredible knack for naming songs and their performers, especially the classics, and his playlists were legendary. Whether it was The Beatles, Zappa, Hendrix, or old rock favourites, Tom’s deep knowledge and love of music brought people together.
He was known for his kind heart, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty. His presence brought comfort, his humour brought light, and his love was a constant. Tom gave so much of himself to those around him, and he will be deeply missed.
A funeral service will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday August 6th at Saint Augustine’s Anglican Church (411 11th Street South, Lethbridge) with Reverend Gillian Breckenridge officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Canadian Cancer Society, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
MOKOSCH, Eric ERIC MOKOSCH 1940 ~ 2025 ERIC MOKOSCH, beloved partner of Linda Larson, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 85 years.
Eric is survived by his brother Erwin (Debra Stoltenberg), nieces Laura (Terry) Mehrer, Kathryn (Lyndon) Cousins, and Julie (Ben) Timms; great-nephews Denton (Kyndra Konig), Royden (Laura), and Brendan (Alexis) Mehrer, Ian Cousins, Parker Timms and, great-nieces Kristen Cousins and Ryley Timms; as well as two great-great-nephews and four great-great-nieces. He was predeceased by his parents Andreas and Maria Mokosch, and his ex-wife Marion Mokosch.
Eric was born in Germany and immigrated to Edmonton Alberta at the age of 12. Eric overcame many obstacles moving to a new country and went on to dedicate his life to a successful career in education. Over the course of a long and respected career, he earned the admiration of his students and the esteem of his colleagues, culminating in his service as Dean of Education at the University of Lethbridge for a period of 12 years. Eric had a sharp wit, a signature laugh, and a unique sense of humor that left an impression wherever he went. He loved golf and spent countless summer days on the course with his friends, where his voice – often carrying across several holes – could be heard lamenting a bad shot with his famous, “What was that?!”
He will be remembered for his warmth, intellect, and unfailing generosity of spirit. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family and friends, but he will remain with us – securely and fondly – in our memories, our stories, and the joy he brought to so many lives.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00a.m. on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 – 12 AVE S, LETHBRIDGE, AB, with Father Kevin Tumback officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
FRIEDRICK, Emma Emma Friedrick
1936 – 2025
Emma Jean Friedrick (nee Orosz), beloved wife of Melford Friedrick, passed away on July 30, 2025 at the age of 89 years.
She is survived by her loving children, Lorraine Friedrick of Sylvan Lake, Dianne Braun of Stirling, and Brian Friedrick of Milk River. She is also survived by her precious grandchildren Rachelle of Calgary; and Eric, Emily, and Rio of Stirling.
Emma was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Anna Orosz, and five siblings: Beth (Baxter) McKinley, Ann (Hank) Schoorl, Charlie Orosz, Helen (Peter) Schamber, and John (Inez) Orosz. She was sister-in-law to Melford’s twelve siblings: Lloyd, Ralph (Edith), Bill (Sharon), Verl (Donna), Selby (Sylvia), Lesley (Doug), Teresa (Alec), Norman (Deb), Lorne (Shannon), Jamie, Carol, and Debbie (Dennis). She was also a sister-in-law to Emma (Bob) Hulit, Gordon (Jean) (Bev) Balog, Steven (Roberta) Balog, and Kenneth (Nora) Balog. Emma also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Emma was born on May 21, 1936, on the family farm in 1-17 near Milk River. She married the love of her life, Melford, on July 10, 1958. The joy of her life was always her family, and “I love you” was said to her husband, children, and grandchildren in abundance. Emma spent many years as a beloved primary grade teacher in Coutts, and her love of children was immense, with her finding a special place in her heart for each. She loved nature and farm life, enjoyed gardening and reading, and was well-known as an excellent cook. Emma will be remembered for her caring nature, humbleness, generosity, honesty, and integrity.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
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