Saturday, March 7, 2026
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 7, 2026.
HOWELL, Bradley HOWELL It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the untimely passing of BRADLEY DARRYL HOWELL, who left this world on February 19, 2026, at the age of 43. Though his passing was not sudden, it came far too quickly, and his absence leaves a void in the lives of those who loved him.Brad was born on July 8, 1982 in Red Lake, Ontario to Darryl and Caroline Howell. In 1983, he and his family moved to Winnipeg, where he spent his childhood alongside his brother, Kris. Some of his fondest memories were made at the family cottage in Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba with his beloved Grandma, Chloe Norman. It was there she taught him how to play crib – a game that became a lifelong passion and a symbol of the friendly competition he loved so much.
Brad was predeceased by his grandparents Bertram and Chloe Norman, his auntie Deb and uncles Bob, Bart and Dale.
In 2006 Brad became a dad for the first time when he welcomed his son Noah, who was born in Calgary, Alberta. In 2007, Brad accepted a transfer with Sport Chek and moved to Lethbridge, where he built not only a career but a wide and loyal community of friends.
Professionally, Brad worked in numerous roles at Sport Chek before taking a leap of faith in 2018 with two close friends to co-found Bridge Bud Supply. Together, they built an ultra-successful ten-store business, which they proudly ran until 2024 when it was sold to FIKA Company. Brad continued working with the new ownership – whom he deeply respected and appreciated – until his final days. He was not only an exceptional businessman but an incredible employee, teammate, and leader. He was reliable, hardworking, and brought a contagious energy everywhere he went.
In 2013, he met the love of his life, Kari Nakama, and they began dating in 2015. Together they built a beautiful life and welcomed their daughter Chloe in 2017 and their son Blake in 2019. The family grew even brighter this year with the addition of their beloved dog, Ben, who Brad adored.
Kari, Noah, Chloe and Blake were the center of Brad’s world. His pride in his children was unmistakable, and his devotion to Kari was steady, playful, and deeply rooted in friendship. She was his greatest love, his Tuesday night date, his partner through everything. Their home was filled with fun, laughter, community, music, friendly competition, delicious BBQ and a kind of warmth and energy that truly reflected Brad’s heart.
Brad was a sports fan his entire life – first as a kid on the basketball court, where he played through his school years and, even to this day, still loved nothing more than shooting hoops out back, faithfully participating in annual fantasy football drafts, and never missing an opportunity to cheer on his beloved Winnipeg Jets. He also loved to strap on the old skates for a lap or two with his ‘Stagz’ hockey team but if you asked him, the best part of playing hockey wasn’t the game – it was the after-game “shower beers” with his buddies. Often the first one in and the last one out, Brad lived for the time spent with his friends after the game in the locker room.
He was also an avid sneaker collector, always on the hunt for the next pair to add to his impressive collection, a hobby that brought him much joy.
Most Tuesdays, Brad could be found at Backstreet West for “Name That Tune,” a weekly tradition he cherished with Kari and dear friends. It wasn’t just trivia – it was community, joy, and something he genuinely looked forward to each week.
Brad leaves behind his devoted partner, Kari; his children, Noah, Chloe, and Blake; his dog, Ben, his parents, Darryl and Caroline Howell; his brother, Kris; his grandmother Charlotte Macfarlane and countless extended family members and lifelong friends who will forever feel the space he leaves behind.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, as Brad himself had thoughtfully planned. It will be an opportunity to share stories, raise a glass, laugh, and celebrate in all the ways our beloved B-Rad Dad Brad aka The Toxic Avenger aka Boz LightYear would have wanted.
Brad’s legacy is one of love, laughter, loyalty, and living life fully. He didn’t do anything halfway – he loved big, worked hard, celebrated loudly, and showed up wholeheartedly. “Keep the negatives out of your positives” wasn’t just a phrase to Brad it was the way he chose to live his life. The world is certainly quieter without him, but infinitely better because of him.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
SHATZ, Sandy SANDY SHATZ 1949 ~ 2026 With heavy hearts, the family of Sandy Shatz announces her peaceful passing at the age of 76 on Saturday, February 28, at the Chinook Regional Hospital, with her loving family by her side.
Sandy was a devoted mother to Stacey (Cari) Matis, Danna (Stanko) Matotek, and stepmother to Jodi (Sunny) Shatz. She wore her title of Nana with great joy, treasuring her grandchildren, Gage Matis (Kenzie), Madison Matotek (Connor) and Nicholas Matotek (Forest). Each of them held a special place in her heart.
She will be dearly missed by her brother, Bill (Connie) Scullen, her sister, Shelly Unrau, her beloved nephews and nieces as well as her dear and close friends, Joe, Stephanie, Josephine, and MaryLou.
Sandy was predeceased by her husband, Brian; her parents, William and Catherine Scullen; her infant brother, Kenny; her in-laws Tony and Edna Shatz; brother-in-law, Don Unrau; and her stepson, Jeff Shatz.
Quiet, gentle, beautiful soul and endlessly caring, mom found her greatest happiness in her family. They were her pride, her comfort, and her life’s greatest blessing. Her steady love and kind spirit will remain woven into the hearts of all who knew her.
We take comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with her beloved fur babies, Peanut and Sunshine. Sandy was so loved and will be deeply missed.
In keeping with Mom’s wishes, a private family service will be held. Those wishing to remember her may do so with a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in her memory.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
JANOS, Joe Joe Janos 1938 – 2026 Joseph Janos, beloved husband of Emilie Janos, passed away peacefully in Taber on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the age of 87 years.
Joe was born in Lethbridge on July 10, 1938. He received his education in Barnwell, Claresholm and Taber. He attended Olds College and SAIT, where he studied agricultural mechanics before taking over the family farm. For a few years he worked at Sunalta as a mechanic. Joe loved to travel and visited six continents. He was a collector of planes, clocks, tractors, computers and polar bears.
Besides his loving wife Emilie, Joe is survived by his in-laws Jack and Vera Stacey and by a nephew, nieces and cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents Vincent and Anna (née Halvek) Janos, Emilie’s parents John and Mary Palas and by his sister-in-law, Vilma Brost.
A private burial service will be held at Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge on Saturday, March 7, 2026. 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.
MCKENNA, Diana McKENNA It is with great sadness that we announce that, after a courageous battle with a myriad of long-standing health complications, the passing of our beloved DIANA ALMA McKENNA. Diana was a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother and friend who will be greatly and truly missed.
Diana was born to parents, Olof and Alma Olsson of the Coutts/Milk River area. She grew up on the family farm with her best friend and little “sis” Linda as well as her older brothers Leonard, Edward, Victor and Norman.
After the passing of her father Olof, herself along with her mother and sister, moved to Lethbridge to complete her education. This is where she met her husband to be, Ron Mckenna. They met in the early spring of 1965 and were married February 25, 1967. Soon after, they began raising three wonderful children together; Their daughter, Sherri Lynn, and two sons, Sean Edward, and Jason Ronald. During their time in Lethbridge, Diana worked as a Tele typist for the Lethbridge Herald, where she was known to be exceptionally efficient and detailed in proofing. Since this was prior to computers, she had to work with the utmost precision, a skill she wore proudly. Later, she also worked as a legal steno secretary.
Diana, Ron and their children, lived in Lethbridge on Lakeway Boulevard for approximately eight years. After which they sold their home and purchased an acreage near Raymond Alberta, a longtime goal now fulfilled. She and Ron laboured diligently to build their new home. After years of love and hard work the yard was eventually lush with trees, flowers and shrubs. A yard now lovingly named, Windhaven.
It was in the early spring of 1983, when she and her husband Ron were involved in a motor vehicle accident. The result of this tragic accident left Diana with a new challenge, adapting to life in a wheelchair. She had to relearn every fundamental aspect of her life, however, this did not slow her down. She took every new lesson in stride knowing that as a survivor, she would endure. Additionally, she continued to love working in the yard and embraced every moment of change. This included assisting with planting trees, creating flowerbeds, and continuing her diligent and loving work on the garden.
Along with her green thumb, Diana was also a very creative soul. She loved working and creating with her hands. She did many crafts, including needlework and stitchery, pottery, painting, and stained glass. Diana was especially proud of her sewing machine and serger, with which she created many sewing projects like blankets and clothing for the grandchildren. Diana also loved playing games and puzzling, especially with her family.
Diana never let her challenges get her down. She, and her modified little blue Lincoln travelled far and wide. She would often be seen driving to Lethbridge or out to her daughter’s farm in Monarch. She was not one to be tied down, over the years she was involved in many unique activities, some of these include wheelchair curling and wheelchair hockey. She was also a torch bearer for the Rick Hansen man in motion tour.
Besides her loving husband, she is survived by: daughter, Sherri (Bob) deBoer, and their three children Riley (Brandi) deBoer, Nathan (Mackinley) deBoer, and Ainsley deBoer. Sean McKenna and daughter, Ashley Hegi (deceased). Jason (Wendy) McKenna, and their son Jaxon McKenna. Additionally, Diana is survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews, who were close to her heart, and loved her dearly. Diana is also survived by her sister, Linda Dieter, Kleinfeld, Norman Olsson (Peggy), Victor Olsson.
She is predeceased by her parents, Alma, Cecelia Olsson, and Olaf, Anton Olsson, as well as brothers, Edward Olsson, and Leonard Olsson.
Lastly, we’d like to give thanks to Dr. Cody Nelson of Raymond and Raymond Home Care nurses, CBI and Bridge Home Care staff for their long-time dedicated care to Diana’s health. With regards to her most recent battle, Diana was lovingly cared for by Drs. Spence and Walsh and other physicians, nurses and staff of the Chinook Regional Hospital ICU department.
Diana touched the hearts of all that she met and she will be greatly missed. Until we meet again, we shall always and forever love you as fiercely as you did us.
A Prayer Vigil will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Monday, March 9, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH – 604 13 Street North, Lethbridge, AB on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11:30 A.M. with Father Kevin Tumback celebrating.
Diana did many hours of volunteer work for the Canadian paraplegic association. An organization that was near and dear to her heart given that she lived boldly with a spinal cord injury for 42 years of her life. In respect to this passionate work, we kindly ask that, for those so inclined, in lieu of flowers, individuals would send a donation to the Spinal Cord Injury Alberta (SCI-AB) organization (QR code provided below).
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
WINGFIELD, Caroline “Carrie” WINGFIELD CAROLINE “CARRIE” EDNA WINGFIELD (née Crozier), passed away peacefully surrounded by family at St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit on the morning of Monday, March 2, 2026 at the age of 80 years.
Carrie was born in Kemptville, ON on June 20, 1945, the middle daughter of Verdun and Margaret Crozier. She spent her childhood in the Village of Oxford Mills going to school, church, taking piano lessons, attending Rideau Hill United Church camp every summer, swimming in the river, raking the maple leaves in the fall, and playing with her older and younger sisters as well as many cousins and friends. She was a member of CGIT and the local 4-H Homemaking Club.
She graduated high school in 1964 and entered the Ottawa Civic Hospital School of Nursing in September 1964 along with her sister Carol… one of two sets of sisters that year, graduating in June 1967. Each student was allowed four guests at graduation but since there was two of them, they were allowed twice the guests.
After graduating, Carrie moved west on the train with three friends in 1969 to Calgary and worked at the Calgary General Hospital in Pediatrics as she loved children.
Soon she met Doug. They married in Oxford Mills United Church on August 23, 1969 and have had a long happy marriage for 56 years. They travelled a lot in the early years of marriage including a trip to Africa and then had two daughters.
Carrie was a wonderful homemaker and continued nursing at a local clinic. Family life included summer camping trips in the mountains – she loved the mountains.
Left to mourn is her husband Doug; two daughters and their families: Sarah (Rob) Thompson and their daughter Allison; and Teresa (Darcy) Richardson and their sons, Clancy and Kelly; two sisters: Carol (Gary) Brown and their family – and Cheryl Page and her family; sister-in-law Barb Wallace and her family; and brother-in-law Robert and Yvonne Jacobs and their family. Also left to mourn are several nephews, a niece, cousins, extended family, and many friends including nursing friends near and far.
A Celebration of Carrie’s life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 12:00 noon with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating. The Celebration will also be live-streamed and may be viewed through Carrie’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit (covenanthealth.ca/donate) or a charity of your choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
SHIPLEY, Ralph SHIPLEY RALPH WESLEY SHIPLEY, beloved husband of Mary Shipley of Magrath, Alberta, passed away in Raymond, Alberta on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the age of 85 years.
He was predeceased by his son, Steven (Laura) Shipley. He will be missed by his children Connie (Maze) Hobeyn, Darla (Darin) Justik, MayAnn (Michael) Pilling, Dayna (Jim) Blumel, Shoo Passey, Dean (Joci) Passey, Ginger (Wade) Moss. He was loved by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
No funeral service will be held.
Family will gather and celebrate Ralph’s life at a later date.
To send condolences please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
BENNETT, Michael MICHAEL R. BENNETT 1941 – 2026 Mr. Michael Bennett, of Lethbridge, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at St. Michael’s Health Centre at the age of 85 years.
On January 8, 1941, Michael was born in Lethbridge and raised in Coalhurst. Michael graduated from the University of Lethbridge with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Michael worked for the Province of Alberta in both the Agriculture and Environment Departments for over 35 years.
Michael had volunteered on many boards during his working and retired years. Some of the many boards included the Chinook Regional Hospital Board, Alberta Credit Union Central Board, Alberta 55+ Games, and many years on the Nordbridge Senior Citizens Association Board.
Michael enjoyed travelling with his wife Diane all over the world, including many places in Europe, China, and Africa. Michael also enjoyed cooking which he did regularly for the family and volunteered many hours in the Nordbridge Senior Restaurant.
A favorite hobby of Michael’s was card playing, which he would do as often as possible. He played all the card games from poker to bridge and cribbage to whist.
Michael is survived by his two children Robert (Melanie) Bennett and Susan Bennett; brother-in-law Terrence Leahey; brother-in-law Edward Truelove and his children Debra, Darren, and Cheryl; four grandchildren Amy, Samantha (Brad), Danielle (Teran), and Michael; and great-granddaughter Annabelle.
Michael has been predeceased by his wife Diane, parents Arthur & Eva Bennett, sister Delma Truelove, and parents-in-law Alfred & Evelyn Leahey.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to may donate to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice in Michael’s memory.
A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, March 14, 2026, at ARCHMOUNT CEMETERY, 2710 Westside Drive W, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BENNETT, Michael PATRICIA CAROL FUNK 1945 ~ 2026 It is with deep sadness and heartfelt love that the family of Patricia Carol Funk announces her passing on March 3, 2026, in Lethbridge, at the age of 80 years.
Patricia was a devoted mother, grandmother, partner, and loyal friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew her. Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her cherished grandchildren. She delighted in their stories, celebrated their achievements, and created lasting memories through simple, meaningful moments spent together.
She is lovingly remembered by her sons Terry Funk (Sue Ashby), Jeff (Jayna) Funk, Darren (Claire) Funk; grandchildren Melissa (Tyler) Wenger, Ryan Funk, Emily Funk, Madden Funk; and her beloved partner, Ernie Wolski. Patricia’s love and guidance will continue to live on through each of them.
She was predeceased by her husband, Donald Funk; her parents, John (Jack) Dow and Olive (Irene) Dow; and she now rests peacefully reunited with them.
Patricia treasured time with her friends and enjoyed many happy hours playing cards, working on puzzles, and sharing laughter around the table. In her younger years, she embraced adventure and even took to the skies, reflecting her spirited and capable nature. Whether enjoying a quiet afternoon game or a lively family gathering, she brought joy, grace, and a gentle strength to every setting.
A private memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, Patricia requested that donations be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital in gratitude for the care and compassion shown.
Patricia will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her unwavering love, steady presence, and the countless lives she enriched.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
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