Obituaries
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Lola Babiarz, passed away in Taber on Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at the age of 83 years. She is survived by her son Rick (Gloria) Ilczynski; grandchildren Shaun (Corrie), Brad, Jason (Sher Kelly); great grandchildren Kinley, Ally & Sydney, all of Taber. A private family Funeral Service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, May 21, 2010 with Reverend Patrick Furtado SAC officiating.
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Derrill’s battle with cancer ended on May 17, 2010 and God set him free to ride the open range once again and maybe even to do a little fishing and hunting along the way. Derrill will be greatly missed by his children Brian (Colleen) Bennett of Lloydminster, Roberta (Glenn) Meyer of Hanna, Connie (John) Roche of Medicine Hat and Gordon (Koreen) Bennett of Ft. Saskatchewan; grandchildren Derrill (Kari), Tenille (Jeremy), Steven (Jenny), Shane, Lee, Jonathan, Matthew, and Jacob and great grandchildren, Carson and Paige. He is also survived by an aunt, Leah Asplund of Picture Butte; two sisters, Connie (Earl) Grigor of Barnwell, Hazel Bennett of Calgary; brother Gary Bennett of Calgary; brother-in-law George Frank of Tonasket, Washington; former brother-in-law Johnny Fettig and by many extended family members and friends. Derrill was born on August 29, 1928 in Taber where he was raised and his many long time friends there remained important to him. He shared many stories and fond memories of growing up with sisters Connie and Burna (deceased) while living with his beloved grandmother & grandfather Godfrey while his Mom, Vilda Quaife (deceased) worked. At a young age he loved horses and became a real cowboy working on ranches in the area and beyond, welcoming the opportunity to visit his Dad Ennis (deceased) and stepmother Carol (deceased) in Black Diamond. Taber is where he met Rosella Filgas (deceased) who became the love of his life. Once married he obtained a job with Chevron Standard Gas; he would stay with that company until his retirement. Derrill loved his years in the oil and gas industry particularly the early years spent in the Patricia, Alberta area. During his many years with Chevron, he and Rosella and children were transferred throughout Alberta. He was also predeceased by a sister in infancy, Trudy Quaife and two brothers-in-law, Jack Myre and Walter Jensen. Derrill and Rosella were living in Ft. Saskatchewan at the time of his retirement and sadly at the time of Rosella’s sudden death. Unsettled, Derrill then moved to Glendon, Alberta, closer to Al Blair, friend and fellow hunting and fishing enthusiast. The two of them had many a travel adventure going as far as Alaska. Glendon was a good choice as he met neighbors George & Gloria Cotton, becoming great friends with them. Healthy as a horse all his life, he was shocked to have cancer slow him down. This forced Derrill to move to Medicine Hat and live with youngest daughter Connie and her family. This life changing adjustment was made easier for everyone by his positive attitude and the humor and kind heart of his son-in-law, John Roche. The two formed a special bond and kept each other on their toes. Weekly visits by Madeline & Richard Campbell were always looked forward to, not to mention the home made cinnamon buns Madeline would bring. Derrill was also extremely fortunate to join the Living Fit Program at the YMCA. He could not say enough about Pat Schafer, program facilitator and the other members there. The care and concern of Dr. Trudeau, the nurses, and all the staff at the Medicine Hat Cancer Clinic, as well as the Palliative Care Unit was exceptional, as was that of his family physicians, Dr. Hirsch and Dr. Best. Derrill thought himself truly blessed to have all this in his life right up to the time of his death. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, May 21, 2010 between 4:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Richard Campbell officiating. A private family burial service will follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Derrill’s name may be made directly to the YMCA of Medicine Hat (Living Fit Program), 150 Ash Avenue SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 3A9 or to the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital (Palliative Care Unit), 666 - 5 Street SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4H6.
"GONE FISHING" Ado Armondo Bertie, beloved husband of Ollie Bertie of Taber, passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at the age of 83 years. Besides his loving wife Ollie, Ado is survived by his children Monalie (Dennis) Nessman of Calgary and their children Chad and Ryan (Deena); Tom Bertie of Taber and his children Aaron, Michael, Kevin and their mother Monica Basque; Michelle (Brian) Holthe of Taber and their children Brett (Tamara), Mark, Ty and Chase; Mark (Michelle) Bertie of Calgary and his son Jordan; Nanette (Ernest) Dupont of Taber and their children Spencer (Crista) Valgardson and Lace Dupont; three great grandchildren Emily, Ryder and Tatum. He was predeceased by his father Tom Mancini, mother Silvia Mancini, brother Freddie and sisters Amanda (Hubert) Pyne, Laura (Gordon) Tolton and Lillian Bertie. Ado was born May 19, 1926 in Coalhurst. When he was six years of age, the family moved to Taber where he resided the rest of his life. In 1949, Ado married Olive Duncan and they would have celebrated their sixty first wedding anniversary on May 3, 2010. As a young man, Ado took over the family businesses, the Palace Hotel in Taber and the Royal Hotel in Burdett and together with Ollie, they ran the businesses until their sale. When he was younger, Ado was an avid curler, golfer and fisherman. In later years, he loved to spend time on his boat “The Ado Ollie” fishing the Kootneys, always waiting to catch the illusive big one he named “Walter”. Ado was an excellent gardner, taking special pride in his tomatoes. He enjoyed creating his own recipes in the kitchen. Ado was famous for his Italian specialties and less famous for his banana prune cream pie. He dearly loved his parrot Kelly and she would often sit perched on his knee as he watched television from his recliner. A private family funeral service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 17, 2010 with Reverend Mr. Cliff Bogdan officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Ado’s name may be made directly to STARS, 1441 Aviation Park NE, PO Box 570, Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7.
Joan Shirley Brooks, beloved wife of John Brooks of Lethbridge, passed away at the St. Michael’s Health Centre on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at the age of 78 years. Joan walked through life with exceptional grace and dignity and considered her 60 year marriage and her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to be her most treasured legacy. Besides her loving husband John, Joan is survived by her children Dale (Sherry) Brooks of Lethbridge, Janet (Lloyd) McDonnell of Warner, Brett (Catharine) Brooks of Lethbridge and Susan (Harvey) Labuhn of Lethbridge; grandchildren Dawneen (Colin) Cartwright, Shawna (Shawn) Busch, Darcy (Quentin) Reider, Billy (Jody) McDonnell, John Brooks and Tracey (Tom) Baxter; great grandchildren Blake, Chloe Jo, Daelynn, Jared, Jaxson, Kennedy, Jordon, Dakota and Dylon. She is also survived by her brothers Wayne (Lois) Currie and Bryan (Laurie) Currie; sisters-in-law Anne McMillan, Joyce (Bill) Thomas and by numerous loving nieces, nephews and many life long friends. She was predeceased by an infant brother Richard Currie, parents Boyd & Clara Currie and grandson Mark Brooks. Always ready for the next adventure, Joan travelled to many wonderful places including England, Scotland and Puerto Rico. She had an exceptional fondness for Norway where her maternal grandparents came from. She passed on many treasured Scandinavian recipes and customs to her children and the Christmas table (Julebordet) was always overflowing with lefse and krumkake on a beautifully set table. Joan absolutely loved Hawaii, especially the music and she was blessed to have visited there on many occasions. She enjoyed spending time in nature and was very fond of the cabin at St. Mary’s, Montana and vacations in Bigfork, Montana when her children were young. The stories of Joan waterskiing behind their ski boat are legendary in the family because she was always game even though she had never bothered to learn to swim! In later years she enjoyed time spent at the cottage at Beauvaius Lake and trips to Whitefish, Bigfork, Fort McMurray, Waterton and numerous Scandinavian festivals in Minot, North Dakota. Joan was always eager to hop in the car and go shopping or meet for lunch but more than anything she loved to go on road trips with her husband John. In good weather they could often be found parked on a bluff overlooking the river at Grassy Lake eating a picnic lunch and watching for wildlife. A devoted wife and mother, Joan lived a rich, full, giving life and always had a kind word for everyone. A quiet and humble person, she had a joyful sense of humour and a stoic attitude towards adversity. Her piano remained a constant comfort in her life and she had a natural talent for it and served for many years as the pianist for the Order of the Royal Purple in Warner. True to her nature, Joan never sought out the limelight and was content to roll up her sleeves and do what needed to be done – which included the dedicated care of her own mother Clara, who lived until she was 105 years of age. A private family Burial Service was held in the Brooks family plot at the Prairieview Cemetery, Grassy Lake with Reverend Lois Punton of the Southminster United Church in Lethbridge, officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Joan’s name may be made directly to the St Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit, 1400 - 9 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4V5. Joan’s unwavering faith sustained her and her family is grateful for the support she received throughout her illness and would especially like to thank the entire Palliative Care Team who were so dedicated to Joan’s physical comfort and spiritual well being.
Phyllis Irene Baker (nee Anderson), beloved wife of the late Alma Richards Baker, passed away in Lethbridge on Friday, March 5, 2010 at the age of 88 years. She is survived by her children Lee (Shirley) Baker of Barnwell, James (Leena) Baker of Salt Lake City, Utah, Lynn Baker of Barnwell, Bonnie (Mark) Weber of Oakville, Ontario, Debbie (Scott) Wood of La Verne, California and Kelly (Mary Ann) Baker of Calgary; thirty two grandchildren, seventy great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. Phyllis is also survived by her sisters-in-law Carma Anderson and Joan Anderson; and her step brother Reed Jensen. Besides her husband Alma, she was predeceased by her parents Hillman and Myrl Anderson; step father Einar Jensen; brothers Melvin, Kenneth, Marlin and Dennis Anderson; sisters-in-law Rachel Anderson and Dorothy Anderson. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family in the Relief Society Room of the Church prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 10:40 A.M. on Friday, March 12, 2010. The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Barnwell on Friday, March 12, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Bishop Eric Jensen conducting. Burial to follow at the Barnwell Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Phyllis’ name may be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, Box 2211, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4K7 or to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 210D, 12 ‘A’ Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 2J1.
Hugo Bartz, beloved husband of Edna Bartz of Taber, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at the age of 81 years. Besides his loving wife Edna, Hugo is survived by two sons Harry and Zigmund both of Kelowna and two adopted sons Arnold of Germany, Victor of Kelowna and by their families; Edna’s daughter Janet (Bruce) Stetar of Dubai and her children Scott Henry, Tyler Henry, Ryan (Nanae) Henry and their children John & Shakinah all of Medicine Hat. He is also survived by his brothers Art of Calgary, Archie of Taber, Willy of Raymond and Harry of Edmonton and their families. He was predeceased by a brother Alfred. Hugo was born July 6, 1928 in Arzis, Akerman, Romania to Adolf & Eva Bartz. He immigrated to Canada in 1955 and eventually settled in Taber where he was self employed as a stucco mason. In 1993 Hugo married Edna and they have resided in Taber until the time of his passing. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Junior’s Diner, 5114 - 46 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 1:00 P.M.
Edward George Beler of Hays, passed away in Lethbridge on Friday, January 8, 2010 at the age of 68 years. Edward is survived by his mother Clara Beler of Hays, two brothers, Clarence Beler (Suzanne Sirias) of Lethbridge and Anthony Beler of Hays. He was predeceased by his father John Beler. Edward was born on September 10, 1941 in Bracken, Saskatchewan. The Beler family moved to Hays in 1953. Edward decided to complete grade twelve back in Val Marie, Saskatchewan where he resided with his Aunt Kate. Following graduation, Edward was employed with McLeod’s Hardware Store Headquarters in Winnipeg, doing inventory. He travelled throughout North America both for business and pleasure. He loved his cars and was always up to date with the latest makes, models and trends. By the mid nineties, Edward began dialysis. This eventually brought him back to Hays to be closer to his family. Even in the face of great physical difficulties, Edward kept his positive attitude, his wonderful sense of humour and his “gift of the gab”. More importantly, he never lost his faith or his personal relationship with the Lord. Edward will be missed by all who knew him. He enriched the lives of so many. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 324 - 2 Avenue North, Vauxhall on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Vauxhall on Monday, January 11, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Patrick Furtado SAC, Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Edward’s name may be made directly to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, 438 - 10 Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 2C7.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother and grandmother, Mary McCarthur Balcom who passed away at the Bow Island Health Centre on Saturday, January 2, 2010 at the age of 85 years following a lengthy illness. Mary leaves to cherish her memory, her children and grandchildren - son Harry (Coral) Balcom and their children RaeAnn (Ron) Milligan and Corey Balcom of Kimberley; son Wynn (Barb) Balcom and their daughters Kim May and Jaime (Chad) Demott of Kimberley; daughter Lynda (Ken) Dortman and their daughters Ashley Dortman (Shane) and Rachel Dortman of Kamloops; daughter Janice Hryciuk (Joe Pendry) and her children Michael, Byron, Kaitlyn and Kayla Hryciuk of Bow Island. She is also survived by her great grandchildren and her nieces Agnes Komerevich of Kelowna and Maureen McClelland of Cranbrook. She was predeceased by her husband Cy Balcom. Mary was born in Fernie on April 21, 1924. She lived a full life doing many wonderful things, a few of which were was spending time with grandchildren, shopping with her daughters and spending time with her close friend Linda Nelson. She loved giving Darla and the staff in the Long Term Care wing of the Bow Island Health Centre a rough time. Mary had a way of talking her friend Aaron from the kitchen to bring her a pizza every week. Mary resided in Kimberley until just a few years ago when she moved to Bow Island to be closer to Janice. She will be sadly missed but fondly remembered. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 139 - 2 Avenue West, Bow Island on Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Sheila McLeod officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Mary’s name may be made directly to the Bow Island Health Centre (Long Term Care), P.O. Bag 3990, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0.
Donald Vernon Bigelow, beloved husband and best friend of his wife Audrey Bigelow, passed away peacefully at the Taber Extendicare on Thursday, December 17, 2009 at the age of 79 years. Don was born in Taber on March 7, 1930 to Murrell and Daisy Bigelow. He married Audrey Odland, his loving wife of 49 years on June 30, 1961. Besides his wife Audrey, he is survived by his brother Albert and sister June Larsen both of Taber; sister-in-law Rachael Bigelow of Cranbrook, British Columbia and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Murrell and Daisy Bigelow; brother Cyril “Cy”; brother-in-law Peter Larsen; sister-in-law Marjorie; nephew Terry Kay. Although we will miss him greatly we take comfort in knowing he is at peace from his courageous battle with his illness. The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Harry Unger and Pastor Ron Gartly officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Don’s name may be made directly to the Taber & District Health Foundation (Extendicare), 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9.
Romans 8:38,39 “Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus our Lord.” Jacobje Bouwman, beloved wife of the late Ben Bouwman, went home to her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at the age of 78 years. She dedicated her life to her family, friends and church. Joan was born April 2, 1931 in St. Anne Parochie, Friesland, the Netherlands. She immigrated with her family to Canada in July 1951 and made her home in and around the Vauxhall area. She is survived by her children Robert Bouwman and Christine (Hendrik) Van Dyk; three grandchildren, one great grandchild and her sister Teresa (Pieter) de Graaf. Also left to mourn are her sisters-in-law Shirley Vander Ploeg and Alice Vander Ploeg. She was a very special auntie to numerous nieces and nephews. Joan is also survived by her husband’s family, brothers and sisters Annie (John) Nieuwenhuis, Ted (Hennie) Bouwman, Herman (Claudette) Bouwman, Agnes (Menno) Klunder, Uilke (Wynne) Bouwman, Jacob (Dorothy) Bouwman, and sister-in-law Nancy Bouwman. Joan was predeceased by her husband Ben; brothers Jan and Harry Vander Ploeg and brother-in-law Rudy Bouwman. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, November 13, 2009 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. A private family Burial Service will be held at the Vauxhall Cemetery prior to the funeral service with Pastor Ken Easterbrook officiating. The Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 3902 Heritage Drive, Taber on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Jim Zondervan officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Joan’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 2J1 or to the Clearview Lodge, 4730 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N6. The family would like to thank the hospital staff and the staff and residents at the Clearview Lodge for their loving care.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gail Alberta Bailie (nee Edwards) in Calgary on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at the age of 68 years. Gail is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Donald; sons Guy, Doug and Craig; daughter Lisa; grandchildren David and Sydney. She is also survived by her brothers Harold (Irene) Edwards and their children Michel (Daniel) and Brad; Keith Edwards (Katie Martha) and children Rhonda (Ken), Kevin (Angie) and Dustin. She was predeceased by her parents Lawrence and Alberta Edwards; brother Wayne and by her daughter-in-law Lynn Warden. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, November 6, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Sandra Riddell officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gail’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street, South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2M7.
On September 14, 2009 after a brief illness, God called home to glory his child Jacobus Bareman, at the age of 81 years. Jack was born August 17, 1928 to Jan and Cornelia Bareman in Axel, Zeeland, The Netherlands. He was the third of fourteen children. Jack grew up on a small farm and worked for a neighbor when he left school. He immigrated to Canada in 1952. On November 2, 1952 he married Catarina Verschelling, who came to Canada to join him. Jack worked on the Harris farm near Barnwell for many years. He then ventured into farming on his own, first renting land in Cranford before buying a farm in Grassy Lake where he farmed for many years with his sons John and Marion. Jack is survived by his wife of 56 years, Catherine; his children John (Alice) Bareman of Taber, Marion (Jeanette) Bareman of Grassy Lake, Cora (Jerry) Hall of Taber, Ann (Wayne) Veenstra of Taber, Debbie (Derk) Daniels of Taber and Jim (Stephanie) Bareman of Lynden, Washington; twenty eight grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters and nine brothers in Holland. He was predeceased by his parents, two brothers, one grandchild and one great grandchild. Jack was a man of few words but of strong convictions. He was a faithful member of the church and lived by his faith. A private family burial will take place at the Prairie View Cemetery, Grassy Lake, prior to the funeral service. The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Marc Jagt of the Canadian Reformed Church officiating. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at www.southlandfuneral.com. Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
Elwood Bryant, beloved husband of Shirley Bryant of Vauxhall, passed away in Lethbridge on Thursday, August 27, 2009 at the age of 76 years. Besides his loving wife Shirley, he is survived by his children Coreen (Terry) Unruh of Hays, Ellen Bryant of Calgary, Joy (Randy) Trieber of Taber and Darren (Jackie) Bryant of Lethbridge; grandchildren Justin and Dalyce Unruh; Jordyn and Danielle Bryant; great grandchildren Branden and Payton. He is also survived by his siblings Allan Bryant, Norma (Dennis) Reynolds, Jerry (Barb) Bryant, Walter (Donna) Bryant and Ross (Colleen) Bryant; sisters-in-law Helen Bryant, Connie Bryant-Kyle and Fay Martin; aunts Verna Bryant and Ruth MacGregor as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Sydney and Elma Bryant; brothers Vern, Ken and Harold; sister-in-law Elsie Bryant; brother-in-law Max Martin. Elwood was born September 24, 1932 in Turin, Alberta to Sydney and Elma Bryant. He was raised and educated in the Vauxhall-Retlaw area. Elwood married Shirley Horton on September 22, 1956. He retired from the B.R.I.D. in 1988. Elwood's greatest love in life was his grandchildren. In his spare time he enjoyed wood working. Elwood was also involved for many years with the Lions club. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, August 30, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Vauxhall Mennonite Brethren Church, 320 - 9 Street North, Vauxhall on Monday, August 31, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Alana Johnson officiating. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Elwood’s name may be made directly to the Parkview United Church, Box 16, Vauxhall, Alberta T0K 2K0 or to the Vauxhall Public Library, Box 265, Vauxhall, Alberta T0K 2K0.
Harold Arthur Benson, beloved husband of Lois Benson of Taber, passed away peacefully in Lethbridge with his family at his side on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at the age of 87 years. He is survived by his loving wife Lois; children Wanda (Adam) Andreas of Edmonton, Owen Benson of Coaldale, Deb (Ib) Simonsen of Picture Butte, Elmer Benson (Laurel) of Dunmore; daughter-in-law Nola Benson of Lethbridge; grandchildren Jason McNiven, Corey McNiven (Renee), Evan Andreas, Shannon (Doug) Schmidt, Joy Andreas (Ryan), Devin Benson, Curtis Benson, Brie Simonsen, Casey Simonsen, Sandra, Brett and Desirae Eremenko; great grandchildren Taylor, Jayden, Cayley and Chloe. Harold is also survived by his brothers Fred and Irvin; sister Eda (Ted) Nordwick; sister-in-law Margaret Benson as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Harry and Dorothy Benson; sons Warren and Craig; brothers Isaac and Barney; sisters Hilma, Ruth and Doris; son-in-law Victor Klemen. Harold was born on February 14, 1922 in Darmody, Saskatchewan. He served with the Lord Strathcona’s Horse Royal Canadian Tank Division from 1943 to 1946. Harold and Lois were married on November 7, 1952 and eventually bought land in Hays where they raised their six children. He retired from farming in 1989 and moved to Taber. During the last twenty years he has enjoyed his family, friends, A & W coffee time, Sunday morning brunch with friends and cards, cards and more cards. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Friday, July 24, 2009 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at 2:30 P.M. with Reverend Aldeen McKay officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Harold’s name may be made directly to S.T.A.R.S., 1441 Aviation Park N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7.
Dorothy Joyce Broderson (nee Westwong), beloved wife of the late Ervin Frank Broderson, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in Lethbridge on Sunday, July 12, 2009 at the age of 78 years. She is survived by her children Hal Broderson of Vauxhall, Holly (Ewald) Zaiser of Taber, Lanny Broderson (Sara Klassen) of Vauxhall, Rick (Linda) Broderson of Lethbridge, Ralph Broderson of Vauxhall, Heather (Kelvin) Wright of Vauxhall and Colleen Ecklund (Andy Mosby) of Bellevue; grandchildren Tammy (Ryan) Rombough, Tracy (Larry) Kiss, Jason Zaiser, Melissa (Bryce) Carlsen, Jennifer Broderson, Joyce Broderson, Carlee Hayden, Taylor Broderson, Korbin Broderson, Kyle Wright (Danyae Hobberstad), Tyler Wright; great grandchildren Jaidee, Tori and Jazlynn Rombough; Logan, Tyran and Ryler Kiss; Talaina Carlsen. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Ethel Broderson and Gertie Westwong as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Ervin Frank Broderson; son Harlen Broderson; parents Ralph and Leita Westwong; sister Leita Broderson; brother Dick Westwong; aunt “Bud” Clara Stevenson. Dorothy was born in Medicine Hat on October 25, 1930. She was raised in the New West area north east of Circle Hill. She was educated in Enchant and Vauxhall and attended nursing school at the Galt School of Nursing. Dorothy met Ervin Broderson and they were married November 6, 1953. They raised eight children on a farm near Vauxhall. Aside from raising her children, Dorothy worked for the P.F.R.A. for a number of years and then worked for the Taber School Division until her retirement in 1991. Dorothy enjoyed gardening, flowers, going camping with her family, especially with her grandchildren who meant the world to her. She also enjoyed visiting her friends at the Legion, playing in crib tournaments, curling and loved to dance. Dorothy was a member of T.O.P.S. and graduated to K.O.P.S. Dorothy and Ervin moved to Lethbridge in 2001 where she has resided until her passing. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Vauxhall Mennonite Brethren Church, 320 - 9 Street North, Vauxhall on Thursday, July 16, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. with Reverend Alana Johnson officiating. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Dorothy’s name may be made directly to either the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 207, 542 - 7 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2H1, the Alberta Lung Association, Box 4500, Station South, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6K2 or The Lethbridge Society for Meals on Wheels in care of the Pemmican Lodge, 102 - 5 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0S9.
Marinus “Morris” Braat, beloved husband of Sjaan “Jane” Braat, father of Karen (Jeff) McCallum of Lethbridge and Clary (Mike) Fox of Calgary and Opa of Justin, Gillian, Deanna and Luke, passed away in Bow Island on Thursday, March 5, 2009 at the age of 77 years. He is also survived by his brothers, John (Bep) Braat, Peter (Mildred) Braat, Jake (Shirley) Braat, Fritz (Lisa) Braat, Casey (Katie) Braat, and sister Ann (Hank) Koot. He was predeceased by his parents Jacobus and Johanna Braat, and his brother Gerry and sister Joke. Morris was born April 11, 1931 in Het Schyf, Holland. He, along with his family, immigrated to Southern Alberta in 1953 to fulfill his dream of owning his own farm. In 1959 he returned to Holland and met the love of his life Sjaan Vissers, whom he married July 23, 1960. Morris farmed in Coaldale until 1969 before moving his family to the farm in Bow Island, February 28, 1970. The farm in Bow Island fulfilled his dream to farm independently and successfully. He loved to see things grow and grow abundantly. He couldn’t wait to get out into the field in the spring and more often than not required a tow out of a wet spot. Farming was a source of pride until the end of his life. He never considered retirement, rather continued to farm including a seeded winter wheat crop waiting for the spring 2009 thaw. Above all, a happy and close family meant the most to Morris. He was very proud of his daughters’ accomplishments and very involved in their lives. He welcomed their husbands, making them feel special and a part of the family. He dearly loved his grandchildren, who added another layer of joy to his already enriched life. Opa always had four toonies in his pocket. For nineteen years, Morris and Jane found their oasis in the desert. They looked forward to their winter escapes in Arizona each year. Those years were truly happy - golfing and socializing with good friends. Morris found his passion restoring antique Farmall tractors. He could take a seized engine of a tractor, long abandoned in a field and restore it to its former glory. Morris also became an avid flower gardener. He planted hundreds of gladiolus every spring in order to bring bundles of fresh flowers to his cherished wife Sjaan. He designed a greenhouse out of an old stock rack to start his bedding out plants each spring. Morris loved golfing at the Bow Island Golf Course. He particularly enjoyed the senior golf mornings and of course - coffee with his friends afterwards. In recent years, he really enjoyed his coffee buddies. Morris was highly regarded by everyone he met. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed something. He possessed a gentle friendliness and always made people feel welcome. He had a way of putting others before himself. He was always genuinely interested in how you were doing. He sustained this quality right until the end of his life living out his motto “Be Kind to Each Other”. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 1113 - 1 Street East, Bow Island on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at 7:30 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 1113 - 1 Street East, Bow Island on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Fred Monk Celebrant. A private Family Burial to follow at the Bow Island Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Morris’ name may be made directly to Bow Island Emergency Services, Box 1127, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0.
Catherine Anne Brown passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2009 with her family surrounding her at the age of 70 years. Mom leaves behind her beloved husband of 49 years, Rex; four sons Ronald, Robert, Joseph (Ronda) and Dennis (Sharlene); four granddaughters Keely, Dacey, Emma and Abby, who will also miss her deeply. Catherine is also survived by her brother Jim (Gerry) Rutherford. Mom was predeceased by both her parents Annie and George Rutherford; siblings Agnes, Jean “Dirk”, Joseph and Margaret. Catherine was born April 8, 1938 in Taber. She married Rex in 1960 in Taber and settled in Calgary by 1967. After raising two special needs sons and two more busy boys, she found time to volunteer and canvas with many charitable organizations. She was also an active member of the Women of the Moose and the Airdrie Over 50 Club. This continued right up until she became ill. Reading, computer researching of genealogy and spending time with her grandchildren were very important to Mom. The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Friday, March 6, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Frank Lewis officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Catherine’s name may be made directly to the Autism, 174, 3359 - 27 Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T1Y 5E4 or to the Foothills Country Hospice Society, Box 274, Okotoks, Alberta T1S 1A5.
Mrs. Margaret “Peg” Wilson Broadfoot of Taber, was reunited with her beloved husband William “Bill” Broadfoot on Thursday, January 29, 2009 at the age of 93 years. Peg was born the daughter of James and Sarah Rennie on February 18, 1915 in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. The Rennie family moved to the coast before settling back in Alberta to be closer to family. Following high school, Peg studied at Medicine Hat General Hospital for nurses training, graduating in 1940. Peg served as a nurse during WWII and was very proud to be assigned to attend to Allied P.O.W.s at Guy’s Hospital in London, England. Returning home to Bassano she met Bill and the two were married on a blazing hot day in August of 1947. They eventually found a home in Taber where they raised their two children, Douglas and Anne. Following Bill’s passing Peg moved to Lethbridge where she happily lived out her final years under Anne’s loving care. Peg was an active member of Knox United Church for many years. Her joys in life included her magnificent garden, hours spent over crossword and jigsaw puzzles, sewing Barbie dresses, and baking, especially her famous “Nana buns.” Peg and Bill loved travelling and spent many wonderful days together around the world. Nana reveled in spending time with the family and was always overjoyed to hear about her Grandchildren’s many accomplishments, and “Super Nana” cherished her great-gran’s Peyton and Brett. Although she suffered from Alzheimer’s disease she remained a loving and content person right till her passing. Peg leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Anne Margaret Cseke of Lethbridge and her children Tyler, Logan, Colby, and Rennie; her son Douglas William Broadfoot of Taber and his sons Dugan and Ryan; her sister Ethel Mary Dunn of Lethbridge; her great grandchildren Peyton and Brett; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Besides her Husband Bill, Peg was predeceased by her parents James and Sarah Rennie, her brother Jim and his wife Lettye, her brother Robert, her sister Barbra, twin daughters in 1948, and her brother-in-law Robert Dunn. The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Monday, February 2, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Frank Lewis officiating. If friends so desire memorial tributes in Peg’s name may be made directly to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta, 402, 740 - 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0N9.
Elizabeth Margaret Brown of Taber, passed away in Taber on Thursday, December 18, 2008 at the age of 44 years. Liz was born July 4, 1964 in England. She immigrated to Canada with her parents, sister and brother in 1973. Liz was proud of her Scottish heritage and people always inquired about her accent. Liz’s life was enriched with her involvement in her church - so many caring friends and mentors. She loved the ladies at Curves who were always on her side encouraging her. The “girls” at the Rex Cafe were a highlight for Liz. You made her so happy. Thank you so much girls. Left to cherish Liz’s memory are one sister Kathy (Steve) Yarich of Grassy Lake; a brother Doug (Angie) Brown of Edmonton; niece Sheri (Harvey) Petersen of High Prairie; great nieces Ocean and Destiny; great nephews Courtland, Sam and Ben; cousins Jim (Alma) Brown of Grassy Lake and their family Mark (Clarrissa) Brown of Taber, Scott (Ronda) Brown of Grassy Lake and the little ones Mercedes, Mackenzie, Freedom and Xadyn. Liz was predeceased by her mother Margaret Brown in 1999 and her father William Brown in 2004. The Funeral Service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006-48 Ave., Taber on Monday, December 29, 2008 at 10:30 A.M.
Julia Christine (nee Lukacs) Beres passed away peacefully in Taber on Monday, December 15, 2008 at the age of 92 years. She was born Julia Hagen in Battle Lake, Alberta on January 9, 1916. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Robert Lukacs in 1958, son Gerald (2 1/2 years old) in 1958, son Darrell Lukacs in 2005, granddaughter Shelley Lyle and grandson Calvin Wyse and son-in-law George Miller. She was also predeceased by her parents, three brothers and one sister. Julia is survived by her children Jean Zarski of Camrose, Florence Miller of Taber, Shirley Wyse of Red Deer, Bob (Sharon) Lukacs of Vauxhall, Ernie (Erika) Lukacs of Taber, Philip (Sandra) Lukacs of Lethbridge; nineteen grandchildren; forty three great grandchildren; eighteen great great grandchildren and one great, great, great grandchild. The Hagen family moved to Wetaskiwin where Julia started school at the King Edward School. In 1933 Julia met and later married Robert Lukacs in Retlaw where they made their first home. In 1941 Robert became a grain buyer and elevator operator in Retlaw where he worked until he passed away in February of 1958. Her family was the love of her life. Julia loved to be around the family, especially her grandchildren. Julia was the ultimate homemaker, always cooking, baking, canning and sewing. One of her favorite past times was playing cards and bingo. Julia sold her home in 1989 and moved to Pioneer Place where she enjoyed many years of friendship with her neighbours and also went on a few bus trips. In October 1998 she had two massive strokes which left her unable to speak. With a great deal of therapy she was able to regain some of the feeling in her arms and legs and did walk again with the aide of a walker. She then moved to Clearview Lodge and then to Extended Care at the Taber Health Care Complex. Julia was a member of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Royal Canadian Legion and also a member of the Taber Catholic Women’s League and the Retlaw Sunshine Club. She was and is dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Relatives and friends are invited for Prayers at the Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber on Friday, December 19, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. with Reverend Mariusz Sztuk SDS Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden.
Cornelius (Cor) Anthony Bos, beloved husband of Margie Bos, passed away at home on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at the age of 55 years. Cor was born the eldest son of Cornelia and Pieter Bos in Moordrecht, Holland on March 3, 1953, the Bos family immigrated to Ontario in 1967. He married his best friend Margie Jagt on April 5, 1980 in Clinton, Ontario and was blessed to be the father of their three children, Angela, Jennifer and Casey. In September 1980 Cor and Margie moved to Alberta where they raised their family and made many special friends. Besides his wife Margie, he is also survived by his children Angela (Casey) Vander Ploeg of Airdrie, Jennifer Bos of Calgary and Casey (Shannon) Bos of Taber; grandchildren Cassi, Anissa, Mitchell, Spencer and Maxwell Vander Ploeg and Morgan and Olivia Bos. He also is survived by his mother Cornelia Bos; siblings Ann (Peter) Van Beers, Jane (Casey) Bydevaate, Toni (Peter) Rozendaal all of Taber, Peter (Connie) Bos of Goderich, Ontario, Alice (Henry) Nyman of Wellington, Ontario, Helene (John) Moore of Goderich, Ontario, Arjan (Lora) Bos of Forest, Ontario, and Caroline (Rod) Berg of Churchill, Ontario. He too is survived by his mother in- law, Nan Jagt of Brampton, Ontario as well as Margie’s brother’s, sister and their spouses of Ontario and Michigan. He also is survived by many special nieces and nephews. He loved you all very much. He was predeceased by his father Pieter Bos in 2008, his father-in-law Arend Jagt in 2006 and his brother-in-law Albert Jagt in 2000. Cor was a faithful husband, loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He never considered himself to be better then anyone; he had a gift of making everyone young and old feel comfortable in his presence. He did not mind hard work, he paid careful attention to detail, and he found joy in doing everything just right. He loved to fish and camp in the mountains and also enjoyed vacations down south with Margie. Carpentry was his gift and he was also a farmer at heart. Cor’s 33 year battle with cancer was fought with grace, courage and a strong desire to live. Cancer did not stop him from living a happy, productive life. Each day he was given strength to face what was before him, and he knew this strength came from his Savior, Jesus Christ. He had a wonderful smile even under the most difficult of circumstances and when his body let him down he was not a man who complained. Even though he would have loved to live for many more years, at the end of his life, he accepted that his time had come and he had full confidence that he was going to be with Jesus where there is no more sickness or sorrow. We know we will see him again some day. His was a life well lived. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Wednesday, December 3, 2008 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, corner of Hackney Drive and Highway 36, Taber on Thursday, December 4, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Jim Zondervan officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at www.southlandfuneral.com. Please refrain from the use of perfumes or colognes due to allergies. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Cor’s name may be made directly to the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 - 29 Street N.W., Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N2.
Verna Brown (nee Day) passed away after a lengthy illness at the Taber Continuing Care on Monday, November 17, 2008 at the age of 89 years. Verna was born in Taber on October 2, 1919 to Sadie and Lester Day. She lived her entire life in the Taber area. She married Clarence Henry Brown on September 19, 1940. They farmed in the Purple Springs district until retiring to Taber in 1970. Verna loved her family and really enjoyed getting together with either friends or family. She loved quilting and her children and grandchildren were the recipients of many of these. She is survived by six children Arliss (Ben) Gross, Louiene (Bill) Wright, Bonnie (Harlan) Borggard, Harold (Peggy) Brown, Trudy (Steve) Racz, and Sandra (Fred) Werewka; twenty seven grandchildren, fifty seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Ivan (Frieda) Day; sisters Lenor Edwards and Norine Carlson as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. Verna was predeceased by her parents, husband Clarence in 1986, one infant daughter, one grandson, one-great granddaughter and one great-great-granddaughter, as well as two brothers and three sisters. She will be lovingly remembered and missed by all. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family in the Relief Society room at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, November 20, 2008 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. and again prior to the funeral service on Friday, November 21, 2008 between 9:45 A.M. and 10:45 A.M. The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Friday, November 21, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. with Bishop Mark Baldry conducting. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Verna’s name may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society For Lethbridge and Area, #402, 740 - 4 Avenue, South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0N9 or to the Taber Hospital Foundation (Continuing Care), 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9.