Obituaries
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William George Schmidt, beloved husband of Debra Schmidt, passed away peacefully with his family at his side in Taber on Friday, December 2, 2011 at the age of 77 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, December 8, 2011 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 Friday, December 9, 2011 at 1:00 P.M. with Reverend Sandra Riddell officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Besides his loving wife Deb, Bill is survived by his children Jo-Anne (Conrad) Walburger of Lethbridge, Geri (Sheldon) Virostek of Enchant, Jackie (Fred) Giles of Spruce Grove, Jody Nakamura (Scott Sterr) of Lethbridge, Kevin (Bona) Schmidt of Hays and also by their mother Betty Schmidt; step children Tammy Braithwaite of Ponoka, Marty Ecklund of Blackfalds, Kelly (Chad) Adamkowski of Rocky Rapids; thirty grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Ed (Marlene) Schmidt, Jack Schmidt (Patsy), Violet Wilson, Larry (Caroline) Schmidt, Leonard (Verna) Schmidt; Deb’s mother Kaye Ferguson and brothers and sisters-in-law Lynn (Sally) Ferguson, Brenda (Regg) Engleson, Richard (Anna) Ferguson, Jeannie Ferguson, Heather (Tom) Myndio, Kathy (Rick) Friesen and by numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Herman and Amelia Schmidt; sisters Betty Dillman, Mary Jacobsen and Jeannie Shurtleff; father-in-law Scotty Ferguson, brother-in-law Ronald Wilson and sister-in-law Nora Schmidt. Bill was born in Taber May 15, 1934. He attended Taber Central School until 1943 when the family moved to Penticton, British Columbia, where he finished his schooling. He returned to Taber in 1952 and worked for Wood Motors, later working on the Clarence Jesperson farm. He spent thirty one years working as a Grazing Reserve Manager in Purple Springs and Grassy Lake. He enjoyed working with blonde cattle and he participated in rodeo and horse raceing. Bill married Debra December 20, 1997. He loved camping, fishing, hunting and spending time with his family. In 2009, Bill moved to Taber, residing at the Long Term Care Centre, before moving to the Linden View Care Centre this past summer. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Bill’s name may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society for Lethbridge and Area, 402, 740 - 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0N9.
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Elizabeth Susan Scheibli, beloved wife of the late John Scheibli, passed away in Taber on Monday, November 7, 2011 at the age of 92 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Vincent TuanHa officiating. A private family burial will follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Elsie is survived by her daughter Jo Anne (Dwaine) Turnbull of Taber; two grandchildren Carey Turnbull, Tammy Turnbull and great granddaughter Miranda. She is also survived by a sister-in-law Terry Bacho of Edmonton, numerous nieces and nephews and by the Schaffer family. She was predeceased by her husband John Scheibli; parents Joseph and Susan Bacho; two brothers Bob Bacho, Joe Bacho and sister-in-law Phyllis Bacho. Elsie was born in Hungary May 23, 1919. She married John Scheibli March 10, 1935. Elsie worked for Empress Foods for thirty five years where she made many lifelong friends. She enjoyed cooking, gardening and playing in crib tournaments. She loved music. Elsie enjoyed her daily visits to KFC for coffee. She will be sadly missed and always remembered.
Margaretha Sawatzky, beloved wife of Jacob Sawatzky, passed away in Taber on Thursday, September 22, 2011 at the age of 59 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber, on Sunday, September 25, 2011 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, September 26, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Dave Wiebe officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden.
Gladys Smith of Taber, beloved wife of the late Walter Smith, passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at the age of 89 years. The Funeral Service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Sandra Riddell officiating. Burial to follow at the Foremost Cemetery. Gladys is survived by her children Bonnie Sobchak (Ken Tatebe) of Calgary, Donna (George) Rarick of Foremost, Garry (Mary Ann) Smith of Taber and Larry (Joan) Smith of Taber; grandchildren Kim (Casey) Doyle, Tammy (Cody) Smith, Natalie Streifel, Lisa (Jeremey) Astalos, Ryan (Lindsay) Smith, Julie (Darcy) Kloepper and Christie (Danny) Remfert as well as thirteen great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Walter; brothers Bill Van Maarion and Eugene Van Maarion; sisters Dorothy Tunstall and Ruby Maxwell. Gladys was born at Seven Persons on February 6, 1922 to Case and Violet Van Maarion and attended school at Winnifred. She married Walter Smith on July 17, 1941. Gladys and Walter lived the majority of their married life in Foremost. Walter predeceased Gladys on March 21, 1985. In 1998 Gladys moved to Taber where she has resided until the time of her passing. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gladys’ name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2M7.
Catherine Anne Spence (formerly Bagozzi), passed away in Taber, surrounded by her family on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at the age of 95 years. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, May 20, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Vincent TuanHa, Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Catherine was born in Southbend, Indiana on May 16, 1915, the eldest of four children. She married Guido Bagozzi in 1934 and together they raised four children, Olga (Gabriel) Brissard of Viking; Ray (Mildred) Bagozzi of Vulcan; Evelyn Guhle of Camrose; Marlene (David) Grant of Taber. She will be fondly remembered by fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She is also survived by sister Barbara Konigsbauer of Effingham, Illinois and sister-in-law Andrea Habijanac of Coaldale as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Later in life, Catherine met and married Jim Spence of Taber. She was predeceased by her first husband Guido Bagozzi and her second husband Jim Spence; parents Isodore & Frances Habijanac; two brothers, Rudy and Victor Habijanac; sister-in-law Ann Habijanac; brother-in-law Paul Konigsbauer; son-in-law Arnold Guhle and granddaughter Shannon Guhle. Catherine’s greatest passion was cooking, gardening, knitting and crocheting. Nothing gave her more pleasure than attending family functions and being with family. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Catherine’s name may be made directly to the Taber Hospital Foundation (Palliative Care), 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9.
Rebecca Hope Stevens, beloved wife of Tom Stevens of Hays, passed away unexpectedly at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the age of 56 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber, on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Hays Civic Centre, Hays, Alberta on Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Rod Taylor officiating. Burial to follow at the Hays Cemetery. Besides her loving husband Tom, she is survived by two children and eight grandchildren; her parents Laura Lee of Bassano, Richard (Bev) Klatt of California and her step-father Alex (Marie) Bakay of Calgary as well as her loving brothers, sisters and extended family. Rebecca worked as a home care provider in the Hays area and was dedicated to providing the best and loving care to all of her clients, who became some of her best friends. She loved her grandchildren and spent her life trying to provide them with the most caring and loving home when they spent time with her. Her grandchildren were the most important part of her life. Rebecca will be missed by all and will never be forgotten. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Rebecca’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 426 - 6 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2C9.
Greta Saranchuk passed away in Taber on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at the age of 98 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, January 16, 2011 between 4:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Theodore’s Anglican Church, 5120 - 44 Avenue, Taber on Monday, January 17, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Wil Stonehill officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Greta’s name may be made directly to the St. Theodore’s Anglican Church Memorial Fund, 5120 - 44 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1A9 or to the Alzheimer Society for Lethbridge and Area, 402, 740 - 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0N9. The family would like to thank the nursing staff at the Taber Long Term Care for the years of kindness and compassion shown to Greta while caring for her. May God bless you all.
Lois Margaret Schmidt, loving and devoted wife of the late Wayne "Bud" Schmidt, formerly of Taber, passed away suddenly on Thursday, December 23, 2010 at the age of 89 years. The Funeral Service will be held at the Knox United Church, 4929 – 50 Avenue, Taber on Friday, December 31, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. with Reverend Arij Langstraat officiating. Lois will be dearly missed by her loving and devoted daughter, Kathryn Petrunia and grandchildren Marc, Trent & Eric along with his wife Tiffany and daughter Shea. She is also survived by her sisters Dorothy Engelstad, Shirley Goodfellow, Louise Noble and Phyllis Cumming; her brother John Jespersen; her daughter Eleanor (Gordon) Munkholm of Cochrane and grandchildren Clinton (Jenny), Andrea, Susan, Tanya and great grandchildren, Seamus & Cailean. She will be deeply missed by her “adopted” children Charlie & Helen Arndt and their family. She was predeceased by her husband of sixty five years, Bud; son Ben; parents Chris & Hazel Jespersen; brother David Jespersen and her son-in-law Tom Petrunia. Lois was born July 3, 1921 in Holmquist, South Dakota, the fifth of nine children born to Chris and Hazel Jespersen. She lived her earliest years in South Dakota and her family moved in 1933 to the farm owned by her grandfather, Jorgen “John” Jespersen in the Wadena District south of Taber. She attended Wadena School and most of her high school in Taber, but spent her graduation year in Casper, Wyoming with her Aunt Florence. Lois often reminisced of this time and said that it was the happiest year of her life. Returning to Taber after graduation, she worked at the RCA store and wrote for the Taber Times. On June 16, 1942 she married Bud Schmidt who grew up a half mile up the road from her and they spent the next forty eight years farming together, fishing, shooting and spending time with many family and friends in the Wadena district. In 1990 they moved “into town” and Lois continued to be a devoted wife to Bud until his passing in 2007. She loved music, playing the piano, crocheting and tatting beautiful handicrafts; telling stories and growing the most beautiful geraniums in Taber! She was a dedicated member of Knox United Church, the Eastern Star, the Ladies Aid, the Hospital Auxiliary, the Garden Club and many other community organizations.
Dale William Sekura, beloved husband of Shelly Sekura of Taber and devoted father to Cody, passed away unexpectedly at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge on Sunday, August 1, 2010 at the age of 50 years. Relatives and friends are invited to prayers and tributes at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, August 6, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, August 7, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Ron Gartly officiating. Burial will follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Besides his loving wife Shelly and his son Cody, Dale is survived by his parents Mike and Marion Sekura of Taber; brother Brian (Tracy) Sekura of Vauxhall and their sons Tyler and Bradley (Robyn Knouse); brother Alan (Christine) Sekura of Taber and their children Carol, Eric and Robin. He is also survived by Shelly’s family including her father John Gregus of Taber, her siblings and extended family. Known affectionately as “Gonzo” and “Buckwheat”, Dale was born on September 23, 1959 in Taber on a bright and sunny afternoon. He was a very active child, always climbing the tallest trees or jumping off the roof of the barn, giving his mother more than one grey hair. Dale attended Dr. Hamman Elementary School and W.R. Myers High School, graduating in 1977. As one of his teachers said, “Dale does okay in school, he could do better, but his interests are in other areas”. Dale was first and foremost a family man, devoted to his wife, son, parents, brothers, nephews, nieces and many friends. He enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved hunting big game and looked forward to hunting trips with his dad, brothers and nephews. Dale loved the farm where he grew up and lived. He was proud of the herd of cattle he built up over the years. He told his dad recently that his crop this year was one of the best he has ever grown. He had many friends and was ready to give a helping hand when needed. He will be missed by all who knew him. Dale made sure that Cody learned the way of the farm the safe way, always taking the time to teach him how to do things the right way, like caring for the cattle which Cody helped out with many a time. Dale and Cody had a special bond. Shelly will miss his presence and strength but she and Cody have a lifetime of memories to share for the years to come. There’s a valley waitin’ for him when he finally gets the call and a sunlit mountain meadow with flowers wall to wall. A horse that’s easy ridin’ will carry him I know, to the dizzy heights of glory past the ever present snow. Then a hand will reach to guide him where the grass is stirrup high, for God has need of cowhands in the pastures of the sky.
Gail Ann Somerville, beloved wife of the late Jim Somerville, passed away peacefully in Lethbridge on Friday, July 23, 2010 at the age of 67 years. The Funeral Service will be held at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Bob Wallace officiating. A private family burial service will be held at the Archmount Cemetery. Gail is survived by her sons Dale Somerville (Pam Martens) of Taber, Michael (Christina) Somerville of Calgary, Bruce (Michele) Somerville of Cochrane; daughter Shelley (Michael) Walser of Lethbridge; grandchildren Amber (Ryan), Kristi, Kenny, Ashley, Caitlin, Anika, Linnea, Jared, Mitchel and Taylor. She is also survived by her sisters Frances O’Connor (Eli Karaloff), Kathy Roberts, Joan Landsidel and Susan Bezler; brother Brian (Merle) Ellerman; special extended family Karen (Ken) Martinot and her children Natasha (her son Grayson) and Chad. She was predeceased by her husband James Douglas Somerville; parents Edward and Agnes Ellerman; brother Donald in infancy; brothers-in-law David Roberts, Ken Bezler, Edward O’Connor and Leroy Landsidel. Gail was born April 7, 1943 in Brandon, Manitoba to Edward and Agnes Ellerman. Gail married Jim Somerville on March 24, 1962 in Red Cliff. They resided in Vauxhall and worked on the Okuma and Tashiro farm until 1992 when they retired and moved to Taber. Upon Jim’s passing Gail moved to Lethbridge and resided in the Good Samaritan’s. Gail was a homemaker and volunteered in many functions throughout her life. As a grandmother she loved to visit her grandchildren who were busy with a wide variety of activities and sports. Always supportive and excited, she was interested in every aspect of her children’s and grandchildren’s lives If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gail’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation (please designate for the purchase of a new air bed), 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9.
Alice Marie Stober, born July 5, 1931 at Vauxhall, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at the age of 78 years. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 324 - 2 Avenue North, Vauxhall on Sunday, June 13, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 324 - 2 Avenue North, Vauxhall on Monday, June 14, 2010 at 10:30 A.M. with Reverend Patrick Furtado SAC Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Hays Cemetery. Alice is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, John; her children Delphine (Ken) Folton of Brooks, Brent (Angie) Stober of Hays and Brad Stober of Hays; grandchildren Leanne (Derek) Ully of Vulcan, Jennifer (Greg) Heistad of Coronation, Andrea Folton of Calgary, Krista Folton of Calgary, Sarah Stober of Medicine Hat, Amy Stober of Hays, Johnathan (Lindsay) Stober of Redcliff, Jesse (Lindsay) Stober of Lethbridge and Cole Stober of Hays; great grandchildren Tyson and Reese Ully and by her sister Beatrice (Vern) Jenson of Medicine Hat. She was predeceased by her daughter Deanna in 1985 and her daughter-in-law Wanda Stober in 2009. Alice and John were married in 1954 and thus began their life together on a farm near Hays. They worked hard together to build a home and raise a family. Alice and John rarely spent time apart. Family was everything to Alice. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren. There was a special place in her heart for each and everyone of them. Alice was very involved in the community, serving on the Civic Centre Board, teaching Catechism and also volunteering at the Hays School reading with the students in kindergarten and grade one. Over the years Alice sewed many baby quilts and knitted countless baby sweater sets for charities. She was a true homemaker, loving to cook, sew, quilt, knit and garden. Alice was a very caring woman always putting others before herself. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Alice’s name may be made directly to the Parkinson’s Society of Southern Alberta, 1254 - 3 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0J9.
Doug was born on November 14, 1917 at the Family Homestead North of Retlaw and passed away at St. Michael’s Palliative Care in Lethbridge on Thursday, May 13, 2010 at the age of 92 years. Doug is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary; his children Sharon (Arthur) Ferrari of Lethbridge, Jacalyn (Kerry) Watson of Magrath, Reid (Patti) Stevenson of Taber and Mary Ellen (Lloyd) Senneker of Vauxhall; his grandchildren Carla, Nicole (Bill), Sarah, Jennifer, Jason, Mitchell, Alexis, Jess (Katherine), Bryce, Shelby; his great grandchildren Conner, Lauren; brother Bob Stevenson of Brooks. Doug and Mary were married in 1946 and began their life together. They lived on the family farm near Retlaw for two years and then moved into Vauxhall. Doug and Mary worked hard together to build a home, raise a family and took great pride in all of their family achievements. Doug worked twenty two years in Vauxhall for the Taber School Division as a mechanic and later as the Superintend of Transportation. He then changed jobs and was Shop Foreman for the PFRA/Bow River Irrigation District until his retirement. Doug was a man who took pleasure in the simple things: his family, his work and his community. He was a great horseman, loved nature and animals and always enjoyed a walk in the outdoors. His community and friends were important to him and he was always available to lend a helping hand when called upon. He had a wonderful sense of humor and could spin a tale on the drop of a dime. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, May 16, 2010 from 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at the Vauxhall Mennonite Brethren Church, 320 - 9 Street North, Vauxhall on Monday, May 17, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Alana Johnson officiating. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Doug’s name may be made directly to the Vauxhall Academy of Baseball, Box 618, Vauxhall, Alberta, T0K 2K0 or a charity of one’s choice.
Delmar Bert Sutton, beloved husband of Marnie Sutton of Vauxhall, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge on Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at the age of 65 years. Besides Marnie, his loving wife of 39 years, he is survived by his children Karen (Mark) Ferguson of Edmonton, Chris Brown of New Jersey and Leah (Wade) Meier of Taber; grandchildren Eric and Ian Ferguson; Nicki, Ryan and Sydney Meier. He is also survived by his sister Bea (Egon) Engel and their children Shannon and David as well as numerous other relatives. He was predeceased by his parents Claude and Margaret Sutton; in-laws Dr. John and Marjorie Macgregor. Del was born April 12, 1944 in Brooks to Claude and Margaret Sutton. He was raised in Retlaw and attended school in Vauxhall. He married Marnie Macgregor on February 21, 1971. Del spent most of his life working in the oilfield. He also spent some time working as a auxiliary officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Prior to his retirement he was working for the Bow River Irrigation District. Del was a member of the Vauxhall Legion. He enjoyed camping, fishing, cooking, computers and dogs. Del always took an active interest in his children and grandchildren. He loved spending time with his family who will miss him dearly. The Funeral Service will be held at the Vauxhall Mennonite Brethren Church, 320 - 9 Street North, Vauxhall on Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Del’s name may be made directly to the charity of one’s choice.
Adrien Everett Stensrud, much loved husband of Shirley Stensrud and adored father of Brian, Wayne & Sharla, passed away peacefully at the Bow Island Health Centre on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at the age of 82 years. Adrien is survived by his wife of 53 years, Shirley and their children, Brian (Darla) Stensrud of Burdett, Wayne Stensrud of Lethbridge and Sharla (Mike) Herauf of Lethbridge; grandchildren, Courtney, Tanner, Tristan, Drew, Alli, Dawson and Ty. He is also survived by his sister, Naomi (Albert) Spaulding; brothers-in-law Larry (Mavis) Weatherhead and Earl (Marilyn) Weatherhead; sisters-in-law Jean (Ivan) Eriksen, Arlene Poole, Carol Weatherhead, Sherry (Don) Drake, Gertie (Bob) Pierson, Zelda Stensrud as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Henry and Helga Stensrud; brothers Elmer and Marvin; sister Doris Lockhart; brothers-in-law Sam Lockhart, Dale Weatherhead and Ross Poole as well as father and mother-in-law, Clarence & May Weatherhead. Adrien was born February 21, 1928 in Ryley, Alberta to Henry & Helga Stensrud. In 1950, he moved south to the Bow Island/Burdett area to work for Paul Joss and then Harry and Walter Strom. In 1955, he began farming rented land with Joe Bjerkseth which lasted until 1961 when he and Shirley began their own grain and cattle farming operation. Adrien and Shirley were married in 1956 and were blessed with three children and seven grandchildren. The early farming years were a challenge with raising a family, low income and many hailed-out years. It was Adrien’s immense desire to be a farmer and hard work ethic that helped them succeed. He loved life and enjoyed many activities including curling, hunting, golfing, skiing and helping with the kids’ sports teams. Many cherished friendships were made through these activities as well as at “coffee row”. Adrien and Shirley travelled to many places but their favorite place in recent years was spending winter months in Arizona with good friends. Adrien had a passion and talent for music and spent many hours playing the guitar and singing. Many fun times were had at the “Palm Breeze Hotel” making music with Jim Wutzke and Walter Cleland. He enjoyed singing in the church choir for several years and sang at numerous weddings, funerals and events over the years. The grandchildren will always remember singing “You are my Sunshine” with Grandpa. Adrien will be truly missed by his family and friends but we are comforted by many cherished memories. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at St. Andrew’s United Church, 139 - 2 Avenue West, Bow Island on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 139 - 2 Avenue West, Bow Island on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Sheila McLeod officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Adrien’s name may be made directly to the St. Andrew's United Church Memorial Fund, Box 36, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0 or to the charity of your personal choosing.
Katharina Schafer, beloved wife of Peter Schafer of Taber, passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the age of 74 years. Besides her loving husband Peter, she is survived by her children Anne (Jake) Goertzen of Calgary, Peter R. (Joyce) Schafer of Lethbridge, Norbert P. (Penny) Schafer of Taber and Ralph B. Schafer of Okotoks; eight grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Nick (Edith) Bruder; sisters-in-law Ann (Steve) Brugger and Marlene Bruder; brother-in-law John Scheger as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Adam & Monika Bruder; brother Mathias Bruder; sister-in-law Katie Scheger; mother-in-law Katharina Schafer and father-in-law Nichkolas Schafer. Our mother was born September 1, 1935 in Stanischitsch, Yugoslavia. She married Peter Schafer in 1952 in Austria. They immigrated to Canada in 1953 and settled in Taber where they raised their four children. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, January 1, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, January 2, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Patrick Furtado SAC, Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Katharina’s name may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society for Lethbridge & Area, 402, 740 - 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0N9.
Kelsea Larine Schmitz beloved daughter of Matt and Debbie Schmitz of Barnwell, passed away at the Foothills Hospital on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at the age of 17 years. Besides her loving parents Matt and Debbie, she is survived by her siblings Naomi, Blair and Tayler; her boyfriend Justin Morgan; grandparents Roy and Bonnie Smith, Jim Schmitz and Katie Kudilek, Evangeline Isaac; great grandparents Everett and Larine Kerkhoff as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was predeceased by her uncles Derald Smith and Danny Kerkhoff; great grandparents Oscar and Ella Isaac and her good friend Chris Yokoyama. Kelsea was born in Lethbridge on February 12, 1992. She lived in Taber and Barnwell all her life. Kelsea was currently in grade twelve at W.R. Meyers and was looking forward to graduating in the spring of 2010. Kelsea worked part time in the deli at the Safeway in Taber. She was a good friend to everyone. Kelsea was always full of energy and lived everyday to the fullest. Kelsea turned everything into an occasion. She loved to go water tubing behind the boat. Kelsea was very creative person and loved children. She also had a love for pets and often brought them home as presents for her family. Her pets Macy, Oscar and Pebbles will also miss her. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. only as no meet the family is scheduled prior to the funeral service. The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Bishop Eric Jensen conducting. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Kelsea’s name may be made directly to S.T.A.R.S., 1441 Aviation Park N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7 or to the Foothills Hospital (I.C.U. Unit) 1403 - 29 Street N.W., Calgary, Alberta T2N 2T9.
John Norman Stearns beloved husband of Phyllis Stearns, passed away in Bow Island on Friday, October 2, 2009 at the age of 94 years. Besides Phyllis, his loving wife of sixty four years, Norm is survived by his children, David (Joanne) Stearns of Prince George, British Columbia; Jim (Faye) Stearns of Trinidad, Colorado; John (Catherine) Stearns of Sparwood, British Columbia; Mark (Mona) Stearns of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Lorraine (Dale) Bowman of Fernie, British Columbia; Pat (Sheila) Stearns of Seven Persons; Mike Stearns of Brooks; Joey Stearns of Calgary; Merry (Jack) Calder of Bow Island; Norma (Rick) Bonar of Hinton; Tim (Dorothy) Stearns of Rocky Mountain House; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister Shirley Lester of Kimberly, British Columbia and by numerous nieces and nephews. Norm was born in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan on September 5, 1915 and was raised on a ranch south of Maple Creek. He married Phyllis Capling in Calgary on November 17, 1945. Norm cowboyed in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. He spent his life working with livestock and the horses he loved. A Graveside Service will be held at the Bow Island Cemetery, Bow Island on Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Sheila McLeod of St. Andrew’s United Church in Bow Island, officiating.
It is with great sadness that the family of John Sawka share in the heartbreaking loss of their Dad on Thursday, September 24, 2009 in Mayerthorpe, Alberta at the age of 57 years. John was born to William and Mary Sawka on June 26, 1952 in High Prairie, Alberta. It was in that area that he attended school and worked on the family farm. At the age of fourteen John entered the oilpatch and hasn’t looked back since. His true passion in life, he quickly worked his way up to consultant and continued consulting until the time of his passing. He set many drilling records and received many awards along the way due to his hard working ethics and dedication. On December 17, 1976 he married Kathy Janzen and they raised their family in Vauxhall. John was extremely devoted to his family, always there when called upon, and constantly putting their needs before his own. Sadly Kathy died in 2001, taking a huge part of John with her. The loss was too great for him and he was never the same. He tried hard to hide his pain and did his best to move on. He later married Terry Robinson on September 11, 2002 in Mayerthorpe and remained with her until the time of his passing, living together on a hobby farm where he thrived in the outdoors taking care of their many animals and working in the yard. He loved the outdoors and in his spare time he would often go quadding, boating, snowmobiling or camping. We will never forget his big heart and warm smile. He was friendly and extremely generous. His big loving hugs will be missed by those who had the pleasure of getting a big squeeze out of him. His family was everything to him and he adored his grandchildren. We love him dearly and will miss him everyday for the rest of our lives. John leaves behind his wife Terry Sawka; children Myrna (Chris) Sawka of Grande Prairie, Rhonda (Todd) Gould of Vauxhall, Amanda Sawka of Calgary and Brad (Kelly) Sawka of Vauxhall; grandchildren Wesley, Taylor, Riley, Reid and Sadie. His brother Harry Sawka; sisters Katie Ayling, Anne Hallman, Olga (Albert) LeClerc, Rose (Pat) Fay, Helen (Jerry) Belanger, Nancy (Allan) Wheatley, Vicky (Mike) Sawka and his mother Mary Sawka along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and in laws. John was predeceased by his wife Kathy Sawka; father William Sawka; brother George Sawka; brothers-in-law Alan Ayling and Ron Hallman; sister-in-law Joan Sawka. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, September 28, 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 Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Elroy Senneker officiating. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in John’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2M7.
George B. Schmidt, beloved husband of Helen Schmidt of Bow Island, passed away in Bow Island on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 at the age of 89 years. Besides his loving wife Helen, George also leaves to cherish his memory his children, Neil (Eileen) Schmidt, Dallas (Richard) Mitchell, Brian (Dawn) Schmidt and Myron Schmidt all of Bow Island; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law and two brothers-in-law; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by a son Wayne Schmidt; his parents, four brothers and three sisters. Relatives and friends are invited to prayers at St. Micheal’s Catholic Church, 1113 - 1 Street East, Bow Island on Friday, September 18, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 1113 - 1 Street East, Bow Island, on Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Fred Monk Celebrant. Burial to follow at the Bow Island Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Bow Island Food Bank, Box 56, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0 or to the St. Michael’s Church Building Fund, Box 56, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0. The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the care given to George by all the Doctors and staff at the Calgary Foothills Hospital and Dr. Woodruff and the staff at the Bow Island Health Centre.
Carole Margaret Sitch of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, September 6, 2009 at the age of 64 years. Carole will be lovingly remembered by her siblings, Maureen (Derek) Moss, Mary (Melvin) Addison, John (Helen) Mills, Graham (Christine) Mills and by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews in Stafford, England. In addition to her family in England, she will be fondly remembered by her Canadian “family” residing in her community of Paradise Canyon and many throughout Canada as well as her companion, her faithful puppy “Millie”. She was predeceased by her parents Charles & Edith Mills. Carole will be privately remembered by her family and friends. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Carole’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2M7. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, home care, palliative care, Lethbridge Cancer Clinic, Red Cross and all who cared for Carole during her illness.
Tove Sorensen, beloved wife of Arne Sorensen of Taber, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2009 at the age of 65 years. Tove is survived by her husband Arne; children Charlotte (Brian) Voogd of Edson, Martin (Joanne) Sorensen of Taber and their children Stephanie and Samantha, Vicky (Mark) Mount of Phenix City, Alabama as well as numerous family in Denmark. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, August 7, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. A private family service will be held at the Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber with Pastor Carl Bogda officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Tove’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2M7.
Susan Skidmore of Vauxhall, passed away in Waterton on Sunday, July 19, 2009. She is survived by her sons Dean (Tina) Skidmore of Lethbridge and their sons Noah and Ryan; Danny Skidmore of Vauxhall; brother Don Maynard of Phoenix. She was predeceased by her parents. Sue was born in Calgary to Ted and Jean Maynard. She graduated from the University of Calgary and taught school in Brant, Mossleigh, Carmangay, Gleichen and Vauxhall. She was also a substitute teacher in various other schools. A private service will be held. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Sue’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 210D - 12 ‘A’ Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 2J1.