Wilton, Frances Mable (nee Campbell)
Frances Wilton passed away Friday, May 9, 2014 at the Drumheller Hospital surrounded by her family. Frances was pre-deceased by her husband James (Jim), and sons David and Darrell. She is survived by her children Carol (Mahoney), Allan, Don, Brian, Debbie (Schinnour), Mike and families. A celebration of Frances’ life is being planned and details will follow.
Kochan, Michael Harry “RED”
March 9, 1943 - May 8, 2014
Dad passed away, surrounded by family at the Drumheller Hospital on Thursday, May 8, 2014. He will be lovingly remembered by; his children Terri (Mike) Bassie, Michael (Michelle) Kochan, grandchildren: Kimberly (Cody) Bassie, Nicole Bassie, and the apple of his eye, great grandson Cache Kelm, sister Donna (Dave) Sengaus, many nephews and nieces, as well as special friends Tracy and Skylar. Dad was predeceased by; his parents Harry and Stephie Kochan and by his brother Barry Curtis. Dad was born in Cudworth, Saskatchewan, and came to Alberta (Rumsey & Morrin) in his early teens. Dad started working on the railroad at the age of 16; he went on to construction and oilfield work before finding his long time job at the ALCB. After many years there, he managed his own liquor store until retirement. Dad loved his yard and flowers and was meticulous about it. He was also an avid sports fan and was a Toronto Maple Leafs # 1 fan. Dad especially loved music, he always had it playing and often singing along. Dad loved his friends and family and enjoyed spending time with both. He will be missed. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 P.M., on Wednesday, May 14, 2014, at Courtney-Winters Funeral Home, 199-2nd Street West, Drumheller, Alberta, with Harold Hunter officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada 6007 1 A Street S.W. Calgary, AB T2H 0G5.
Charlebois, Bertram Michael
May 17, 1941 - May 19, 2014
Bertram Michael Charlebois passed away peacefully with his wife Irma by his side after a lengthy battle with cancer. Michael celebrated his 73rd birthday on May 17th and then passed away May 19th He was predeceased by his parents Bertram and Dorothy and one sister Valerie (John)
Michael is survived by his wife of 49 years Irma and their children - son James (Danielle) and daughter Melanie Hepp (Brian) and his 6 grand daughters. Camille and Willow Charlebois and Kyla, Brittany, Amanda and Cassandra Hepp. He is also survived by his 9 loving siblings including brothers Albert (Terry) Robert (Henny) Elaine (Ray) Sam (Susan) Janet, Ellen, David (Judy) and Richard (Janet) as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He joined the RCMP in 1959 and served his country proudly until his retirement in 1983.
In 1986, Michael and Irma moved to Carbon, and then Drumheller where he began a 15 year career as head of security at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. After retiring from the museum in 2001, he worked at Drumheller Penitentiary until he hung up his work boots in 2007.
He lived life to the fullest and especially loved family gatherings and camping and the occasional trips to the casino. He fought cancer with strength, grace and dignity, and always tried to make it easier for everyone. The family would like to thank Doctor Racz, the staff in the cancer clinic, and the nurses and staff at the Drumheller hospital for the wonderful care Michael received. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Drumheller Hospital Foundation.
Prayers will be held on Friday May 23rd at Courtney Winters Funeral Home at 7 pm. Funeral Service on Saturday May 24th at 11 am at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Drumheller.
Internment to follow at the Carbon Cemetery.
Wilton, Frances Mabel
September 22, 1932 - May 9, 2014
Frances Mabel Wilton was born and lived all her life in Drumheller. She was the youngest of five children born to Angus and Marie Campbell. At a young age, she married James (Jim) Wilton and they raised a family of eight children. She worked in the restaurant industry for over forty years. She was the recipient of The Rotary Club’s Most Courteous Employee Award in 1978.
Frances was predeceased by Jim after 59 years of marriage; also by two sons, Darrell and David, and grandson John.
She is survived by six children, sons Allan, Don (Eleanor), Brian (Audrey), Mike, and daughters Carol (Garry) Mahoney and Debbie Schinnour, and daughter-in-law Donna Wilton; along with eighteen grandchildren and spouses; twenty three great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; numerous nieces and nephews and special friends Verdel and Dorelle.
Celebration of life will be held Sunday, May 25, 2014 at 2:00 pm at Midland Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to STARS, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570, Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7 or Drumheller Health Foundation, 151 - 9 St. N.W., Drumheller, AB. T0J 0Y1.
Stevenson, Ronald Beath
JANUARY 25, 1934 - MAY 12, 2014
Ronald Beath Stevenson passed away peacefully on May 12th, 2014 at the age of 80 years. Ron was born on the Company Farm January 25th, 1934 near Craigmyle, Alberta and this is where he spent the first few years of his life. His family moved twice before finally settling at the family farm near Delia which he remained at for the rest of his days. After completing high school he attended Olds College for Agriculture and began his life long career of farming.
Ron married Elizabeth Cordiner Smith on November 9th, 1957 in Craigmyle; they spent nearly 56 years together prior to her passing on October 14th, 2013. Ron was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and loved teasing his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of the Elks for many years. Ron enjoyed being outside, working on vehicles and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, Christmas concerts and awards ceremonies.
Ron was predeceased by; his beloved wife, Betty Stevenson, his father, Howard Stevenson, his mother, Euphemia Stevenson, and his granddaughter, Kyla Stevenson
Ron leaves to mourn his four children; Joni (George), Robbie (Cheryl), Douglas (Cathy) and Janet (Dave), his eight grandchildren; Trista (Chris), Kirsten (Ryan), Dalyn, Ryley (Allison), Meghan (Justin), Shane, Kirby and Kaeleigh, and sister-in-law Sandy (Will).
We will all miss Ron’s teasing nature and the special nicknames that he had for his children and grandchildren. He will be lovingly remembered every day and missed by all that knew him. He has now been reunited with Betty, his loving wife. There will be a celebration of life for Ron and Betty at a later date. Courtney-Winters Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements (403 823 2666).
Kohsel, Albert
Albert Kohsel of Drumheller passed away Monday, May 26, 2014. A celebration of his life will be held Friday May 30, 2014 at the Delia Community Center
Schuett, Darrell B
MAY 31, 2014
Mr. Darrell B. Schuett was suddenly taken from us on May 31, 2014 in Drumheller, Alberta.
Darrell’s family and friends request your presence on Saturday June 7, 2014 at the Rosedale Community Hall at 2:00 p.m. for a Celebration Of Life service.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations made in memory of Darrell to S.T.A.R.S. Air Ambulance, would be greatly appreciated.
Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.
Bixby, Garry
1952 - MAY 28, 2014
Mr. Garry Bixby, of Drumheller, beloved husband of Marlene Bixby passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 28, 2014 at the age of 62 years.
Garry was born in 1952 to Lloyd and Ella Bixby, he was raised in Drumheller. Garry worked at the City of Drumheller for several years before moving on to the Drumheller Institution. There, Garry made many exceptional memories and formed friendships that he cherished very much.
Garry was a fan of all sports, especially his beloved “Toronto Blue Jays and the Edmonton Oilers”. He loved to engage in conversations for hours discussing the Wide World of Sports. Garry enjoyed music immensely, and was a part of a few bands back in the day. No band was as important to him as being a part of The Bixby Band. He kept his guitar by his side always.
Garry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend, his two grandchildren were the “apple of his eye”.
Garry was predeceased by his father, Lloyd Bixby.
Garry leaves to mourn his loving wife, Marlene, daughter, Crystal (Darcy) Schinnour, son, Darren Bixby, grandchildren, Mackenna and Dallyn Schinnour, mother, Ella Bixby, sisters, Eileen (Alex) Cysouw, Alma (Darryl) Gray, numerous nieces, nephews and a lifetime of friends.
A Celebration of Garry’s Life will be held Thursday June 5, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. from the Church of the Nazarene with Mr. Todd Reinholt as celebrant. If friends so desire memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Alberta/NWT Division, 200-325 Manning Road N.E., Calgary, Alberta, T2E 9Z9. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.
White, Sheldon Charles
JANUARY 03, 1986 - MAY 26, 2014
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved son; Sheldon Charles White. Sheldon was born January 03, 1986 in Drumheller, Alberta and passed away May 26, 2014 in Red Deer, Alberta at the age of 28 years.
Sheldon was passionate about numerous things in life. His younger years were spent growing up in Morrin, AB where he enjoyed playing hockey year round (street or ice). He was known for his “cat like” skills tending net for his team. He was an awesome goalie. Some of Sheldon’s other passions in life included his love of music from the time he was a very young boy. Sheldon also loved the outdoors. He loved camping at the Morrin Bridge with his family but his favourite vacation spot was Penticton, BC where he loved to float down the canal time and time again. Sheldon’s dream in life was to grow up and be just like his dad; working in the oil patch on the drilling rigs, which he did. Sheldon shared with his mother a passion and love for Alberta’s majestic mountains and they enjoyed numerous hiking trips to Banff National Park.
Sheldon had a heart larger than life itself. He was a kind and gentle soul who thought the world of his family and friends and he loved to make them laugh. Sheldon adored and cherished his sister and best friend Amanda, as well as his two nieces; Paige and Claire.
Sheldon leaves behind his loving parents; Darrell White and Anna-Marie White (Raisbeck), his sister Amanda and brother in-law Reid (Swain), his nieces Paige and Claire Swain, Grandmother Julie White (Jackman), Grandfather Grant Raisbeck, Grandmother and step-Grandfather Mary and Don Jackson, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Sheldon was preceded in death by his Great-Grandmother Mary Ellen White (2003), Great Grandmother Florence Matchett, Grandfather Melville Charles White (1993), his cousins Justin Laverne Bremer (1997) and Shane Robert Grant Raisbeck (2009).
Services for Sheldon will be held Saturday, May 31, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the Grace Lutheran Church in Drumheller, Alberta with Pastor Boehm officiating. A “private” family interment will follow immediately at the Morrin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that donations be made to STARS FOUNDATION, 1441 Aviation Park N.E., Box 570, Calgary, Alberta, T2E 9Z9. Courtney Winters Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements.
Broom, Ralph
December 2, 1926 - June 6, 2014
Ralph Broom, beloved husband and best friend to “Jeannie”, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 6, 2014 in Drumheller, Alberta. Ralph was born in Nacmine on December 2, 1926 to Robert and Dora Broom and lived his entire life in Nacmine. Ralph worked for many years as a coal miner and later took up carpentry and construction after the local mines closed. Ralph also worked for the Drumheller School Division prior to his retirement.
Ralph was a loving husband and father and was very proud of his five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Ralph loved fishing and spent countless hours at various fishing holes around the valley, constantly in search of catching “the big one”. Ralph tied his own fishing flies and much of his fishing success was attributed to his own fly he dubbed the “Broom Bug”. Ralph also had a love for gardening and was extremely proud of his prized tomatoes.
Ralph is survived by his loving wife Jean, son Don (Karen), son Bob (Heather), grandchildren Ami, Scott (Karla), Sarah (Paul), Cody, Kelsey (Tom) and great grandchildren Gracie and Ava. Ralph was pre-deceased by his parents, his brother Francis Broom and his sister Doris Cooper. Ralph is also survived by his sisters Joan Kelly and Evelyn Higgins.
Respecting Ralph’s wishes, a private ceremony for the immediate family only will be held on Friday, June 13.
Hunter, (Nee Peterson) Lorraine Mae
May 27, 1941 - June 6, 2014
Lorraine M. Hunter succumbed to the ravages of cancer and passed away peacefully at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary on Friday June 6, 2014 at the age of 73 years.
Born and reared in Drumheller, Alberta, she completed her nursing education in Calgary. She then pursued her Registered Nursing career in Moose Jaw, Edmonton and Calgary. This career was interrupted to be a “stay at home mom” and to also assist her husband in his land surveying practice.
Besides her loving husband Wm. R. (Bill) Hunter of forty-seven years, Lorraine is survived by her two devoted daughters and sons-in-law; Tara and Paul Roett and Kirsten and Robert Zimola; four adorable grandchildren, Kate and Kurtis Roett and Drew and Ben Zimola. She is also survived by her dear brother and sister-in-law Don and Lynn Petersen and their family.
Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle N.W. Calgary, AB), on Friday, June 13, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. Graveside Services will be held at Drumheller Cemetery on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire and in lieu of flowers; we would appreciate your consideration in making a donation to a charity of your choice.
In living memory of Lorraine Hunter, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot Chapel, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W. CALGARY, AB. Telephone: 1(800) 661-1599.
Finnimore, Bryan
July 9, 1940 - June 2, 2014
It is with great sadness and sorrow that we announce the passing of our Husband and Father Bryan Finnimore, who passed away peacefully June 2, 2014 in Drumheller, Alberta with his family by his side.
Bryan was born July 9, 1940 in St. Rose du Lac Manitoba. He was raised on his family farm in Norgate Manitoba. And in 1961 he married his soul mate Elaine. In 1964 Bryan and Elaine welcomed their daughter Lorelei to the family and in 1970 their son Dean. Lorelei married Gord Tedischini in 1984 and in 2013 Dean married Jenny Vredegoor.
Bryan was a B Pressure Welder by trade and upon retirement Bryan and Elaine moved to Rosedale, AB in 2002 and have called Drumheller home since then.
Bryan leaves to mourn his loving wife Elaine Finnimore, his daughter Lorelei Tedischini (Gord), son Dean Finnimore (Jenny), Brother Cliff Finnimore (Jay), Sister Evelyn Harper (Ivan), numerous nieces’ nephews and lifetime friends.
Bryan was predeceased by his mother Louise, father Charlie, sister Kathleen (Gerald), brother Leonard, brother Harry (Jean), and three infant children.
A celebration of Bryan’s life was held on Friday, June 6, 2014 at Mountain View Memorial Gardens in Calgary.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Bryan's name to the Drumheller Area Health Foundation (Continuing Care Unit) 351-9th ST N.W. Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y1 or The Arthritis Society of Alberta and N.W.T. Division 1301 8th St. S.W. Suite 200 Calgary, AB T2R 1B7.
Bryan’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude for all the visits, calls, cards and emails over the last week. It is has been a great comfort. We would also like to thank the staff at both the Hanna Long Term Care and the Drumheller Continuing Care for taking such great care of our husband and Dad over the last 9 months. Your care and compassion was so appreciated.
Kohsel, Albert Christian
March 7, 1909 – May 26, 2014
Albert passed away at Drumheller Continuing Care surrounded by his loving family. Celebrating his 105th birthday in March, we were truly blessed to have had him with us this long. We will miss that twinkle in his eye, his smile, the extended hand for a handshake, and also that whistle that beckoned your attention.
Albert was born in Sindal, Denmark and immigrated to Canada by ship in 1927 at the age of 18. He became a Canadian citizen of which he was very proud. He made his way to the Craigmyle area where his uncle, Walter Norgard lived. In July 1940 he married Ada Thompson. They purchased some land and farmed in the Victor/Delia area for 37 years, where they raised their family and were involved in the community. On the farm he enjoyed reading, singing, snowmobiling, and bird hunting, In 1974 they retired to Drumheller where Dad was kept busy enjoying coffee and visiting with friends, gardening, riding his bicycle, fishing, and travelling in the motorhome with Mom. He also made some trips “home” to Denmark with his children.
In between the coffee breaks he delivered cars to dealerships and toured people around Drumheller showing them the local attractions. He held office in different organizations: Delia Seed Cleaning Plant, Delia Co-op, Hussar Propane Association, and Craigmyle Credit Union. He was also a Mason in the Delia chapter. In 2004 they moved from their home to the Sunshine Lodge, and in 2010 Dad moved to Continuing Care until his passing. Dad’s positive outlook helped him transition through each chapter of his life.
He is survived by his children, Andrew (Carol) Kohsel, Karen (Gordon) Prichard, Elaine (Ray) Gordon, and Beverley Schooler; grandchildren Albert Gascal, Julianne (Bob) Behan, Shelley Badowich, Yvonne Bishop, Stephen (Johanna) Gordon, and Krista (Joel) Schroeder and their families; brother-in-law Wilson Thompson and sister-in-law Mavis Thompson. He is also survived by Danish relatives. He was predeceased by Ada, his wife of 70 years, son-in-law Don Schooler, sisters/brothers-in-law Ella (Aage) Christianson and Gudren (Fricka) Jensen, Jim (Lois) Thompson, Sam (Ruth) (Viola) Thompson, Cecil Thompson, and Maxine Thompson.
A Memorial Service was held on May 30, 2014 at the Delia Community Centre with Betty Warrington of Hanna officiating.
If friends so desire, donations may be made in Albert’s memory to a charity of their choice. Alternatives’ Funeral & Cremation Services of Airdrie were in charge of arrangements.
Thank you to all the medical staff and ‘worldly angels’ at Drumheller Continuing Care for the wonderful care given to Albert and his family. Thank you also to those who assisted the family in any way; confirming the old adage, ‘ there is nothing like strength and support of friends and community.’
Calon, Frank George
July 11, 1930 - June 7, 2014
Frank Calon was rewarded on Saturday evening, June 7, for a life well lived and one in which he was much loved. Frank was born in Drumheller, Alberta on July 11, 1930, one of nine children of Edward and Celestine Calon. In 1952, while at art school in Calgary, Frank met and later married the love of his life, Louise Grant, who was just beginning her teaching career. The call of the farm beckoned this happy young couple and Frank and Louise moved to the Michichi area where Frank farmed for over forty years.
Frank was an extremely talented individual. His skills included a vast array of both intellectual and practical knowledge, as well as artistic gifts. Frank’s beautiful landscape paintings grace the homes of many and will live on as a testimony to his notable talent. Also, Frank’s unique sense of humour and fun will always be remembered by his children and grandchildren, and so many others who knew him. Finally, there was not an individual with a better work ethic than Frank. His family, his church and the community benefitted greatly from his dedication to service for the benefit of others.
Frank is survived by his twin sisters, Celestine and Anne and his brother, Paul. His seven children and 13 grandchildren - Kathleen and Brad Diggens and their daughters, Melissa (Mike), Jennifer, Samantha. Danny and Janne Calon and their children Dara, Jacy, Kara, Jakub. Joanne Zebedee and her daughter Jamie (Paul). Patty Calon and Christopher Patience. Connie and Dan Cabrera and their son Logan. Wendy and Tim Dyck and their sons Joseph (Stacey), Travis and great grandson Franko. Mary and Aaron Dommasch and their children Hillary and Doug.
Special thanks to the “McDonald’s Coffee Club” in Drumheller and all the friends of Frank who supported him after the loss of his beloved wife, Louise eight years ago. We are joyful that Dad is now with Mom. A big thank you is also extended to the staff at the Drumheller Hospital and the Southwood Hospice in Calgary. A prayer service will be held at Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Home on the evening of June 11 at 7 p.m. and a memorial mass in honour of Frank’s life will be celebrated at St. Anthony’s Parish in Drumheller on June 12 at 1 p.m. Donations may be made to the charity of choice.
Foster, Rose Marie
May 20, 1967, Calgary - June 8, 2014, Drumheller
Rose Marie Foster was born and raised in Calgary, AB but was called to the country life as a young adult where she spent her days as an active member of the Drumheller community, volunteering and brightening the days of her many friends with her vibrant smile and unique brand of humour. With the help of her loving spouse of 17 years and her supportive sponsor Tom Ashmore, she maintained her sobriety for 14 years and remained a true inspiration to the people of her group facing the same tough battle. On June 8, 2014 her beautiful spirit left this stage for the next, leaving behind fond memories of her stubborn strength and kind heart. She is survived by her daughter Amber May, son DJ and common law husband Mike Cherpak. Service will be held Monday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m. at Courtney Winters Funeral Chapel. Interment to follow at Munson Cemetery.
Huculak, Carol Diane
March 28, 1949 - June 7, 2014
Carol Huculak of Drumheller passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2014 after her 8 month hard fought battle with cancer ended in peace. Her husband Steve Huculak and children: Sherry, Stephen and Jack were by her side as well as Cathy Bishop, her devoted niece. Carol was the “LOVE OF OUR LIVES” and always will be. By her side was also her walking companion, a black lab named “Molly”. Over the past several years Carol and Molly walked daily side by side, Molly was her inspiration. Carol worked at the Drumheller Hospitals (old and then new one) for 28 years in dietary. She retired in 2008 due to health issues. Her passions in life were her love of house plants as well as her shrubs and flower garden. Carol would sit outside daily, this time of year, and await the annual arrival of humming birds that she truly treasured, she loved to watch all the birds. Besides her immediate family, Carol leaves to mourn her brothers, John (Judy) Lewis, Bruce Lewis and sister Joanne Lewis. She also leaves to mourn her grandchildren: Alicia, Ben, Bradley, Kristen, Calvin, Jesse and Jayden along with great-granddaughter Anias. Carol’s wish was to say goodbye to her two very close and caring friends, Ursula Church and Sheila Paullus. She knows your thoughts and prayers are with her. Also a special goodbye to Carol’s brother-in-law Walter Huculak. The Huculak family wish to extend our thanks and appreciation of care given to Carol by Dr. Racz, along with, Audry and Tammy at the Drumheller Hospital Cancer Clinic, what caring and devoted people you are. It will never be forgotten. Also a big thank you to Dr. Neffgen and all the nursing staff, lab technicians, as well as the CT scan/ X-ray staff, you were wonderful. Carol’s wish was to be cremated with her ashes spread at a later date by her family, with no Funeral. A goodbye to friends, past co-workers and neighbors. Her final wish is no flowers, no cards and just to “Remember her as she was”. In lieu of such, if friends desire, her wish is a Memorial Donation be made to the Drumheller Area Health Foundation (Cancer Clinic) 351-9th Street NW Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y1.
“Carol, let the gentle breeze blow through your hair as you walk in Heaven”
Courtney-Winters Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements (403 823 2666).
Jensen, Larry Arnold George
JUNE 20, 1944 - JUNE 11, 2014
It is with sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Larry Jensen at his summer home at Willow Grove Campground near Bashaw, Alberta. He will be missed by his dear friend, Natalie Munroe, his children, Parry Jensen (Terra and Megan Charmont), Shawna Castonguay (Joe), adoring grandchildren, Cort and Rhylan Castonguay and children’s mother, Marlene Jensen. Larry was born in Drumheller, Alberta to Arild and Glenys Jensen. He was raised on a farm in Dalum, Alberta. After graduating from Standard High School Larry went to work operating in oil and gas for many years. He then had a successful career in sales of farm implements. Larry loved nature and animals, especially his beloved pets, Lacey, Bob and Blue. He enjoyed watching chuckwagon racing and travelled the countryside to do so. Larry was a great source of knowledge of news and current events around the world. He enjoyed his years of travelling to the Southwestern United States to escape the long Alberta winters. Larry always looked forward to spring when he returned to Willow Grove to his vast circle of friends in the Bashaw and Ponoka area. Respecting Larry’s wishes, a formal service will not be conducted. A family memorial will be held at a later date. Our family wishes to thank the wonderful communities of Ponoka and Bashaw for all the kindness and support shown to Larry over the years. He made many special friendships and considered this area “Home”. In lieu of flowers, if friends desire, donations can be made to Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331-29 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2 or your local SPCA.
Hall, Charlotte
OCTOBER 6, 1918 - JUNE 9, 2014
It is with much sadness that the family announces the passing of their Mother Charlotte Hall on June 9, 2014 at the age of 95 years. Charlotte was born on October 6, 1918 in Delia, Alberta. She married Ernie Hall on November 14, 1936. Charlotte is survived by her children Viola (Eldon), Arlene, Donald (Bev), David (Barb) and son-in-law Dennis, twenty five grandchildren, fifty one great-grandchildren and twelve great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Thelma, brothers Stan and Bill (Freda) and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. Charlotte was predeceased by her parents Severn and Tonetta Sverdahl, her husband Ernie, daughter Joanne, her son-in-law Don Herzog, sisters Ruth (Leonard), Helen (George), Lila (Jim) and sister-in-law Mildred and brother-in-law Jack. At Mom’s request a private family service will be held. As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Charlotte, memorial contributions may be made to the Stettler Health Services Foundation – Heritage House or to a charity of your choice in care of Brennen Funeral Home and Cremation Services who have been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. 403.742.3315. Condolences can be forwarded to the family by visiting our website at www.brennenfuneralhome.com.
Foster, (Lewis) Donna May
May 22, 1935 - June 9, 2014
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Beloved Mom, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Donna passed away peacefully June 9, 2014 at the Drumheller Health Centre with her family at her side. Donna was born May 22, 1935 to William and Annie Lewis of Wayne, Alberta. She leaves to mourn, her loving daughters Sherry (Don) Bitz and Cindy Foster and her grandchildren Dana (Scott), Ryan (Heather), Micha, Joshua (Jodi), Kelly ( Pat) and her precious great grandchildren, Justice, Alexis, Kayden, Maya, Kasey, Cali, Jaxon, and Jesse. Donna is survived by her sister Jasmine Conroy and numerous nieces, nephews and lifetime friends. Donna was predeceased by her first husband Bernie Doucette and her late husband George Foster and her brothers Roy, Bill and Aldwyn Lewis. Donna’s wish was to be cremated with her ashes spread by her family, with no formal funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donna’s name to the Drumheller Area Health Foundation, (Palliative Care Unit) 351-9th Street N.W. Drumheller, Alberta T0J 0Y1. Our family wishes to extend their gratitude and appreciation for the compassionate care given to Donna by Dr. Maseka, Nurses and Staff of the Drumheller Hospital. We especially want to thank our family and friends for all the visits, and kind gestures. It has been a great comfort.
Sherry, Cindy and family.
Church, Grace
1925 - 2014
Grace passed away on June the 17th after a long, hard fought battle with cancer. She will be missed by her family and friends. Grace was born, April 10th, 1925, in Spokane, Washington, but returned to the family home in Drumheller soon after. She loved growing up in Drumheller, and in spite of the Great Depression, her stories and memories recalled an idyllic and abundant childhood and adolescence, surrounded by family, friends and neighbours who never needed money to have fun. Her beloved, hard working Mama, known to the family as Granny McArthur, could make a penny work like a dollar. Granny saved those pennies and bought the first radio in North Drum, and on Saturday nights, would move it to the side of the street where everyone gathered to dance and to sing. Donnie, or Doris, as she was called back then, and her cousins and friends would go to the mines to pick up bits of coal to help keep the home fires burning in the winters. They had no understanding of poverty; they were just kids having fun. On April 24th, 1943, two weeks after her 18th birthday, Grace joined the Canadian Womens Army Corps. She was thrilled by her time in the Service and joyed in telling the stories of her time in the army for the rest of her life. She and her sweetheart, Bill Church, an RCAF officer, managed to zig zag their way across the country to share some adventures with each other and were married on October 30th, 1943. Bill was 19 years old. Grace, still 18. As the old photos remind us, they were both very young, both very beautiful in the uniforms they wore with such pride. When the war ended, Grace and Bill settled onto Bill’s family farm, close to his parents and beloved brother, Harry. Though they lived in the infamous shack, where the snow blew into small drifts on the kitchen floor, “where the mice ran in and the mice ran out because of the cold”, there was no end to the fun, no end to the great times with neighbours, friends and family. The farm years were a delight to Grace. Her humble home was a gathering place. No matter who dropped in, she was glad to welcome them. She would throw a few more potatoes into the pot, whip up four dozen buns, as a roast was cooking, and there was always a wonderful meal to be shared. Grace loved her new found family. Alice and Allen Church, and her dearly loved, brother-in law, Harry and later, Harry’s wife, Virginia, were vitally important to her. As the babies were born into this loving and extended family, they were surrounded by the love of the whole clan, not to mention a horde of neighbours, and their babies, and the other vibrant loves of the farm. Litters of baby piglets, warmed in the oven on cold winter nights, dogs and cats, rabbits, chickens, cattle who seemed to be always breaking out of fences. Grace embraced it all with a lot of love and a wonderful sense of humour. She loved her children and her nieces and nephews, her neighbours’ children, loved “that whole mess of kids” and was glad of everyone. There were losses and heartaches. Two babies, Barry, and Sandra were lost to the family, and are grieved to this day. Grace was finally able to rest, knowing that she would be with those babies, and much of that wonderful family, once again. Grace lived in Carbon for many years, with her dear friend Howard Smith. Later, she moved to the Golden Hills Lodge in Three Hills, and lived happily there for many wonderful years, in the loving embrace of friends and staff. Howard was with her every step of the way in the journey of aging, as was his family and hers. As Grace’s health declined, she was flown out on a private jet to Port Alberni, BC. She lived well and happy at Rainbow Gardens, a miraculous and loving home, close to her daughter’s home there, and was visited often by her beloved sons, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, who made frequent trips to be with her. She made many friends, in Port Alberni, as she always has done, and we all mourn her loss.
