In Memoriam – 2013
Earl Robert Carlson
February 13, 1937 – December 11, 2013
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Earl Robert Carlson beloved husband of Joyce Ann Carlson at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on December 11, 2013 at the age of 76 years. He was a loving father to his daughter, Mina Nancy Carlson (Rory Sehn) and their children, Brady, Kallen, Aidan; son, Clinton Andrew Carlson of Red Deer, AB., and his children, Torston and Ellia; son Lance E. Carlson of New Westminster, B.C. Earl also leaves to cherish his memory two sisters, Irene Cartier and Carol (Olivo) Albrino; brothers-in-law, Victor (Liz) Petersen, John (Rayleen) Petersen, Jim (Linda) Petersen; sister-in-law, Peggy Jean (Floyd) Flemmer as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Einer Perreleus Carlson of Oslo, Norway in 1972 and Ruth Watn (Carlson) of Troneheim, Norway in 1968.
Earl was born on February, 13, 1937 in New Westminster, B.C. There he worked as a tugboat operator and in the lumber industry. Earl moved to Calgary in 1963 where he met and married Joyce Petersen in 1964. They moved to Medicine Hat in 1975 to raise their family. Earl’s working career included Western Co-op Fertilizers and Canadian Fertilizers for 18 years. Together, Earl and Joyce owned and operated Carlson’s Art Room between 1979 to 1984 where Earl enjoyed the custom framing portion of the business while Joyce ran the store and balanced the books. Earl loved his home life, football (BC Lions) and took pride in his yard especially after his retirement. Earl will be missed by all who knew him.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The War Amps, 2827 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON., K1V 0C4.
Gladys Stanley Bregg Leitch
1915 – 2013
On Wednesday November 20, 2013 at 11:50 a.m. my beautiful, loving Grandmother passed away in Medicine Hat Alberta. She was the Matriarch of our family and Grand Lady who has watched and guided over one hundred plus sons, daughters, grand children, great and great, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and all those she adopted into our family.
Granny has gone to heaven to join her grandparents, father, mother, brother, sister, her loving husband David Alden, her oldest son Gerald, her granddaughter Sandra and son in law James. I want to thank you Granny for being our teacher, our mentor, and our inspiration. Thank you for babysitting all of us and playing a major part in our upbringing. Thank you for teaching us to love and forgive. Thank you for nursing our wounds; both physical and emotional. Thank you for never forgetting our birthdays and anniversaries. Thank you for boarding and feeding me, Dave, Dan, Kelly, Rick, Jimmy and all the other boys, Boilermakers, tradesmen, rig hands, cowboys, hockey players and whomever your boys brought into your kitchen and home for a home cooked meal. We will all miss your world famous cinnamon buns. Thank you for teaching us the importance of family. Last but not least, thank you, God. They say You always take the good when they are young, but every once in a while You leave someone special here on earth to take care and watch over us. You gave us Granny for nearly 100 years. She did her job. Welcome her now into your Holy Kingdom.
What a life Granny lived. She was born at the start of the first World War, saw the inventions of everything from the automobile, airplane, telephone, radio, penicillin, television, farming with horses, the steam tractor, the threshing machine to the modern world we all live in today.
Granny believed whole-heartedly in the support The Salvation Army brought to so many. If you would like, memorial donations may be made to your local Salvation Army in Gladys’ name.
Marjorie Elaine Bildfell
October 3, 1948 – November 11, 2013
Marjorie Elaine Bildfell passed away on Monday, November 11, 2013 at the age of 65 years, beloved wife of Bob Bildfell of Medicine Hat, Alberta. She also leaves to cherish her memory two children; Kevin Golem (Carla) of Lloydminster and Mark Golem (Mel) of Calgary, Alberta and their father Gerald Golem (Marsha) of Simmie, Saskatchewan; eight grandchildren Randi, Kali, Joshua, Maya, Mackenzie, Andrew, Elliot, and Marie; Bob’s children, Kim Bildfell, Launa Simpson (Kevin) and Jared Bildfell; Bob’s grandchildren Kara, Donavon, Reese, Travis, Tanner, and Kasey; one great granddaughter Vanna; one brother Bill Zaremba (Donna), two sisters, Betty Miller (Rick) and Toni Klink (Richard); her step mother Salome Zaremba of Swift Current, Saskatchewan; as well as her uncles, nieces, nephews and Bob’s family. She was predeceased by her parents Adeline and Alfons Zaremba and one brother Bob Zaremba.
For those wishing, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society, 401D 3rd Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 0G8
Irene Nelson-Williams
August 13, 1922 – Sept 19, 2013
Mrs. Irene Nelson-Williams of Medicine Hat, born on August 13, 1922 in Delia, Alberta, passed away on September 19, 2013, at the age of 91 years. Irene was the first child of Alma and Arthur Hoover. She was predeceased by her husband of 35 years, Norman Nelson. Later in life, Mom married Leigh Williams, her husband of 17 years, until his passing in 2010. Also waiting for Mom are her children, Janie, Deanna and Kevin. Irene was also pre- deceased by other family members including, Arthur Hoover, Erik Nelson, Neil McNeill, Marion and Don McNeill, Howard and Helen Hoover, Harold Mueller, Cecil Hoover, and John and Bertha Williams. Irene is survived by her sisters, Lorna Mueller, Verna McNeill and Charlotte Hoover.
Her memory will be cherished by her children, Judy (Al) Cruickshank, Garry (Jan) Nelson, Wendy (Terry) Jacobsen, Harold (Lucy) Stiansen, Elizabeth Nelson, Susan Nelson and Jan Annette; step-children, Jack (Wendy) Williams, Cheryl Hartwell and Donna (John) Graham; her loving grandchildren, Curtis (Cindy) Cruickshank, Danny (Jen) Cruickshank, Karli (Derek) Hammel, Mathew Cruickshank, Trevor, Tasha and Justin Nelson, Erik and Sarah (Dustin) Nelson, Jonathan (Naomi) Stiansen, Jacquelyn and Stuart Jacobsen; great grandchildren, Aaliyah, Lauryn and Ivy Cruickshank. She is also survived by step-grandchildren, Dean (Farrah) Williams, David Williams, Tyler and Tyson (Kari) Hartwell, Ben Graham, Anne (Mark) Dyck; step-great-grandchildren, Elyssa, Ashley, Dylan, Abby, Calder, Graham, Laura, and Griffin.
Eldest of seven children, Irene was raised on the family farm at Delia, Alberta, and life on a prairie farm was full of love and family ties. She attended Big Valley High School and developed many life-long friendships while there and brought new acquaintances who added life to the farm. Irene attended Normal School in Calgary to begin a teaching career. During World War II, she was called to work in an airplane factory in Calgary. Irene and her sister, Marion completed their first class certification in Edmonton in 1944. She went on to teach in many locations.
Norman and Irene Nelson were married in 1948, raising six children on the family farm at Craigmyle. Although she experienced many personal losses through the years, her personal strength, attention and commitment to her family continued to enrich us. Irene endured remarkable circumstances that many do not experience yet continued being the genuine, welcoming and kind person that will always define her. She left a legacy of love and was a true masterpiece who kept her family and friends close to her heart. Irene was a master chef, seamstress extraordinaire, creative genius (all true) and engrained solid family values in all of us. She shared her talents with family, friends and community; her hospitality always reflected her respect and love for others. In Uncle Howard’s words, “Going to see Rene and her family was a treat. She could make some mean candy, bread or anything you could imagine. Every visit was an adventure ”
Mom and Dad opened a very successful flower shop, “Nelson Flowers,” on the family farm serving the area for many years. They will be remembered for their Christmas open houses, bedding out plants, beautiful fresh and silk arrangements. Irene continued living on the family farm for many years following Norman’s passing.
In 1993, Irene married Leigh Williams and resided on the William’s Farm at Arrowwood, Alberta. New friendships developed through family ties in that community. Leigh supported Irene’s zest for life as she attended classes in Calgary and learned to paint. She also made many Teddy Bears for family and friends. Irene and Leigh had a rich fulfilling life in Arrowwood and will be remembered for their talents and dedication to family and friends. In 2008, they moved to Medicine Hat where they resided at Meadowlands Retirement home until their passing. If friends so desire, memoria donations may be made to the Medicine Hat Womens Sheter Society, Box 2500, Medicine Hat, Alberta. T1A 8G8.
Gordon Grant Oster
December 31, 1951 – Sept 15, 2013
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gordon Grant Oster, beloved husband of Maureen Anne Oster (nee Mattson), announce his passing at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Sunday, September 15, 2013, at the age of 61 years. Along with Maureen, left to cherish Gordon’s memory are his children: daughters, Jennifer and Melanie (Steve); son, Stacey; grand- children, Rylee, Corianne, Carter and Ethan. He will be lovingly remem- bered by his brother, Bryan (Joan) Oster; mother-in-law, Margaret Mattson; brothers-in-law, Gordon (Cheryl) Mattson, Wayne (Sharla) Mattson; sister-in-law, Janice (Wes) Archer as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his son, Jason Oster; his parents, Alfred and Ottela Oster as well as his father-in-law, Alvin Mattson.
Gordon was born on December 31, 1951, in Maple Creek, SK., and grew up in Golden Prairie, SK., with his brother, Bryan. He lived in Golden Prairie until he met his wife, Maureen, later moving with her to Medicine Hat where they raised their family. He worked many jobs and found a good home working for the Alberta Government as a Transportation Officer for 35 years. Maureen and Gordon loved to travel and often packed up their trailer and journeyed to the Cypress Hills and British Columbia. For the past six years, they escaped the Canadian winter and travelled to Arizona. Gordon was often quoted as saying he loved being a snowbird, and for him, there was no better life than living in the warm weather there.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made in Gordon’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 124, 430 – 6 Avenue S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 2S8, or to the Westminster United Church Memorial Fund.
Alvin E. Mattson
May 25, 1923 – August 8, 2013
Alvin Earl Mattson passed away on Thursday, August 8, 2013, at the age of 90 years, the beloved husband of Margaret (Flynn) Mattson for 64 years.
Along with Marg, left to cherish Alvin’s memory are his children, Maureen (Gordon) Oster, Gordon (Cheryl) Mattson, Janice (wes) Archer and Wayne (Sharla) Mattson. he is also survived by his brother, Harold (Joyce) and sisters, Ruth (of Redwood City, California), Irene (Winnipeg,MB.), Joyce (Niagra Falls, on.) and Enid (Bob) of Edmonton. also missing him are his eleven grandchildren: Jennifer, Stacey, Melanie (Steve), Heather (Jason), Rhianna (william), Brennan (Dyan), Melinda (Neil), Ashley (Tyler), Alexandra, Danika and Cian as well as 15 great-grandchildren. Alvin was predeceased by his parents, Hans and Bertha Mattson; brothers, Walter, Marvel and Vernon; twin sister, May; sister, Eunice and grandson, Jason.
Alvin was born on a homestead in Richmound, SK. on May 25, 1923. he served in World War II as an airframe mechanic and on his return, trained to become a master carpenter and worked for 40 years at CFB suffield, retiring as a Construction engineer. He was a handyman all his life, helping his family and many others whenever they needed him.
Alvin’s family meant everything to him. he was a kind and gentle man who faithfully attended Westminster United Church and was a familiar face at the coffee hour. Alvin will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Judith Anne Forsythe
July 25, 1953 – July 11, 2013
Judith Anne Forsythe passed away on Thursday, July 11th, 2013 at the age of 59 years. Judy, as she was known to family, Jude to friends and co-workers, leaves to cherish her memory her son, Malcolm Grant; her three grandchildren of whom she was so proud, Jaidene, Lauren, and Brennen; her brother, Dan (Donna); her niece, Shelly (Shawn) and their children, Shad and Zander; her nephews, Aaron and Joel; and her little white dog, Thelma; as well as her Riverview family. Judy was predeceased by her mom, Edna in 2012; and her dad, George in 1998.
Judy was born in Vancouver, BC on July 25th, 1953. As a child she moved with her family from Vancouver to Edmonton and then to Grande Prairie where she started school. She then moved to Burstall, Hilda and finally, Medicine Hat. This was home to her family. Judy’s working career started at the Shell Travel Inn restaurant. She also worked for a Call Centre answering phones, at Suffield in the kitchens and the DRES Club, and at Deluxe Cabs as a dispatcher. Finally, she became employed at Central Park Lodge (now Riverview). This is where she found her niche being a people person. She achieved her Nurse’s Aide and HCA (health care aide) certificates and was working in the recreation department at the time of her stroke. She was very proud to have recently received her 25-year pin from the Riverview staff. The family wishes to thank Riverview staff/friends for the excellent care and attention Judy received from everyone. Daily visits, encouragement and time spent going on/off shift certainly made a difference over the past six months. Any visit was encouraging to her, especially Barb, Debbie, Celeste, Carol and Lena to name just a few, though there are many more. As a family we wish to thank you all for your friendship and care Judy received before and during her time of illness. A job well done people, be proud of yourselves. Judy was a member of Eastern Star along with her mom. She was a single mom who was grateful for the support she received over the years from her parents, Edna and George.
Rose Christine Hubbard
August 30, 1921 – June 21, 2013
Our mother, Rose Christine Hubbard, went to be with the Lord on June 21, 2013 at the age of 91 with her youngest daughter Michele by her side. She will be lovingly remembered by eight children: John (Mabel Schafer), Medicine Hat, AB; Judy Bastura (Stan), Taber, AB; Dorothy Hicks (David), Moose Jaw, SK; Margo Krecsy (Mark), Regina, SK; Jeanne Hoag (Dale), Moose Jaw, SK; Gordon (Val), Regina, SK; Perry (Debbie) Kipling, SK; Michele Crabtree (John), Medicine Hat, AB; twenty-six grandchildren; forty-one great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren; sister-in-law Marie Vedres, Lethbridge, AB; son-in-law Norman Hull, Redcliff, AB; numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.
Mom was born in Atwater, SK on August 30, 1921 and lived in various areas of Saskatchewan during her upbringing. She and her husband Lowell were married October 21, 1940 at Lake Lenore, SK. They moved to southern Alberta in 1941 and eventually settled in Lethbridge, AB. In 1963 Lowell joined the ministry of the United Church of Canada serving pastoral charges in Gravelbourg, Marquis, and Kipling, SK. In 1980 they moved back to Alberta to Coaldale, then to Lethbridge; and finally moving to Medicine Hat in 1990 where she has resided ever since.
Rose joined the United Church in 1947 and until recently was a very active member. She was a chartered member of the Lethbridge First United Church U.C.W., held offices as an elder, delegate to Presbytery and Conference, U.C.W., president, unit president, treasurer, catering convener and executive of Presbytery Mission, Stewardship and Finance. She sang in church and community choirs and helped with Sunday school, Youth Groups, and cooked at Church Camps. She was also a member of many community service groups: Willing Workers in Grantham, AB, Ladies Aid and Royal Purple in Milk River, Legion auxiliary and Hospital Guild in Kipling, and kitchen convener at the Coaldale Senior Citizens organization. She was a member of the Life Goes On Group in Medicine Hat after Dad’s passing.
Mom loved serving others and her community volunteering at the Hospital and Neighbourhood Kitchen in Medicine Hat. Although Mom loved serving others, her greatest joy was being a loving wife and mother, grandmother, great grandmother, special aunt and friend. Not only did she raise a large family of her own, she fostered two babies and a 10 year old girl. Mom always had room for one or several more and enjoyed the many visits from family and friends. She loved to cook and bake, sew, crochet, play cards and games, read and write. In 2012 “The Caboose Story” was completed and published for the enjoyment of family and friends. Mom had an amazing memory and never forgot a birthday, anniversary or special occasion. She loved all sports and enjoyed watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren play. The Blue Jays were her favorite baseball team and even while hospitalized she enjoyed watching them, especially pleased they had won 8 in a row! After their retirement, Mom and Dad enjoyed traveling. They went to California and took numerous camping trips but their most meaningful vacation was to the Holy Land. After Dad’s passing, Mom continued traveling via Greyhound bus earning the nickname “rambling Rose” by her many relatives who welcomed her visits. Mom was always there when we needed a hand with babysitting or moving and travelled between our homes for special events and ceremonies. Mom had strong Christian values and believed in the power of prayer. She had strong faith, unwavering devotion and love that never ended. She will be dearly missed!
Albert Ole Hermanson
March 3, 1943 – May 22, 2013
It is with deep and heavy hearts we announce the passing of Albert Ole Hermanson who lost his brief but courageous battle with cancer on May 22nd, 2013 at the age of 70.
Albert leaves a big hole in the hearts of his loving wife, Louise of 36 years, and his children, Alice and Brian Lee (Tyler, Trevin, Travis), Deanna Rivard Hermanson (Olivia, Beaudrie, Kennedy), Derek and Tammy Foster (Alaiya, Blair, Carter, Brooklyn), Brad and Kelly Hermanson (Kadence, Katelynn). Albert was predeceased by his parents, Ole and Margaret Hermanson; in-laws, August and Viola Molitor; and siblings, Paul, Jimmy, William, Freddie, and Benny. He is survived by Henry and Sharon, Carl, Margaret, Lilian, Anne, Evelyn and Dwayne, Kay and Vic Christman, Marvin and Deanna Molitor, Wayne and Gwen Molitor, Bill and Linda Koehler, Marlene Edel and their families.
Albert was born on March 3rd, 1943 spending his younger years and early adulthood in Carbon, Alberta until moving to Medicine Hat in 1974 and working for McMillian Transport until 1976. He then moved on to Joyline Transport (Flint) from 1976 to 2010 as a heavy duty mechanic. Albert then passed time working as security at the drag strip or working the bar at the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede. He was a family man and his family always came first with his wife, kids and grandkids who always brought a sparkle to his eyes. Albert never missed a family function and was not afraid to twist his hips on the dance floor. He was known to many and loved by all never being able to walk into a room without someone knowing him. Albert loved to work in his garage tinkering and making sure his tools were all cleaned and put back where they belonged. Everyone knew that if something was wrong with their vehicle they could bring it to Albert and he could fix it. He took great pride helping his grandsons work on their vehicles fixing what needed to be fixed or teaching them to do it themselves.
Albert will be missed by everyone who had the honor to know him, and special friends, Dennis and Darlene McKay, Louie Dick, Harvey and Cathy Martin, and Bob and Sandy Belanger.
James Ronald Henderson
December 17, 1928 – April 18, 2013
It is with great sadness we mourn the passing of our father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Ron, on Thursday, April 18th, 2013 at the age of 84 years. Ron was born December 17th, 1928 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, grew up in Simmie and Golden Prairie, Saskatchewan in a very large, loving family who taught him the values of hard work, kindness, generosity and community.
He moved to Medicine Hat in the early 1950’s, married Agnes Devalter in 1952 and later that year they moved to Eureka, California to install fire alarms with his brother in-law and sister, Lyle and Margaret Smith. In 1953, Ron and Agnes returned to Medicine Hat where he operated the Koffee Kup corner store in the Flats area of the city. He built a larger store in the same location which was known as Ron’s Grocery and he remained in the grocery business until 1975. Ron was very generous and helped many people in the community during this time. Following the sale of the grocery store, Ron, his mother Florence and brother Gerry, opened Henderson Realty which later became Century 21 Henderson Realty. Following his retirement from the Real Estate business, Ron settled in the Flats area and enjoyed fishing and gardening. Ron was an avid crib player and would always look forward to visitors dropping by for a game. He was very proud of all his siblings, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and always shared stories of what they were doing and all their achievements. Ron also loved to tease his grandchildren, and would often ask them if they were working yet, when some of them were only 2 or 3 years old. He was kind and generous to all and will be missed by many.
Ron leaves to cherish his memory seven children, Lynn (Mike) Durbeniuk, Rud (Doreen) Henderson, Laurie (Trish) Henderson, Kevin (Patty) Henderson, Debbie (Wayne) Keetley, Grant (Karen) Henderson and Randy (Rose) Henderson; seventeen grandchildren, Alecia (Evan), Alana (Greg), Kristi (Hendrik), Brandi (Miles), Travis (Michelle), Tania, Nathan (Catherine), Jennifer, Jodi, Dylan, Shayne, Garet, Tiffany, Katie, Landon, Mendi-Lee, and Dallas; nine great grandchildren, Cordelia, Bianca, Nicolaas, Micah, Zachary, Cambria, Sienna, Chael and Caden; five brothers, Dub (Gwen), Larry (Vera), Bob, Albert (Donna), and Gerry (Theresa); sister-in-law, Vi Henderson; ex-wife and friend, Agnes Henderson (Devalter) and Tino and Marg Devalter. He was predeceased by his parents, Rudyard and Florence Henderson; two sisters Margaret Smith and Vernette Allison; brother, Edmund (Ed); sister-in-law, Lynn Henderson; brothers-in-law, Lyle Smith and Les Allison; and in-laws, Sante and Amelia Devalter. He was predeceased by his companion and friend for many years, Betty Arndt and also leaves her children and grandchildren to cherish his memory.
Helen “Elle” Isabelle (Fowlie) Hern
July 12, 1915 – February 12, 2013
Helen “Elle” Isabelle (Fowlie) Hern passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 12th, 2013 at the age of 97 years. Helen leaves to cherish her memory three sons: Jimmy (Carol) of Bindloss, their children, Jay (Chris) of Bindloss, Craig (Stephanie) of St. Joseph, Minnesota and their children Colton & Norah, and Leanne Hern of Edmonton; Benny (Kathy) of Medicine Hat, their children, Casey (Mandi) of Medicine Hat and their children Austin & Nicholas, and Vandy (Trevor) Bishop of Medicine Hat and their children Kane & Diesel; and Allan (Cathy) of Turner Valley. She is also survived by her brother, Frank Fowlie of Medicine Hat; and her brother-in-law, Maynard Hern of High River. Helen was predeceased by her husband, Bennie Hern; her parents, William and Christine Fowlie; three brothers, William, Jack, and George; brother and sisters-in-law, Roy and Vera Hern, Gordon and Mildred Fraser, Mary Hern, Helen, Luana and Doris Fowlie.
Helen was born on the family farm 13 miles south of Bindloss, Alberta on July 12th, 1915. She attended the Social Plains School up to grade nine, and after finishing her high school at Lealand, she attended business school in Medicine Hat. A few years later, wishing to pursue a nursing career, Elle enrolled in the Medicine Hat nursing program, graduating in 1941. Shortly after graduation, Helen accepted a position at the Empress Hospital and it was there that she met Bennie Hern whom she married on November 11th, 1942. While living in Empress, Helen had her three sons, Jimmy, Benny, and Allan. In 1950, Ben was promoted to a locomotive engineer and moved his young family to Calgary. Helen and Ben shared a dream of owning their own ranch, and in 1962 their dream became reality. In the summer of that year, they purchased the Red Jacobson ranch in the Bindloss area, located two miles west of the Fowlie homestead. Being a tomboy growing up, Elle knew a great deal about horses, cattle, and farm life in general. She worked long hours on the ranch: riding, fencing, haying, feeding cattle, gardening, canning and cooking. All three boys became professional rodeo cowboys, so most of Helen and Ben’s social life was travelling to rodeos to watch the boys. In 1980, Ben and Helen moved to Medicine Hat. Sadly, Ben passed away in 2007, and in December 2008 Helen moved into the Riverview Nursing Home. When Elle retired to Medicine Hat she loved to golf, bowl, play cards, sew, do volunteer work, travel, read, socialize with friends and watch her grandchildren’s sporting events. She was an accomplished seamstress, often making her own patterns, when sewing clothes for herself or her grandchildren. Helen enjoyed going to her sons’ ranches, helping where she could, especially during calving season. Loving horses, Mom also enjoyed attending horse shows with her daughter-in-law, Cathy. One of the highlights of Elle’s life was celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Fowlie Farm in the summer of 2011.
To keep in touch with the medical profession, Helen served many years on the Empress Hospital Board. Mom loved nursing, especially the hands-on care she provided for her patients. An event she looked forward to every March was the Medicine Hat Nurses’ Reunion. Last year being 96, she was the oldest graduate in attendance. Her brother, Frank Fowlie, who is 95, was her best friend, faithfully visiting every week. During visits they played competitive crib games, with loonies being passed back and forth between them. To pass time in the nursing home, Elle became an avid reader, and literally read hundreds of novels. Helen was a dedicated mother, with her whole life centered around her family. She was an amazing woman: thoughtful, kind, caring and generous. When we think of the changes that Helen had seen in her lifetime of almost 100 years, we were all amazed at how young-minded she was and how willing to accept change. We all loved the stories she told and were again amazed at the details she could remember right up until her passing. When dealing with her health issues, Helen never complained, had an incredible will, and never lost her sense of humor, often making us all chuckle.
The family would like to thank Anne Marie and her girls from the Compassionate Companions who went beyond their duties to enrich Helen’s life, and also the caregivers at the Riverview Nursing Home who showed such love and kindness toward Helen. Helen’s children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends will dearly miss her, but we are comforted with all the great memories that we have of mom and we will cherish them forever. When someone lives almost a century, Helen’s passing should be a celebration for the many years that she so positively touched all our lives. Mom and grandma, we love you and will never forget you!
Kathleen Resch
1939 – February 28, 2013
Mrs. Kathleen Resch, beloved wife of Mr. Charles “Chuck” Resch of Medicine Hat, passed away on Thursday, February 28th, 2013.
The Funeral Service was held Tuesday, March 5, at Westminster United Church.
Memorial gifts in Kathleen’s memory may be made to Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre or to the Palliative Care Unit of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital.
Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Kathleen Resch.
Marion McNeill
1928 – February 13, 2013
Mrs. Marion McNeill of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Mr. Don McNeill, passed away on Wednesday, February 13th, 2013 at the age of 85 years.
Marion leaves to cherish her memory four children, Stan (Glenna) of Empress, Patti (Peter) Wilson of Vancouver, Grant (Benita) of Outlook, Saskatchewan, and Sherry (Ernst) Jensen of Empress; ten grandchildren, Gina (Mike), Devin (Danielle), Malcolm (Nicole) and her children Cash and Carter, Alexis, Charlie, Jordan (Justin) and her son Kohen, Erin, Mackenzie, Jette-Marie (Chris), and Kirsten.
Bertha Evelyn Mehrer (Eliasson)
August 1, 1917 – February 8, 2013
Bertha Evelyn Mehrer (Eliasson) passed away peacefully at the age of 95 years at Riverview Care Centre on Friday, February 8th, 2013. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Paul Mehrer; her daughter, Doreen (Jim) Schank; her sons, Carl (Jean) Eliasson, Gerald (Bernadette) Eliasson and Olaf (Betty) Eliasson; as well as her grandchildren, Kim, Carrie and Jason; Douglas and Tim; Dorothy Anne and Jody; Jim and Tracy. She is also survived by numerous great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. Mom was predeceased by her husband of 36 years, Nick Eliasson; her parents, Irven and Cassie Chesley; her sisters, Hattie Chesley, Isabel Matley and Maye Taylor; her brother, Phelps Chesley; and her grandson, Gerry Jr. Eliasson.
Mom was born on August 1st, 1917 in Nokomis, Saskatchewan, eventually moving to Medicine Hat in the fall of 1951. As an active member of Westminster United Church, she willingly served the congregation in as many ways as needed and was a proud member of the Electra UCW. She loved time in her garden, took great pride in her flowers, and cherished her time spent outside reading while enjoying a cup of tea. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren will always be thankful for countless hours spent with her, be it dancing while she played the accordion, precious one-on-one time, or listening while she told us stories and taught us our proper manners.
After many years of being a widow, Mom was fortunate enough to meet Paul, who became her second husband in 2004. They enjoyed each other’s company up until the time of her passing. We, the family of Bertha, would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff at Riverview Care Centre who went above and beyond and treated Mom with kindness, compassion, love and dignity.