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Medicine Hat Obituaries

1933 ~ Jose Cruz ~ 2024

Jose Cruz of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of Maria Cruz, passed away on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, at the age of 91 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Maria Cruz; sons, Joe (Nancy) Cruz and John Cruz; grandchildren, Zachary, Jack, Rosalind, Katie, David, CJ, and Jamie; brother, Manuel Cruz; sister, Frances Carvalho; sisters-in-law, Lucia Cruz, Angelina Lasqunha, and Eduarda Cruz; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Jose was predeceased by his parents, Manuel and Maria Cruz; brothers, Antonio Cruz, Jose Lasqunha, and Augustino Cruz. Jose was born in the town of Furnas in the Azores, Portugal to parents, Manuel and Maria. He worked with his father as a dairy farmer until immigrating to Canada in 1964. Upon arriving in Canada, he began working at CP Rail. Jose later worked with IXL, then joined the Labourers Union working on various industrial projects in southern Alberta. His final project was working to complete the Canadian Fertilizer Plant, after which he went on to join the maintenance crew at CF before retiring. He was a very hardworking man who always put his family first. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He also always had time for his nieces and nephews and looked forward to spending time with them. Jose enjoyed fishing, watching sports, and maintaining his lavish vegetable garden. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Monday, March 25th, 2024, at 7:00 pm. The Funeral will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE Medicine Hat, AB, on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024, at 1:00 pm with Fr. Iqbal Khurshid, Celebrant. Interment will follow in the Roman Catholic Section at Hillside Cemetery. If unable to attend the Vigil Rites (Prayers) or the Funeral, family, and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Jose’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Jose Cruz. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1933 ~ Ronald Thorson ~ 2024

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Ronald Neil Thorson announces his passing at the Pleasant View Lodge in Bow Island, on March 11th, 2024, at the age of 90 years. Ron was born in the nurses’ residence in Bow Island on July 6th, 1933, to Arthur and Edith (Hodgson) Thorson of the Winnifred district. Ron is survived by his children, Deanna, Douglas, Barb, and Darrel (Christina); as well as his grandchildren, Todd, Jackie (Beau), Morgan (Chad), Stacy (Jennifer), Jimmy (Rachel), Alexandra, and Emily (Blake); nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild! Ron lived on the family farm with his brother, Harold, and sister, Shirley (Mclean), located five miles south of Winnifred, Alberta. Ron was raised in a home without running water, indoor plumbing, electricity, telephone, or television – but with an electric fence telephone amongst neighbours! Ron attended school at a one-room school, Fairlight, located ¾ of a mile away. One year, the school didn’t have a teacher so Ron and his siblings attended the Catholic Convent School in Medicine Hat, living in the residence there. When school buses started running, Ron and his siblings attended Bow Island High School. Everyone worked hard on the farm, including Ron despite his very young age. Ron became a self-taught carpenter, electrician, and machinery operator by the age of 14. Also, at age 14, he won the Governor General’s Award for having the highest marks in the Provincial Exams in the County of 40 Mile. But, at the age of 16, he quit school, bought a water truck, and went up north to Redwater to haul water for the oil rigs and all earnings were sent home to help pay the farm bills. Ron met his future wife, Marilyn, at the age of 20 and they married two years later in 1955. They raised their four children and continued living in the original family house without any modern amenities until 1962. Ron and Marilyn built up a very successful farming operation with their son, Doug, until they sold the entire farm in 2017. At age 82, Ron finally retired. Ron and Marilyn were married for 63 years until Marilyn’s passing in 2018. Ron was an avid fisherman and fish farmer, stocking the famous Thorson dam every year from 1982 until 2020. Ron harvested as many as 1,700 trout one year and he and Marilyn did all the canning, smoking, and freezing and gave away these delicious treats to family and friends. He, along with help from family members and friends, built a beautiful campground at the dam complete with an irrigation system for grass and trees. Ron and Marilyn spent many summers there and hosted numerous parties and events for friends and families. Everybody who knew Ron and Marilyn have memories at “the dam”. Ron was a very good farmer but always said it was a little too dry or the prices could be a little bit better. He and Doug exceeded the area average for many years with diligence and good farming practices. Ron will always be remembered for his dedication to family, work, and community. His gentle spirit and generosity to friends and family were a hallmark of his life and legacy. In his later years, Ron loved to drive around the area checking out crops, walking out to assess moisture levels by poking his finger in the ground and shooting gophers. The country roads around Bow Island will be a little quieter this spring without Ron’s sharp eyes and 22 rifle instilling fear in the rodent community. A Celebration of Ron’s Life will be held at ST. ANDREW'S UNITED CHURCH, 139 – 2nd Avenue West, Bow Island, on Saturday, March 30th, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Bob Wallace officiating. A private interment will take place at Bow Island Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Ron’s memory may be made to the Bow Island and District Health Foundation, P.O. Bag 3990, Bow Island AB, T0K 0G0. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Ron Thorson. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1940 ~ Irene Hodges ~ 2024

Irene Elizabeth Hodges of Medicine Hat passed away on Monday, March 11th, 2024 at the age of 84 years. The Funeral Mass was held yesterday at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church at 1:00 pm with Fr. Vincent Tuan Ha, Celebrant. Memorial gifts in Irene’s memory may be made to Carmel Hospice at St. Joseph’s Home, 156 – 3rd Street NE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Irene Hodges. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1953 ~ Donna Ruff ~ 2024

With profound sadness - yet celebrating a life fully and beautifully lived - the family of Donna Ruff announces her passing into the arms of the Lord on March 9th, 2024. Born to Fred and Irene Mehrer in Medicine Hat, Alberta, on October 19, 1953, Donna's journey was one of love, devotion, and faith. Donna leaves behind her beloved husband of 52 years, Garry Ruff, with whom she shared a life full of love and adventure. Together, they nurtured and raised a family that includes her children, Jenn (Mike) Lembke, Sarah (Corey) Dowler, and Rod (Kate) Ruff. Donna's joy was multiplied by her grandchildren, Carter, Averie, Josiah, Abby, and Florence, who brought her immense happiness. Donna also leaves behind her dear sister, Linda (Garry) Bollinger, along with many cousins, nephews, and nieces who felt her love, generosity and prayers in many ways over the years. Donna is reunited in heaven with her parents, as well as her sisters, Dianne and Sharlene. Her life was a testament to her strong faith and commitment to Jesus Christ and her church community, where she loved to sing in choir and with her sister and cousin as part of Melody Three. Donna was richly blessed with a wide circle of friends, a testament to her exceptional ability to cultivate and maintain relationships. She was known for her attentive ear, her gift of evoking laughter, and her genuine love and steadfast support for all whom she cherished. An amazing host and cook, she delighted in bringing people together, savouring good food, and cherishing hours of heartfelt conversations with loved ones. She was an avid (and competitive!) pickleball player, enjoyed boating and spending time on Flathead Lake, golfing, and sharing these passions with Garry, her kids and grandkids, and her dear friends. Donna's vibrant spirit, positivity, and zeal for life enriched the lives of all who knew her. As we say goodbye to Donna, we also celebrate her remarkable life and the countless ways she showed us love and touched our lives. This celebration will be held in Hillcrest Church, 3785 13 Avenue SE, Medicine Hat, AB on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Steve Pahl officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.hillcrestchurch.net and joining the live webcast by clicking on the ”watch” tab at the above date and time. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Donna Ruff. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1933 ~ Jacob Penner ~ 2024

Jacob was born in the tiny village of Port Royal in Southern Ontario on December 17, 1933. Jacob’s parents, Jacob and Sarah Penner, new to Southern Ontario, homesteaded an 80-acre farm outside Port Rowan. Growing up on the farm meant chores and hard work. Jacob was the youngest of seven children. After completing Grade 9, Jake spent some years working on the farm and then, in 1956, he attended Bible School. After Bible School, he spent a year working, then he went to Bible College in Winnipeg where attendance was allowed even though high school was not complete. It was while he was in Winnipeg that he met Linda who was from Coaldale, AB, and on July 1, 1959, they were married in her hometown. After their wedding, they returned to Southern Ontario and Jake completed his high school education and then went on to Teacher’s College. He taught in St. Williams through to the end of 1964 when he moved his young family to the United States so that he could further his education at the university in Kansas. It was while attending school that he received his call to the church, and he took on the pastoring of several small churches. This was the beginning of what was to be his dual career path into his later years. Jake graduated with a BA Degree in English and the family returned to Port Rowan where he was a school principal from 1969 to 1978. During his tenure, he also completed his Bachelor’s of Education through the University of Toronto. In 1978, the family moved to Medicine Hat, AB where Jake took a position as the pastor at Crestwood Mennonite Brethren Church for four years before moving to Manitoba where he served as pastor to a number of congregations for several years. In 1995, Jake and Linda returned to Alberta and together, they served several years at Camp Evergreen in Sundre, AB. Eventually, they built a home in Seven Persons, AB and it was there that they spent their last years together. After Linda passed away on June 26, 2018, Jake, at 85 years, did his best to keep up the home and yard until 2021 when he moved to Chinook Village. Shortly thereafter, Jake suffered some medical setbacks and was then moved to Riverview Care Centre. His last days were spent in the care of their wonderful staff. Jacob was loved by and is survived by his three children, Mark (Debbie) Penner, Cathy (Walter) Friesen, and Lenore (Carl) Dyke; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Marie Penner of Port Rowan, ON and Helen Goertzen of Saskatoon, SK; brother-in-law, Neil Patterson of Calgary, AB; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. Jacob was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Linda; his parents; and his siblings. The Funeral Service will be held at Crestwood Church, on Sunday, March 17th, 2024, at 3:30 pm with Pastor Evan Beasley officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Jacob’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Jacob Penner. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1937 ~ Bruce Johnson ~ 2024

Bruce Hjalmer Johnson, aged 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at the Masterpiece Southland Meadows Retirement Home in Medicine Hat, Alberta. He leaves to cherish his memory his sisters, Jean Neiss and Gail Schewelah; his children, Bruce Jr. Johnson, Tammy Johnson, Rosetta (Kevin) Sanders, and Lana Johnson; his grandchildren, Lisa (Jeff) Burnett, Corrinn Curzon, Mathew (Yessica) Curzon, Robert Sanders, Keith (Laura) Sanders, Bailey Sanders, Jeff (Krista) Johnson, Hjelmer (Wendy) Johnson, Ryan Johnson; his great-grandchildren, Abella Burnett, Danya Burnett, Katie Burnett, Kylie Curzon, Kyra Curzon, Alice Hand, Mathew Curzon, Hugh Araya-Johnson, Lydia Araya-Johnson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and a large extended family. Bruce was predeceased by his partner, Beverly Ryan; spouse, Carol Johnson; his first wife, Lauree Sauter; his youngest, son, Keith Johnson; his brother-in-law, Doug Neiss; and his parents, Hjalmer and Rosetta Johnson. Bruce was born May 14, 1937 in Alix, Alberta. He and his two siblings were raised in Pees, Alberta, a farming community. Being raised on a farm provided Bruce with many various skills which he applied to welding and later as a machinist. Bruce lived a life full of travel and outdoor adventure. Bruce was an avid camper, forming friendships towing his Boler camper across Canada and the USA. Some of his most memorable hobbies include archery, race car driving, and flying his Aero Commander 100 plane. He will be remembered, however, for his personality. Bruce was headstrong, direct, a little bit cheeky, and always EARLY. The Funeral Service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE Medicine Hat, AB on Monday, March 11th, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Memorial gifts in Bruce’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society, 101-1201 Kingsway Avenue SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 2Y2 or the S.P.C.A., 55 Southview Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Bruce Johnson. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1944 ~ Sandra Ida McCollum ~ 2024

Sandra Ida McCollum passed away February 27th, 2024 peacefully with her family by her side. She will be lovingly remembered by the family she left behind: her siblings, Willie Matson and Margaret (Wayne) Robinson; children, Sharon (Kelvin), Johnson, Mark McCollum, and Adrienne (Greg) Howe; grandchildren, Samantha (Dan), Richelle (Myles), Tamara, and Chelsea; as well as great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Tyler, Liam, Ewan and Sterling. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Arthur McCollum; son, Brian McCollum; sisters, Beatrice Matson and Sylvia Doonan; brother-in-law, Bert Doonan; and nephew, Kelly Doonan. Sandra was the youngest daughter of Vilho and Helen Matson. She grew up on the farm that her grandparents, Ole and Helmi Matson, founded in Manyberries in 1909. She attended New Home school and graduated from Manyberries School. She managed the Orion Co-op and later began her nursing career at the Medicine Hat Hospital. She loved working at the hospital but when she wasn’t working you could find her spending time with family, gardening, camping and fishing. She will be dearly missed by many. There will be a casual luncheon to remember Sandra on Monday, March 4th, 2024 at the Moose Lodge, 901 8th Street SW, Medicine Hat, AB at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital NICU in remembrance of Sandra. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Sandra Ida McCollum. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1926 ~ Veronica Getz ~ 2024

Veronica Getz, beloved wife of the late Peter Getz, passed away Monday, February 26th, 2024. A Funeral Mass was celebrated yesterday at Holy Family Parish with Father Iqbal Khurshid, Celebrant. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Veronica Getz. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1946 ~ Lillian Betcker ~ 2024

Lillian Dianna Betcker (nee Kanewischer) of Medicine Hat passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 25th, 2024 at the age of 77 years. Lillian leaves to cherish her memory her children, Candi Betcker and Dixie Emary (Fabio); her grandchildren, Shannon (Dave), Lorissa (Kyle), Jennaya and Kierrah; four great-grandchildren, Kaleea, Randilynn, Bentley and Blake; her brother, Terry (Alma) Kanewischer; sister, Florence Oss; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Lillian was predeceased by her parents, Otto and Edna Kanewischer and her husband, Richard, on August 3rd, 2007. Lillian was born on June 23rd, 1946 in Medicine Hat, AB. On March 9th, 1973, she married the love of her life, Richard Betcker and together they raised their two daughters. Lillian enjoyed a busy and full life, balancing her family life with working outside the home. She worked at the City Café, the Grey Cup Café, and the German Harmony Hall throughout her lifetime. She loved children and for many years she helped with a dayhome as well as volunteering her time at Southview School. Lillian liked to spend time with friends and going for daily coffee dates with them. She was a giving person who found joy and comfort in helping others whenever she had the opportunity. When time allowed, she could often be found researching and learning about her family’s ancestry and heritage. Her love of family was her guiding light in life and she prioritized family gatherings. Time spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was of utmost importance. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Monday, March 4th, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 1:55 pm. The Funeral Service will follow at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL at 2:00 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Lillian’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Lillian Betcker. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1944 ~ Marlene McDonald ~ 2024

Marlene Ann McDonald of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Garry McDonald, passed away on Saturday, February 24th, 2024 at the age of 79 years. Marlene leaves to cherish her memory her children, Carol McDonald, Kathy Lavoie, Kevin Gallinger, Karen (DJ) Worrell, and Christina (Ryan) McNeil; grandchildren, Kayla Worrell, Miranda Nielson-Worrell, Jasmine McDonald, Ethan Gallinger, Jamie Lavoie, Justin Lavoie, and Jeremi Lavoie; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Sandra Abraham; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Marlene was predeceased by her husband, Garry; parents, Carl and Beatrice Siivonen; and brother, Thomas Siivonen. Marlene was a very supportive lady as well as an amazing mother figure. She loved fishing, camping, her friends, and enjoyed an evening out at bingo, but her absolute favorite thing was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will always be forever missed, forever remembered, and always in our hearts. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Marlene McDonald. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1930 ~ Errol Carruthers ~ 2024

Errol Webster Carruthers, beloved husband of the late Margaret Berger, died Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at Good Samaritan South Ridge Villa, Medicine Hat, AB. He will be missed by his siblings; Margaret Carruthers, Toronto, ON; Norman (Diana), Charlottetown, PE; Beth Cruickshank, Gravenhurst, ON; Doris (Bob May), Toronto, ON;, several nieces and nephews, and by his special friend, Ida Kenny, Edmonton, AB. He was predeceased by his sister, Esther Jorgensen; his brother: Clair Carruthers; by his brother-in-law, Jim Cruickshank; his brothers-in-law, Palmer and Overt Berger; and sisters-in-law, Adeline Stertz and Helen Berger. Errol was born in Summerside, P.E.I. on August 24, 1930, the eldest of eight children of the late Lorne and Jean (Webster) Carruthers. He was brought up on the family farm in Augustine Cove, P.E.I. and was educated in Augustine Cove’s two-room school, high school at Prince of Wales College in Charlottetown, Bachelor of Science at Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, and Master of Science at McGill University in Montreal. After graduation, Errol worked with Atomic Energy of Canada at Chalk River, ON. Later he taught high school at Deep River, ON. In 1965, Errol moved to Medicine Hat, AB to teach chemistry in the new Medicine Hat College. In retirement Errol enjoyed membership in the Golden K Kiwanis Club working mainly with young children. He also enjoyed the company of friends and travelling as well as golfing and curling. Errol was generous with his time in the community and in his church, Victory Lutheran. A celebration of Errol’s life will be held in Medicine Hat this Spring with details to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Errol’s memory may be made directly to: The Alzheimers Society of Alberta, # 101, 1201 Kingsway Ave SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 2Y2. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Errol Carruthers. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1936 ~ Edgar Jans ~ 2024

Edgar Jans, cherished husband of the late Loretta (Bauer) Jans of Medicine Hat, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at the age of 88 years. A Celebration of Life in honour of Edgar was held yesterday at VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH with Reverend Roland Weisbrot officiating. A private interment followed at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Edgar’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] with the subject heading "Edgar Jans." Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to

1946 ~ Guy Jean Pierre Vallender ~ 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Guy Jean Pierre Vallender on Tuesday, February 20th, 2024 at the age of 77 years with family and close friends by his side. Guy leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 50 years, Monique; daughter, Susanne (Mike) Holizki; and granddaughter, Celine. At Guy’s request, there will be no formal funeral service, but you are welcome to attend a “come and go” luncheon that will take place on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Redcliff Senior Centre, 629 1st Street SE, Redcliff, AB, in his honour. In lieu of flowers, donations in Guy’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Guy Vallender. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1929 ~ Irene Granger ~ 2024

Irene Granger was born on October 2, 1929, and passed away on February 11, 2024, at the age of 94 years. She was predeceased by her husband, Roger. Irene is survived by her sons and their families, Dennis (Carol), Bob (Anita), Gerald, and Larry (Susan); as well as seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one brother, Armand. The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Irene, like reading a good book or playing cards with friends. She was proud of her spotless house and her beautifully landscaped yard. She was generous, kind, and always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh. She also loved curling, as both a participant and then a spectator. St. Patrick’s Catholic Church was Irene’s church home for many years. Irene was the ultimate caregiver. She lovingly provided care to Roger even when his MS made it difficult. Irene and Roger were ardent Tiger Hockey fans. Many will remember the two of them in the wheelchair section of the arena during every game. Irene will be dearly missed, and her memory will live on in her family. May her memory forever be a blessing. A private family graveside will be held at Hillside Cemetery in the spring. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Irene Granger. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1984 ~ Michael Strong ~ 2024

With sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Strong, ending his battle with cancer in Medicine Hat on February 6th, 2024, at the age of 39 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his soulmate and life partner, Stephanie (Greene); his beloved son, Xander; mother, Judy; grandmother, Adeline; brothers, Kyle Peterson and Dyllon (Kendra Almon) McEwan; sister, Shea (Jodie) Meeks; best friend, Russel Henderson; as well as his precious dog, Cobalt. His memory will never be forgotten by his friends, extended family, and in-laws. Although we are at a loss without him, we are grateful that he now rests easy. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 29, 2024 at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB at 1:00 pm. Memorial gifts in Michael's memory may be made to AJ’s Loan Cupboard, P.O. Box 45006, MacKenzie Drug Post Office, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0B1. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Michael Strong. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1929 ~ Mark Hallick ~ 2024

Mary Hallick, late of Medicine Hat, AB passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024, at the age of 94 years at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Mary was born on October 24,1929 at the Tribune family farm. She was the sixth child of the family. Mary met Tony at the family farm in Tribune. Tony worked on family farms and became good friends with Mary’s brothers Paul, Bill, and Mike. Mary and Tony started spending time together. They went to many dances. On October 23, 1946, Mary and Tony were married at St. Mary’s church in Tribune. They farmed together near Weyburn for 40 years before selling the farm and retiring to Medicine Hat in 1990. Mary was known for her laugh and good sense of humor. She loved to garden. She sewed and mended clothes right up to the end. Mary loved her family and enjoyed it when family and friends came to visit. Mary was a wonderful cook and made sure you were well fed. She made the best perogies (grandchildren called her the “perogie queen”), cinnamon buns, and homemade buns. Mary loved her game shows and did not miss them very often. She was also known for her love of biking around the city. Mary spent the last five years at Revera Meadowlands. She enjoyed taking part in any music functions that took place and the bus outings. She loved participating in the bean bag toss tournaments; she wanted to be good at it. Mary is survived by her sons, Steven (Gloria) of Medicine Hat, Gord (Gail) of Edmonton, Glenn (Kim) of Weyburn, Brian (Carla) of Medicine Hat; daughter Bernice (Harold) Grane of Regina; nine grandchildren, Scot (Sue), Mark (Jen), Lane (Chelsea), Anthony (Whitney), Chelsea (Chris), Matthew (Carly), Aimee (Jon), Brianne (Andy), Dylan (Dana); ten great-grandchildren, Lily, Ethan, Grace, Claire, London, Archie, Hudson, Emric, Cooper, Harlow; numerous nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, John Franks; sister-in- law, Roberta Kyrylchuk; as well as many relatives, and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Tony; parents, Roman and Anna Kyrylchuk; her brothers, Paul (Anne), Bill (Clara) (Betty), Nick (Joan), Mike, John; her infant sister, Ellen; sisters, Stella Campbell (Gord), Joy Janeczko (Walter), Elizabeth Franks; and niece, Karen Zazula. We want to express our thanks to all the staff at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for the care they provided. A private family interment will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice in her honor. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Mary Hallick. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1923 ~ Aurora Anne Rose Wells ~ 2024

Aurora Anne Rose Wells, treasured daughter of Crystal Thompson and Brett Wells died peacefully in the arms of her family after two beautiful and unforgettable months. Aurora was the beloved sister of Emma and Wyatt as well as a cherished granddaughter of Issac (Barb) Wells and Faye Beazley. She was predeceased by her grandpa, Bob Beazley. A beautiful and happy baby girl who touched so many lives in such a brief time. During her brief visit on earth, she enjoyed listening to music, cuddling with soft toys, her “Paci”, and being held close by her parents. She was a brave fighter and was loved by all who met her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Memorial gifts in Aurora's memory may be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 569 4 Street SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4G2. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Aurora Wells. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1959 ~ Thomas Stevens ~ 2024

Thomas Reid Stevens passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 4, 2024 at the age of 64 years. A Graveside Service was held on Monday, February 12, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Hays Cemetery followed by a reception at the Hays Civic Centre. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, PO Box 460 STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading Thomas Stevens. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1935 ~ James "jim" Gaetz ~ 2024

James Pius “Jim” Gaetz of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Myrna Gaetz, passed away on Sunday, February 4th, 2024 at the age of 88 years. James leaves to cherish his memory his children, James (Glenda) Gaetz, Heather Ann Gaetz, Tom (Ingrid) Gaetz, and John (Michelle) Gaetz; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Margaret Gaetz; loving wife, Myrna; and two sisters, Kay Walchuk and Lee Haussecker. Jim was born and raised in Momart, SK. After marrying Myrna in 1955, they settled in Medicine Hat to raise their family. Jim worked at Goodyear for 14 years before opening his company, “Gaetz and Sons Construction”. Jim was a hard worker and remained in the construction industry for over 25 years. He loved to spend as much time as he could outdoors--spending his time in his yard, tending to his garden, and also hunting. He shared his love of the outdoors as a Boy Scout leader for many, many years. However, his priority was always his family first and he cherished time spent with them. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by his family and his many friends. A private family graveside will be held on Friday, February 16th, 2024. For those not in attendance, you are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Jim’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Memorial gifts in Jim Gaetz's memory may be made to Scouts Canada, 1345 Baseline Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K2C 0A7 or to the Alberta Fish and Game Association, 346 3rd St SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0G7. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to [email protected] subject heading James Gaetz. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

1936 ~ Donald Lafrance ~ 2024

Donald “Don” Raymond Lafrance of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of Patricia Lafrance, passed away on Sunday, February 4th, 2024, at the age of 88. A celebration of his life will be held in the spring. For Don’s full obituary, please visit www.saamis.com. Condolences may be left at www.saamis.com or emailed to [email protected] subject heading Donald Lafrance. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to