March 30, 2016

By Obituaries on March 30, 2016.

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1924 ~ SCHMIDT ~ 2016

Harry Henry Schmidt of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Remona Schmidt, passed away on Friday, March 25th, 2016 at the age of 91 years. Harry leaves to cherish his memory his son, Rodney (Ivy) Schmidt of Sandy Point, Alberta; three grandchildren, Keith Schmidt of Lloydminster and his children, Zachary and Taya, Kelly Schmidt of Medicine Hat, and Kane (Tanya) Schmidt of Rosetown, Saskatchewan and their son, Alexander and Kane's daughter, Jennica Bacon; one sister, Jean (Harvey) Merritt of Saanich, BC; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Harry was predeceased by his wife, Remona; his parents, Henry and Helen Schmidt; and his son, Warren Schmidt. Harry was born in Empress and was raised and educated in the Sandy Point area. At the age of 18, his father passed away and he assumed the responsibility of running the family farm. He met Remona in Irvine and they were married in 1949 continuing to farm at Sandy Point. In 1957, they built a home in Medicine Hat, but in 1970 they returned to the farm and built the Sandy Point Service Station which they operated until late 1982. In 1980, they had built another house in Medicine Hat which would become their retirement home. Harry will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Wednesday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL on Thursday, March 31st, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Gary W. Goran officiating. Interment will follow in the family plot at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Harry's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Society, #201, 770 – 6th Street SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4J6 or to the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, 666 – 5th Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4H6. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Harry Schmidt. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION CENTRE, "The Chapel in the Park", locally owned and directed. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone (403)528-2599

1930 ~ FREITAG ~ 2016

Arnold Frank Freitag, beloved husband of Frieda Freitag of Medicine Hat, passed away on Saturday, March 26th, 2016 at the age of 85 years. Arnold also leaves to cherish his memory his two sons, Wayne (Marla) Freitag and Gordon (Alda) Freitag; four grandchildren, Payton Freitag, Lincoln Freitag, Justin Freitag and Britt Goddu; two brothers-in-law, Gust Stojke and Herbert Stojke (Julie Hrup); one sister-in-law, Lydia Traichel; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Arnold was predeceased by his parents, Adolf and Rosalia Freitag; two sisters, Irene (Roy) Fischer and Violet (Albert) Kundert; one grandson, Dustin Goddu; and two sisters-in-law, Irene Stojke and Marj Stojke. Arnold was born on April 30th, 1930 in Medicine Hat, AB and soon moved to Richmound. He attended Oasis School, at first only speaking German. It was not long before his parents started him in his career as a farmer. He liked to work for himself, independent and free, an avid do-it- yourself person. In 1961 he married Frieda Stojke and they lived on their farm near Richmound. He enjoyed farming; even more so getting his boys into farming and watching them with their successes and failures. He enjoyed people, especially children which were attracted to him for continuous teasing and whisker rubs, and going for morning coffee, armed with his toothpick. Being community minded, he was involved in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, the Local School Board, was a RM Councillor, a Lions Club member as well as a curler and a bowler. After retiring to Medicine Hat in 1992, Arnold resumed his passion for the saxophone, playing in the church band as well the choir and enjoying his new community and friends. He loved the Lawrence Welk Show. His hobby was spending hours in the garage making wooden crafts on his scroll saw and lathe and making trips back to the farm checking on his boys. In December 2010 he lost his independence due a stroke which left him in a wheelchair and unable to speak. Frieda’s role changed and she became his faithful visitor and companion for the 5 years he was at the seniors’ home; Arnold would wait for her at the front door when he was able and he appreciated her affectionate goodbyes. He did what he could and was frustrated not being able to communicate well but still enjoyed people. On March 26 his frustration ended. Rest in Peace Arnold. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2793 Southview Drive SE, on Thursday from 12:30 until 1:25 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH, on Thursday, March 31st, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. with Reverend Jim Bredeson and Diaconal Minister Lila de Waal co- officiating. A private interment will take place at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Arnold's memory may be made to Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, 124, 430 – 6th Avenue SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 2S8. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Arnold Freitag. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION CENTRE, "The Chapel in the Park", locally owned and directed. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone (403)528-2599

1932 ~ BOKSTEYN ~ 2016

John (Johannes) Boksteyn, beloved husband of Mary Thompson-Boksteyn of Medicine Hat and of the late Yvette Boksteyn, passed away on Friday, March 25th, 2016 at the age of 83 years. John also leaves to cherish his memory his four sons,
Rick (Linda)
and their sons, Derik and Ben (Janae),
John (Deidra)
and their children, Sommer-Lee, Ashley (Craig) and John Cameron (Brittany),
Brad
and his son, Rylan (Jazmine) and
Michael (Deborah)
and their son, James; his daughter-in-law, Gwynn Boksteyn (Bob Wagner) and her children, Justin (Jill) and Jenna (Joanna); two great-grandchildren, Jaymes and Nixon; one brother, Johan Boksteyn-Vander Kooy; one sister, Niesje (John) Vander Nuelen; Yvette’s sister-in-law, Marjorie and her children; and Mary's children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John was predeceased by his first wife, Yvette; his son, Daniel John Boksteyn; his father, Johannes Bokstein; his mother and step-father, Helena and Frederick Vander Kooy; and two brothers, Aart and Pieter; as well as Yvette’s family: her parents, Panphile and Violet Dufort; one brother, Victor; and one sister in early childhood.
John immigrated to Canada from Holland in 1954 and met his young love, Yvette Dufort and they were married in 1955. Together they raised five sons and were blessed with nine grandchildren. During this time, John was employed with the City of Medicine Hat for 30 years where he held various rewarding positions including police officer, recreation director, Medicine Hat centennial planner and Arena manager. Yvette supported John’s career inspirations and she passed away in 2003.
Many people referred to John as “Big John”. To many, John was a man whose voice alone meant business but he was also known to others as being a very generous person with a huge heart. John spent the majority of his adult years dedicated to community service, serving on numerous community boards and volunteering with numerous organizations. His desire to enrich the community began with the Royal Life Saving Society of Canada and he continued to serve time with organizations such as the Alberta Marlin Aquatic Club, Youth Justice, The Kidney Foundation and St. Vincent de Paul Society. He also served a term as school board trustee with the Catholic School district and provided excellent leadership for 18 years on the Palliser Health Authority. Additionally, John organized the first Dutch Canadian Society meeting in 1982 and continued as an active member even in poor health. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. John truly believed he was his brother’s keeper.
John married his second wife, Mary Thompson on November 27th, 2004. Together they enjoyed almost 12 years of marriage. John especially enjoyed their new home and spending the winter months in Mexico. Together they loved spending time at the beach with their Mexican friends whom referred to John as “Juanote”. Often, many friends and relatives would plan trips to Mexico to visit John and Mary. John thoroughly loved the playful children and enjoyed taking part in the water activities.
Out of all the roles and responsibilities that John fulfilled over the years, none were more important than his role of “Opa”. John loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren from both the Boksteyn and Thompson families. He had a unique and special relationship with each grandchild and great grandchild.
John was very dedicated to his Dutch heritage and had made numerous trips to Holland. He was especially proud to introduce Yvette to Holland as well as his oldest son Dan, wife Gwynn and their children, as well as his youngest son, Mike. It was equally as important for John to take Mary to Holland soon after they were married and most recently he returned to Holland with two adult grandchildren. His family and close friends may remember many of his Dutch traditions. One of which was celebrating New Year’s Day, Dutch style, where he opened his home to many family and friends with Olle Bollen and his tasty Pea Soup. John appreciated all of his long-time friends, particularly, Ted Grimm, Mel Schmidt and Noorali Bharwani.
Unfortunately John slipped on some ice in February of 2015 and his health declined after the fall. While in care John often said to Mary “let’s go home” and now Dad you are home!
The family would especially like to thank the staff from Riverview Care Centre for the excellent care and love that was demonstrated to John as well as the staff from Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, 2 North. Additionally a special thanks to Dr. Bharwani and Dr. Hirsch.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. PATRICK'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 238 – 2nd Avenue NE, on Thursday, March 31st, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. with Father John L. Maes, celebrant. A private interment will take place in the family plot at Hillside Cemetery. Memorial gifts in John's memory may be made to Kidney Foundation of Canada, 6007 – 1A Street SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0G5 or to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Canada, St. Patrick's Medicine Hat Conference, P.O. Box 24054 RPO Crestwood, Medicine Hat AB T1A 8M8 or to the Canadian Cancer Society, 102 – 1865 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 1Z8 or to a charity of one's choice. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading John Boksteyn. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION CENTRE, "The Chapel in the Park", locally owned and directed. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone (403)528-2599

AMAN

Susan Gail Aman passed away at the age of 45 years, beloved mother of Sabrina Lawrence. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Susan Aman, or you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com and leave a message of condolence.
Funeral Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

BERNHARD (BEN) WIELER

Our beloved husband and father has left us to go home to be with Jesus, our LORD and Saviour on March 24, 2016. After struggling for 24 days, Ben is now at peace within the loving arms of his heavenly Father. Bernhard Wieler was born on December 27, 1973 in Mexico. He was 42 years young.
He leaves behind his loving wife Emmi, his 5 children, Orland, Ruth, Andrew, Darlene and Nathan. He also leaves behind his parents, Klaas and Eva Wieler, his 3 sisters, Tina, Lisa (Willy) Loewen, Nettie, his 6 brothers, John (Tina), Jake (Tina), Klaas (Anna), Peter ( Maria), Corny (Trudy), Abe (Elizabeth) and numerous nieces and nephews. Ben was predeceased by a childhood sister, Eva.
Ben loved farming and being on the land was in his blood. He was a talented and versatile farmer & shared his skills with many. He worked for Ebel’s Desert Hill Farm for 17 years and gained much experience. Ben was a progressive farmer and eventually rented and bought his own land near Medicine Hat. He enjoyed his time at the auctions and felt comfortable and friendly with everyone. Ben and his family were very involved in their church. He was a man of faith and loved and enjoyed time with Emmi and the children…..especially camping holidays.
Ben will be dearly missed by all his family, including friends, neighbors and co- workers. Emmi and all their family will value the time and memories they had with him. Emmi especially will treasure the last 3 weeks God has given her to be near his side as a comfort and hope for him.
You will keep in perfect peace
him whose mind is steadfast,
because he trusts in you.
Trust in the LORD forever,
For the LORD, the LORD,
is the Rock eternal
Isaiah 26: 3,4
Memorial gifts in Ben Wieler’s memory may be made to
Cherry Coulee Christian Academy
Bag 10370, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0
The funeral service was held Easter Sunday March 27, 2016 at the Vauxhall Community Hall in Vauxhall, Alberta at 3:00 p.m.

HORON

Darryl Robert Horon passed away on Saturday March 26, 2016, at the age of 59 years, beloved husband of Margaret Horon. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON CHAPEL on Monday April 4, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant, David Townsend . As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, NWT & NU, 100 – 119 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 . To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Darryl Horon, or you may visit www. pattisonfuneralhome.com and leave a message of condolence.
Funeral Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

JAMES NATION HILLYER

July 8, 1974 – March 23, 2016
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden death of JAMES (JIM) NATION HILLYER, on Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at age 41 years, in Ottawa, ON. Jim is the beloved husband of Olivia Dawn (Boehme), and proud father of their children London, Taylor, Nation, and Asia.
He will be remembered by his loving parents Jim and Marianne Hillyer, 13 siblings, their spouses and many, many nieces and nephews. Also, by his in-laws Val and Vivian Boehme, Livi’s five siblings and their families, plus the extensive Hillyer, Schimanski, Boehme, and Brown families.
Jim was born in Lethbridge, AB on July 8, 1974, ironically on the day that saw our current governing party re-elected to Canada’s Parliament with a Trudeau at the helm. Raised in Southern Alberta, he eventually settled in Raymond with his family, after earning a BA in Philosophy, MA in Political Economy, and completing advanced PhD studies in Constitutional Law. A federal politician, entrepreneur, business consultant, published author and documentary producer, Jim learned early in life that with hard work, tenacity, and conviction all things are possible.
The love of his life is Livi, his high school sweetheart, who he met at the foot of the floodlights, just off Broadway (N Raymond), when the two had starring roles in the community theatre musical production of The Music Man. Jim and Livi were married on August 25, 1995 at the Alberta Cardston Temple, just six weeks after he completed a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Eastern Ontario and Quebec. Their journey together took them to many points in western Canada and the USA, as Jim pursued his education, business opportunities and political objectives. Having had 18 different residential addresses during 20 years of marriage, Livi was more than happy to finally settle in Raymond to raise their four children.
A man of deep faith, Jim survived leukemia in 2003, putting him back on track to pursue his lifelong dream of serving in Canada’s Parliament. In May 2011 he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Lethbridge, and re-elected to the new Medicine-Hat-Cardston-Warner constituency in October 2015. Even after nearly five years on ‘the Hill’ he would say, “my heart still swells with humility and gratitude when I walk to work and see the Canadian flag waving above the Peace Tower.”
As a Member of Parliament, Jim had many fine moments, the greatest of which came from the Blackfoot Canadian Cultural Society in February 2013, when he was honoured with the indigenous name Api Stamiik (White Buffalo Bull Calf) ‘Protector of the People’ recognizing his years of support for First Nation’s people and their causes. Jim considered himself privileged to receive such a humbling and inspiring honour.
Active in the community, he had volunteered with minor hockey, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, and as a leader with Scouts Canada. He is a former member of the U of L Singers and violinist with the Lethbridge Symphony.
Jim believed that Canada is the greatest country on earth and that Southern Alberta is the best place to live and raise a family. The golden prairies, vast enough to see the Sweet Grass Hills on the east and Old Chief Mountain on the west, were a delight to his soul. He dedicated his life to inspiring people to learn and live the principles of freedom, happiness and prosperity. Jim will always be loved and deeply missed.
Friends may meet the family on Thursday, March 31, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Friday, April 1 from 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., followed by the funeral service 11:00 a.m. Location for all events: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Raymond Stake Centre, 2 North – 200 West, Raymond, Alberta.
The family appreciates all expressions of support and condolences and asks in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Hillyer Children Trust Fund c/o ATB Financial by quoting Transit 07349/ Institution 0219.
Messages of condolence may be sent to condolences@generationsfh.ca or to sign the electronic guestbook visit: www. generationsfh.ca. In Medicine Hat, a condolence book is available at MP Hillyer’s constituency office, located at 207 – 578 3rd St. SE during business hours.
Christensen Salmon Generations
403-382-3601

WEGENER

Rosemary Wegener passed away on February 15, 2016 at the age of 60years in Medicine Hat. At Rosemary's request there was no funeral service.