January 7, 2026

By Obituaries on January 7, 2026.

ELGIN MANN

ELGIN MANN 1935 ~ 2025 Elgin Basil Mann passed away at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the age of 90 years. He leaves behind his son, Elgin Junior and his family and many extended family members. From the early 50’s and 60’s, Elgin’s passion was music and he made many friends while he persued his dream. He played throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan with his two brothers, Melvin and Jimmy forming the band, ‘The Mann Brothers’. Elgin then went to Nashville to record his songs, including the well known, “It Takes A Good Woman.” His local recordings included, “White Mountain”, “North Star Terry Fox”, “92 Hat Tricks” and “Instrumental Pele”. In the 60’s and 70’s, he then worked as a handyman at the Park Lane and Catalini Hotels. Elgin was a man who was true to his word and was a loyal friend to many who will all miss him. A private service will be held in Elgin’s honour. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
http://www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”

ALFRED JAMES LINES

ALFRED JAMES LINES December 31, 1926 – December 29, 2025 Dr. Alfred James Lines of Medicine Hat, AB, went to be with the Lord, peacefully on Monday, December 29, 2025, with his family by his side. He was 2 days shy of turning 99.
Alfred (Jim) will be lovingly remembered by his children Mark (Louise), Joanne (Tony), Rachel (Bill), Catherine, Amy, Jolyon, and Jon, as well as the mother of his children, Ann Lines; sixteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11am at the St. James Anglican Church in Rivers, followed by a light lunch at the Rivers Canadian Legion. A private interment will follow.
A full obituary to follow soon.
Condolences: http://www.memorieschapel.com

ANNA UNGER

ANNA UNGER November 8, 1927 ~ December 23, 2025
Anna Unger (nee Schalkwyk) was born Anna Elisabeth Brandenburg on November 8, 1927 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and passed away at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the age of 98 years. She was the second child in a family of four. Her mother passed away in 1942, at the age of 45, after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Anna was 14 at the time, and her father eventually remarried a first cousin of her mother about 3 years later.
Anna studied to become a teacher, got her teaching certificate in 1947 and eventually got her Hoofd Onderwijzeres certificate (equivalent to a Master’s degree) in 1950 at the age of 23. In April 1951, she travelled all the way to Moengo, Suriname to teach in a Moravian Mission School for indigenous girls. A correspondence was begun with Leonard Theodoor Schalkwyk in Holland and they were engaged by mail in May 1952. In November 1952, she got a leave of absence from the school to travel back to Amsterdam and then an honourary discharge was granted two months later. She never returned to Suriname.
Anna did some substitute teaching in Amsterdam while Leo was completing his seminary studies at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam (after having studied 2 years in Switzerland at a Bible School and another 2 years in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania at a Moravian Seminary). They got married on November 30, 1954, moved to Krimpen aan de Lek to pastor a church from 1955 to 1957, and then a chaplaincy year from 1957 to 1958. In Krimpen, their first 3 children were born in 1956, 1957 and 1958.
In July 1958, the family travelled 10 days by boat and then by a series of flights across Canada to Duncan, BC to serve at a CRC church there from 1958 to 1962. They moved to the Calgary Emmanual CRC to pastor there from 1962 to 1966, Wellandport, Ontario (1966 to 1970), St. Thomas, Ontario (1970 to 1975), Williamsburg, Ontario (1975 to 1980), Collingwood, Ontario (1980 to 1982); Springdale CRC in Holland Marsh( 1982 to 1992), and finally arrived in Medicine Hat on June 30, 1992 to pastor the Medicine Hat Christian Reformed Church.
Anna lived in Chinook Village for 27 years, then moved to Revera Meadowlands in September 2018 and spent her last year at Sunnyside Care Centre in Medicine Hat.
Anna is predeceased by a son, Neil, in June 1978; her first husband, Leonard T. Schalkwyk in April 1993 and her second husband, Abe Unger in December 2016 (whom she married in February 1996).
She is survived by 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren: Rita Schalkwyk of Red Deer, AB and her family, Matthias (Kristy) of Crossfield, AB (Rory and Gavin), Hannah (Matt) of Red Deer, AB (Poppy, Hucksley, Milo); Hilary (Matt) of Smithers, BC (Salem, Gabriel, Hosanna, Ethan); Reuben (Lauren) of Red Deer, AB (Adelyn, Weston); Janelle (Brant) of Royal Leamington Spa, UK (Zephaniah, Thea); Micah (Robyn) of Red Deer, AB; Benji (Mandy) of Consecon, Ontario and Mitchell (Rebecca) of Drumheller, AB.; Len (Margaret) Schalkwyk of Denton, Texas; John Schalkwyk of Hamilton, Ontario and Cathie Schalkwyk of Lochem, the Netherlands (Robert, Jonathan).
Family wish to extend their heartfelt appreciation to friends and family for their sympathy, condolences, cards and flowers. A very special thanks to Ina Aasman and Alice Vis, who faithfully visited and assisted Mom in many ways from 2016 to 2025, after Abe passed away.
Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, January 10, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. with a committal service to follow. A Memorial Service will be held at Living Hope Church, 300 Primrose Drive S.E., Medicine Hat at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Kevin VanderVeen officiating. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com ) Honoured to serve the family is
Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
http://www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”

ELIZABETH JACKEL

ELIZABETH JACKEL 1946 ~ 2026 Elizabeth Jackel, beloved wife of the late Vern Jackel, passed away peacefully at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the age of 79 years. Elizabeth’s memory will be forever cherished by her family: daughter, Sharon and son, Mark (Shelly); grandchildren, Mikala (Calvin) and Colby as well as one great-granddaughter, Kennah. Along with Vern, she was predeceased by one son, Steven as well as one grandson, Christopher. Elizabeth was born in Northern Ireland and immigrated to Canada at the age of 18. Her friendly nature and outgoing personality made her a pleasure to be around. She enjoyed spending time with those closest to her as well as her furry friends at home. Family wish to extend their appreciation to the nurses and staff at Sunnyside for the compassionate care they provided to Elizabeth during her time there. A Come and Go Celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held at Milestones, 937 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
http://www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”

RODNEY HARRY “ROD” SCHMIDT

RODNEY HARRY “ROD” SCHMIDT 1950 2026 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rodney Harry Schmidt, aged 75, who left this world on January 3, 2026, in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Born on October 3, 1950, in Empress, Alberta, Rod was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather who touched the lives of all who knew him. Rod was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harry and Remona Schmidt, whose guidance and love shaped the man he became. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Ivy Schmidt, a partnership characterized by unwavering support and deep affection. Their marriage, which began on August 4, 1972, was a beautiful journey filled with shared dreams, laughter, and an unbreakable bond. Together, Rod and Ivy raised three wonderful children: Keith, Kelly, and Kane (Tanya). Rod took immense pride in his family, and his legacy continues through his grandchildren, Jennica Bacon, Alexander Schmidt, and Zach and Taya Schmidt. Rod was known for his hard work and loyalty. As a smart businessman and a provider for his family, he embodied the spirit of hotel owner and farmer: a “Jack of All Trades.” He had a passion for travel, often taking his family on adventures that created lasting memories. Fishing was another of Rod’s great loves; always hoping for the next big catch. He also enjoyed attending auctions, where he would eagerly seek out hidden treasures. These hobbies reflected his zest for life and his adventurous spirit. Rod’s life will be celebrated at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Friends and family are welcome to join in remembering the legacy of a man who devoted his life to his loved ones and left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Rodney Schmidt. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL
CHAPEL CREMATORIUM &
RECEPTION CENTRE,
“The Chapel in the Park
#1 Dunmore Road SE,
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5
(403)528-2599
http://www.saamis.com
inquiry@saamis.com
Locally owned and directed
CGR Holdings Ltd.

ROY SUTHERLAND

1958 ~ ROY SUTHERLAND ~ 2026 Percy “Roy” Sutherland of Medicine Hat, passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the age of 67 years. Roy is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathy Sutherland; children, Percy (Roxy), Crystal, and Jeremy (Christine) Sutherland; five grandchildren, Mackenzie, Aaryn, Kaiden, Tyrell and Christopher; one great grandchild, Presley; sisters, Sherry (Ed) Larson, Catherine Kearsley and Karen (Henry) Coehoorn; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Roy is predeceased by his parents, Percy and Marguerite Sutherland; mother-in-law, Clara Anhelher; brother, Glen Sutherland and sister, Darlene Copeland. Roy enjoyed fishing, camping and working on vehicles. He was very fond of animals and his family. Roy was a long-time employee of Badger Daylighting before retiring. He was a very good cook. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Medicine Hat S.P.C.A., 55 Southview Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Roy Sutherland. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL
CHAPEL CREMATORIUM &
RECEPTION CENTRE,
“The Chapel in the Park
#1 Dunmore Road SE,
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5
(403)528-2599
http://www.saamis.com
inquiry@saamis.com
Locally owned and directed
CGR Holdings Ltd.

CLARA ANHELHER

1944 CLARA ANHELHER 2026 Clara Anhelher (nee Mastel) passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on January 4, 2026, at the age of 81 years. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Kathy Sutherland and William Anhelher; grandchildren, Percy (Roxy), Crystal, Jeremy (Christine), Marshall, and Casey; five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; one brother and two sisters; one brother-in-law and three sisters-in-law, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Clara was predeceased by her husband, Dale; daughter, Dawn Marie; son-in-law, Roy; parents, Michael and Annie Mastel; four brothers and one sister, as well as numerous brothers and sisters in law. Clara greatly enjoyed the outdoors, and she loved camping and gardening. As well as enjoying the outdoors she also enjoyed cooking and playing games and cards. A dedicated worker, she worked for the hospital for 20 years. Clara’s family was everything to her and she was everything to them- she was a very good mom. We all love you, Mom. God Bless. Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 7:00 pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church, 238 2 Ave NE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 am with Father Paolo Cervantes, celebrant. Interment at Hillside Cemetery will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Clara’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Clara Anhelher. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL
CHAPEL CREMATORIUM &
RECEPTION CENTRE,
“The Chapel in the Park
#1 Dunmore Road SE,
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5
(403)528-2599
http://www.saamis.com
inquiry@saamis.com
Locally owned and directed
CGR Holdings Ltd.

EDITH BURNISTON

EDITH BURNISTON 1925 ~ 2026 Edith Mary Burniston, beloved wife of the late Lawrence “Larry” Burniston, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the age of 100 years. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant David Townsend officiating. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects may do so one hour prior to the service. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Edith’s obituary page on our website, for the link. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

SHELLEY HIRSCH

SHELLEY HIRSCH 1967 ~ 2026 Shelley Anne Hirsch of Medicine Hat, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at the age of 58 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

DARCY HOLT

DARCY HOLT 1962 ~ 2026 Darcy Scott Holt, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the age of 63 years. He leaves to cherish his memory, his stepfather, Ken Lacher; two siblings, Kim (Tony) Siwalowski and Troy (Robert) Lacher; three nieces; two nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother, Norma Lacher. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects may do so in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cremation has been entrusted to the Pattison Funeral Home and Crematorium. To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

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