May 9, 2014
By Obituaries on May 9, 2014.
.1922 ~ BICKNELL ~ 2014Mrs. Audrey Rose Bicknell (also known as Audrey Dodd) of Medicine Hat passed away on Wednesday, May 7th, 2014 at the age of 91 years. Audrey leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Richard (Valerie) Bicknell and Stephen (Jackie) Bicknell; one daughter, Sylvia London; one step-son, Vern Dodd; one step-daughter, Bernice (Gary) Harding; four grandchildren, Adam Bicknell, Logan Bicknell, Ryan Bicknell and Amber Riese; two step-grandchildren, Denise Harding and Michael Harding; one great granddaughter, Brianna Riese; and one sister, June Leach. Audrey was predeceased by her first husband, William Bicknell; her second husband, Arthur Dodd; her parents, James and Mabel Murdoch; one daughter, Fay Eveline Bicknell; one brother, Les Murdoch; and one sister, Eveline Raher. Audrey was born on July 18th, 1922 at Empress, Alberta. She attended school at Forks and Leland High School, then at Calgary for normal school. Audrey taught school in Cavendish and at Social Plains School. She married William Bicknell in 1943 and together they lived in the Bindloss and Empress areas until William’s passing in 1976. Audrey married Arthur Dodd in 1979. After Arthur’s passing in 1994, Audrey remained in Empress until 2007, when she moved to Medicine Hat to be closer to her daughter. She was active in the Leland Ladies Club, the Anglican Church and sang in community events. The Funeral Service will be held in SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Saturday, May 10th, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Guy Snell officiating. Family and friends are invited to a Come and Go Reception to be held in the Saamis Creekside Centre at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel following the funeral service. A Private Interment will take place at Empress Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Audrey’s memory may be made to the S.P.C.A., 55 Southwest Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Audrey Bicknell. Radio funeral announcement can be heard on today around 11:45 a.m. on 93.7 Praise FM. Funeral arrangements 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 .1924 ~ YELLAND ~ 2014
Mr. Herbert “Herb” John Yelland of Medicine Hat passed away on Wednesday, May 7th, 2014 at the age of 89 years. Herb leaves to cherish his memory one son, Spencer (Glenda) Yelland of Camrose, Alberta; three daughters, Norma (Murray) Everett of Elkford, British Columbia, Caren (John) Muzyka of Calgary and Janice (Sandy) MacKinnon of Medicine Hat; ten grandchildren, Cora (Nathan) Kenny, Angela Muzyka, Cheryl (Troy) Hieb, Blaine Muzyka, Trevor Guest, Trent (Angela) Guest, Luke MacKinnon, Brent MacKinnon, Gracie Yelland and Sam Yelland; sixteen great grandchildren; one brother, Donald (Marie) Yelland; two sisters, Dorothy Brown and June Hoppe; two step-daughters, Penny (James) Saxsinger of Saskatoon and Patty (Lorrett) Desormeau of Calgary; two sisters-in-law, Jeanette Yelland and Audrey Spencer; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Herb was predeceased by his first wife, Beth; his second wife, Yvonne; his parents, Thomas and Clara Yelland; one grandson, Anthony “Tony” Everett; and two brothers, Bill Yelland and Ted Yelland. The Funeral Service will be held in BARRON FUNERAL CHAPEL, 908 – 101st Street, Tisdale, Saskatchewan on Monday, May 12th, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend David MacPherson officiating. Interment will follow in the Tisdale Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Herb’s memory may be made to the St. Joseph’s Home, 156 – 3rd Street NE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Herb Yelland. Funeral arrangements 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 .1947 ~ McHALE ~ 2014
Mr. Thomas “Tom” McHale, beloved husband of Mrs. Nicole McHale of Redcliff, passed away on Tuesday, May 6th, 2014 at the age of 66 years. Tom also leaves to cherish his memory five children, Chris McHale, Brian (Stacy) McHale, Michelle (Robbie) Meshen, Nancy (Fred) Gautreau and Dave (Whitney) Morrissette and their families. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. until 12:55 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held in SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, on Tuesday, May 13th, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. with Father Matthew Emmelkamp officiating. The officers and members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Redcliff Branch #6 will conduct a Poppy Service for their departed comrade. Interment will follow in the Veteran’s Section at Redcliff Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Tom’s memory may be made to the 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 Tom McHale. Funeral arrangements 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 .BECKER
Hazel May Elizabeth Becker passed away on Wednesday May 7, 2014, at the age of 72 years, beloved wife of Raymond Becker of Medicine Hat. She also leaves to cherish her memory two children, Steven Maynard and Scott Maynard; two brothers, Harvey (Edith) Sweet and Dennis (Cindy) Sweet; two sisters, Dolores (Bill) Ellis and Carol (Bill) Thompson; one sister-in-law Linda Sweet; one special aunt, Alice Zeeb as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Ernestine and Arthur Sweet and one brother Jack. Hazel had been a resident of Good Samaritan’s during her illness, where she received excellent care. At her request no service will be held. As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to the Pastoral Ministry at Good Samaritan Society c/o 550 Spruce Way SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1B 4P1. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Hazel Becker, 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 .BEIERBACH
Arthur “Art” Beierbach passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2014, at the age of 88 years after a courageous battle with renal (kidney) failure. He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Gail Dupuis (Greg Didow) of Grande Cache (their children, Kara, Nikki and Matthew); Corte Beierbach of Watson Lake, Yukon (his sons, Cameron and Bentley; his brother Harold (Alice); brother-in-law, Frank Weimer and sister-in-law, Rose Beierbach all of Medicine Hat as well as his great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Hulda Beierbach; his brother, Chester; sister, Doris Weimer; his grandson, Jared and niece Cheryl. Art was born on December 27, 1925 in Burstall, Saskatchewan. He will always be remembered, so proud in his cowboy hat and immersed in antiques. Art was a resident of Riverview Care Centre at the time of his passing. Special thanks to the staff for their committed care. A private burial will be held at a later date. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Art Beierbach, 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 .ELLIOTT WEBSTER NIBLOCK ‘SKIP’ MACDONALD
1935 – 2014 Skip Macdonald passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2014, at the age of 78 years, beloved husband of Bonnie Macdonald of Medicine Hat. He also leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Andrea Macdonald of Toronto; stepdaughter, Laura Pass of Vevey, Switzerland; stepson, Torrey (Lucie) Pass of Montreal; brother, Bob (Lorraine) Macdonald of Calgary; nephew, Keith (Lee) Macdonald of Calgary and their children, Leslie (Al) Leeson of Calgary and their children. Also left to cherish Skip’s memory, his very special cousins, Sibyl Geddes of Calgary, Marjorie ‘Billie’ Niblock of Victoria as well as other dear relatives and very good friends. Skip completed his law degree in 1955 and practiced in his home town of Medicine Hat until his retirement in 2008. He was an amazing man and lived his life with great enthusiasm, touching so many lives over the years in his roles as lawyer, judge, school trustee and passionate member of Medicine Hat Musical Theatre.Skip was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON CHAPEL on Friday, May 9, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. with The Rev. Dr. David Carter officiating. A private interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy donations may be made to the Rotary Music Festival: Rotary Club of Medicine Hat, Music Festival Society c/o Box 2498, Medicine Hat, T1A 8G8. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Skip Macdonald, 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 .GORDON MCPHERSON
September 16th, 1952
– April 19th, 2014
We loved a great man. A husband, father, papa, brother, son, cousin, uncle and a deeply cherished friend. He loved us all, and we loved him.
He was raised in Medicine Hat, started his family with Yvonne in Lethbridge, and moved to Salmon Arm with Yvonne, Michelle and Michael in 1987. His grandchildren, Seth, Ethan and Evan (Michael and Valene) and Keira and Ryder (Michelle and Corey Spence) put a sparkle in his eye and kept him young and vibrant!
We have comfort in knowing that he lived his life with joy and had many wonderful memories with family and friends. A friendly and social man, he made friends wherever he went and impacted them all. His welcoming smile, strong yet so gentle hands, and warm embrace meant so much.
He passed doing one of his most favourite things, snowmobiling, which he enjoyed with many friends and family in Salmon Arm. He had a great day on the mountain! Who would have known that in a split second he would be gone.
We will think fondly back on our memories and celebrate his life on Saturday, May 3rd at 2PM at Bower’s Funeral Home. A gathering will follow.
Online memories may be shared through Gordon’s obituary at http://www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm, BC .LAWRENCE (LARRY) BURGART
It is with disbelief and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Lawrence (Larry) Wayne Burgart at the age of 66 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter Tracey Burgart; his mother Katie Burgart; siblings, Adeline (Pete) Sanoy, Irene (Tom) Odell, Rita Edinborough, Alvin (Shirley) Burgart, Gwen Burgart and many nieces and nephews; the mother of his children Carol Shaw; chosen families, Christine (Kelvin) and Dalton Dyck, Michael Grudecki and Phillip (Laura-Lee) Grudecki and their families; and his latest wife Donna Burgart and her children Stuart(Vanessa) Bonneville and Aimee(Simon) Rose. Larry was predeceased by his son Duane, father Lawrence Burgart and brothers Alfred and Edward. Larry was born on August 8, 1947 in Wilkie, Saskatchewan and resided in Medicine Hat since 1979. He spent his early years working in the area before moving to Trail,BC for a short while and working in the forestry/ mining industries. He moved back to Saskatchewan to pursue mechanics and graduated from Tech school in Saskatoon and began his career. His first marriage gave him the joys of his life, son Duane and daughter Tracey. Unfortunately Duane was killed in a vehicle accident at the young age of 22, which totally devastated Larry’s world. In 1979, Larry moved to Medicine Hat and having spent the majority of his life doing mechanics owning his own business where he met many people who he continued to call friends. Larry loved being around people and had his own sense of humor and loved telling stories. Larry liked tinkering, repairing and building things and thought he had the best way of doing things, most times he was right (or so we let him believe). It wasn’t often he turned down a request from someone who required his mechanical expertise. Long, late hours were spent repairing equipment for farmers or oil/construction. He would make some money and then take off on trips to explore the country, he loved history and all the cool places he would find. His favorite enjoyment was being surrounded by nature, spending time with his hunting buddies out in the bush and bringing home the year’s supply of wild game. Of course bragging about being the best was often included in this sport. When spending time at home, he loved listening to his many records of pure country music, plus a few good ol’ rock n roll tunes. Larry was fortunate to connect with the Grudecki’s and was blessed to have their acceptance and love. Christine spoiled him with all her cooking and Dalton loved being around his Papa. When he met Donna (his future wife), Larry had to prove his dance moves to her and she was hooked. Her children also became a welcomed addition to his world. Upon his brother Edward’s death, Larry developed a special bond with his niece Jennifer (Randy) Leavitt. Each gave the other unconditional love at a time that was necessary for both. Of course he also treasured the times he shared with his other nieces and nephews. Larry was always glad to welcome anyone to his home. Sadly, he did not share with anyone as to the seriousness of his health and refused any efforts of support. He was in the process of ‘downsizing’ at the time of his death. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the unwavering friendship and dedication of Joe Hrankowski and we are forever grateful. Thank you to everyone who remained Larry’s friend through all his ups and downs in life. A Celebration of Larry’s life will be held in the PATTISON CHPAEL on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to remember Larry with a donation may do so through the Canadian Cancer Society #102 Crestwood Square One, 1865 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z8 or the Canadian Diabetes Association, Medicine Hat and District Branch 102 73 7th Street SE, Medicine Hat. T1A 1J2. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Larry Burgart, 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 .NORMA GAFFNEY
1915 ~ 2014
Mrs. Norma Eloise Gaffney, beloved wife of the late, Mr. Sidney Gaffney, passed away peacefully at the Riverview Care Centre, Medicine Hat, AB., on Monday, March 17, 2014, at the age of 98 years. Norma was born and raised in Hoosier, SK., and completed her grade 12 schooling there. She attended both Bedford Road Collegiate and Robertson Business College in Saskatoon, SK., completeing a secretarial program. Norma married the love of her life, Sidney Gaffney sharing many timeless years together. She was a devote and faithful member of the Westminster United Church. Norma was the “Talk Of The Town”, a noon-hour talk show she hosted on CHAT-TV for a number of years. She may be most remembered as a sales clerk in the Darling Dress Shop, where her fondness of hats and high heel shoes became a reality. Some of her favorite past times included crafts, knitting and oil painting, as well as a keen interest in hockey, baseball and curling. Norma was a life-time member of the Medicine Hat Curling Club and belonged to the Ladies Hospital Auxiliary. She enjoyed spending holidays with family and going camping and fishing with Sidney in Elkwater. Norma will be forever remembered in the hearts of her sister, Lois Fairbairn; brother, Larry Hubbs; sister-in-law, Tina Hubbs as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Sidney Gaffney; parents, Charles and?Ethel Hubbs; brothers, Roy (Isabelle) Hubbs, Gordon (Eleanor) Hubbs, Lloyd Hubbs; sister-in law, Esther Hubbs and brother-in-law, Dalton Fairbairn. A Graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery on Saturday, May 10, 2014, at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Jan Stevenson officiating. Those wishing to attend should gather at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., on Saturday between 11:40 p.m. and 11:50 p.m., to join in the procession to the cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Norma’s name may be made directly to the Heart &?Stroke Foundation of Alberta, #124, 430 – 6 Avenue S.E. Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 2S8 or to a charity of one’s own choice. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455. .SCHOCK
It is with very heavy hearts we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, George Schock of Elkwater. George passed away on Friday, May 2, 2014, at the age of 81 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Darlene; his three daughters, Patty (Dennis) Klemchuk of Fairview, Cheryl Schock (Greg Thera) of Medicine Hat and Bonnie (Clint) Clark of Dunmore; three grandchildren, Brandon Maser, Chelsea Maser and Addison Clark; one sister, Irene Schneidmiller of Kelowna, BC; two brothers, Donald (Marlene) Schock of Medicine Hat and John (Florence) Schock of Maple Creek; four sisters-in-law, Ilene Schock, Jean Schock, Marlys (Jim) Frank, all of Medicine Hat and Judy (Pat) Nieman of Edmonton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families, and a community of friends. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Dorothy Schock; his mother and father-in-law, Louise and Frank Nobel; two brothers, Bill Schock and Carl Schock; and his brother-in-law, Victor Schneidmiller. George was born and raised on the family ranch south of Elkwater in the Thelma area of the Cypress Hills. He always said that he was born there and he would die there. He attended the Lebanon School in Thelma until he completed grade 7, tried one year of schooling in Medicine Hat, but didn’t enjoy the city so went back to the Cypress Hills. From then, the only time he left home or ranching was to work for a survey company for one summer and then to do custom work in order to support his family. George married Darlene Nobel in 1958, and on March 29th of this year they celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. Family, the ranch tlineand his John Deere tractor were the center of his everyday life and happiness. George was incredibly proud of his children and his grandchildren. He loved visits with Addison, who referred to him as the “Grand Puba”, and he beamed to hear the accomplishments of Brandon and Chelsea. George was an active member of the Elkwater and area ranching community including fulfilling duties as President of the Bluefield Grazing Association for many years, as well as for the Medicine Lodge Stock Association. He volunteered for the Elkwater Fire Department and always lent his helping hand to the Elkwater Golf Club whenever needed. He enjoyed the opportunities to do aerial game counts for Fish and Wildlife. One of his most memorable moments was being interviewed by David Suzuki at the ranch for a documentary on the environmental impact in the Cypress Hills. Assisting others and sharing stories and spirits with friends and family was George’s greatest love. He will be remembered as an honest, determined, hardworking and independent man. His smile, contagious laugh, sincerity and friendship will certainly be missed by all that knew and loved him including family, friends, and neighbors. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON CHAPEL on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Barrett Scheske officiating. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy donations may be made to “Halo” c/o Southern Alberta Medic Air Society, #12 – 49 Viscount Ave SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 5G4 (Please make cheques payable to Southern Alberta Medic Air Society) or the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre (Medicine Hat Regional Hospital) c/o 666 5th Street SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4H6. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: George Schock, or you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com and leave a message of condolence or you may visit http://www.gonebutnotforgotten.ca 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 .
It was just before Christmas when Linda Wurfel rejoined her husband at their place of rest in the Mountain View Cemetery in Lethbridge. Last Saturday was her formal farewell as family and friends came together in Cook’s Chapel for a time of sharing and remembrance. Pastor Julianna led the service which included granddaughter, Marlene, sharing words from the heart prepared by Ardis and Albert. Vicki Tellman and Gerry Getz offered encouragement through music as they led the congregation in song and shared a special selection entitled, “Beautiful Garden Of Prayer”. The memories continued to flow at the fellowship that followed as everyone took their opportunity to look over the personal display prepared by the family. “Linda was called home,
While Ernest was waiting there,
Re-united now for eternity
In The Garden Of Prayer.” Her Life Lived…
Her Life Cherished…
Her Life Honoured.
Courtesy of Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 .VERA CHODYKA
1955 ~ 2014
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Vera Chodyka announce her passing which occurred in Medicine Hat on Saturday, May 3, 2014, at the age of 59 years. Her memory will be cherished in the hearts of her children: son, Bobby Auger (Jennifer Dodd) and their children, Nadia, Anthony, Austin, Cassidy, Talin and Alexandra; daughter, Therese Auger (Chris Millar) and their children, Jasmine, Tristan, Shianne, Shauna and Chelsea. Vera is also survived by five brothers, three sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. Vera was predeceased by her parents, George and Nadia Chodyka as well as one sister. Cremation has taken place. In honour of Vera, relatives and friends are invited to share in a time of remembrance and fellowship at Therese and Chris’ residence, 104 Cooney Road S.E., Medicine Hat on Sunday, May 11, 2014, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Honoured to serve the family is COOK SOUTHLAND Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4V4. Telephone: 403-527-6455. 16
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