November 20, 2014
By Obituaries on November 20, 2014.
.1920 ~ EDWARDS ~ 2014Dr. Jack Edwards of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Margaret Edwards, passed away on Sunday, November 9th, 2014 at the age of 93 years. The Funeral Service was held yesterday at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Jack Edwards. 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 .1925 ~ BURLES ~ 2014
Olive Frances Burles of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Clarence Burles, passed away on Sunday, November 16th, 2014 at the age of 89 years. Olive leaves to cherish her memory her three children, Geraldine Congram, Craig Burles, and Grant Burles; six grandchildren, Tracy (Steve), Michael (Mel), Olivia, Alexandra (Mike), Renee (Jeremy), and Brandan; three great- grandchildren, Angelise, Kyron, and Xander; one niece, Gina (Paul) Evans; and one nephew, Anthony (Sybilla) Hood. Olive was predeceased by her parents, Samuel and Charlotte Jolly; one son, Wade Burles in 1970; one daughter-in-law, Thelma Burles; one brother, Donald Jolly; and one sister, Carol (Alfred) Hood. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Friday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL on Saturday, November 22nd, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. with Reverend Canon D. Gene Packwood officiating. A Private Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Olive’s memory may be made to The Wellington Retirement Residence, 1595 Southview Drive SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 0A1. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Olive Burles. Radio funeral announcement can be heard on Friday around 11:35 a.m. on 93.7 Praise FM. 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 .1927 ~ HECKER ~ 2014
Philomena Hecker of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Mike Hecker, passed away on Monday, November 17th, 2014 at the age of 87 years. Philomena leaves to cherish her memory her children, Frank (Geri) Hecker, Eduard (Olga) Hecker, Georgina Hecker, Maria (Dean) Sehn, and Lydia (Ron) Buscholl, and their families. Vigil Rites (prayers) will be said at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Thursday, November 20th, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at HOLY FAMILY PARISH, 1451 Strachan Road SE, on Friday, November 21st, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. with Father Philip Le, celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Philomena’s memory may be made to HALO or to the Red Cross. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Philomena Hecker. 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 ~ FRANKO ~ 2014
Walter Orest Franko, beloved husband of Doris Franko of Medicine Hat, passed away on Sunday, November 16th, 2014 at the age of 81 years. Walt leaves to cherish his memory his children, Dale (Cindi) Franko and Diane (Murray) Morton, both of Medicine Hat; two grandchildren, Brett Morton and Jenna Morton; his “adopted” grandsons, Connor, Cameron and Kyle Gray; two brothers, John Franko and Donald (Connie) Franko, both of Saskatoon; two sisters, Violet (Peter) Kapeluck and Carol (John) Smith, both of Saskatoon; one brother-in-law, Jim (Delores) Mutschler of Regina; two sisters-in-law, Lorraine Jackle and June (Allen) Donst, both of Medicine Hat; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Walt was predeceased by his parents, Metro and Kay Franko; and one sister, Olga (Leo) Bast. Walt was born on November 25th, 1932 in Watson, Saskatchewan and married Doris Mutschler on October 27th, 1956 in Medicine Hat. Walt was a realtor for over 30 years and served as Director of the Alberta Real Estate Board for 4 years. He was also Past President and Life Member of the Medicine Hat Real Estate Board. Walt was well known in the community and was a member of the Lion’s Club for many years. Walt enjoy curling, golfing, dancing, camping, traveling and spending time with his family. Walter’s family would like to thank Riverview Care Centre for their excellent care and support of Walt for the past 4 years. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, on Thursday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and at VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2793 Southview Drive SE, on Friday from 10:00 to 10:55 a.m. The Funeral Service will be held at VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH on Friday, November 21st, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with Diaconal Minister Lila De Waal and Reverend Barrett Scheske co-officiating. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery following the reception. Memorial gifts in Walter’s memory may be made to Canadian Lutheran World Relief, 600 – 177 Lombard Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 0W5, or to the Alzheimer’s Society, 401D – 3rd Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 0G8. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Walter Franko. Radio funeral announcement can be heard on Thursday around 11:35 a.m. on 93.7 Praise FM. 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 .1942 ~ HAGEL ~ 2014
Francis “Frank” Hagel of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Judy Hagel, passed away on Saturday, November 15th, 2014 at the age of 72 years. Frank leaves to cherish his memory his son, Darrel (Melissa) Hagel of Penticton, British Columbia; three grandsons, Emmanuel, Henry and Elliott; four brothers, Clarence (Arlene) Hagel, Tony (Bea) Hagel, Ben (Elaine) Hagel and Patrick (Kim) Hagel; three sisters, Frances (Bill) Chevrier, Marie Myerchin, and Sister Victoria Hagel; along with many nieces and nephews. Besides his wife, Judy, Frank was predeceased by his parents, Victor and Lena Hagel; two brothers, Father Paul Hagel and Father Len Hagel; and two sisters, Millie Lynch and Sister Virginia Hagel. Frank was born on August 16th, 1942 in Schuler, Alberta. He was raised on the farm until the age of 14 when his parents moved into Medicine Hat. In the late 70’s he married Judy after returning from years of world travels. They settled in Redcliff before moving to Medicine Hat. Frank apprenticed as an electrician and refrigeration mechanic and over his career worked across Alberta on many chemical and power plants. In his spare time Frank was an avid skier, handy man and assisted his brother farming in Schuler. Frank was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Redcliff and later St. Patrick’s in Medicine Hat. He also did a great deal of volunteer work as a member of the Knights of Columbus. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1 Dunmore Road SE, on Wednesday, November 19th, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. PATRICK’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 238 – 2nd Avenue NW on Thursday, November 20th, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Friends are invited to a Reception in the Parish Hall following the interment service. Memorial gifts in Frank’s memory may be made out to the Alzheimer Society (Palliser Region), 401D – 3rd Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 0G8. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Frank Hagel. Radio funeral announcement can be heard on Wednesday around 11:35 a.m. on 93.7 Praise FM. 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 .FRED DEE
1932 ~ 2014
With heavy hearts the family of Mr. Frederick Melvin Dee, beloved husband of Mrs. Lillian Dee (nee Goss), announce his passing at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Sunday, November 16, 2014, at the age of 82 years. Fred was born in Moose Jaw on July 19, 1932 to Charles Sr. and Bertha Dee. He attended Western Canadian High School in Calgary. At the age of 17, Fred joined the RCAF for five years, followed by the Bristol Aerospace Testlight Dept. for 10 years. Fred married Lillian Goss in Winnipeg, MB., on November 26, 1960. Moving to Medicine Hat, he gained employment with North West Nitro later known as the Western Coop Fertilizer and worked there until it’s closure, finally working with the Corp of Commissaries until his retirement in 1997. They were faithful and devoted members of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church. Fred had a humorous side and was a very caring family man. He loved to play cards, build wooden ships and enjoyed airplanes of all sorts. He bowled in his younger years with Lilian, curled with the Legion for many years and was named Most Sportsmanlike player in 1981, and enjoyed playing golf with his family. Fred was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 48 years and an Assistant Band Master with the Medicine Hat Police Boys Band. He always had fun volunteering with the Legion Ladies Auxillary and selling 50/50 tickets. Fred treasured the many trips and vacations with his family, especially in Europe and the mini family reunions in Winnipeg each summer, never passing up the chance to tour through the many Airplane Museums and attending the countless Air Shows. Fred will be forever remembered in the hearts of his wife, Lillian; sons, Fred Jr. of Medicine Hat, James (Lori) of Thunder Bay, ON., and grandson, Kevin of Lumby, B.C. His memory will be treasured by his sister, Doreen (Paul) Poohachow and brother- in-law, Ralph MacLean both of Calgary as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Fred was predeceased by his parents, Charles Sr. and Bertha Dee; siblings, Phylis MacLean, Art Dee, Chuck Dee and sister-in-law, Pat Dee. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., on Thursday, November 20, 2014 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and again one hour prior to service time. The Funeral Service will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Friday, November 21, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. with Deacon Terry Olson officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice, 156 – 3 Street N.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 5M1. Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 .FRED HILDERMAN
1933 ~ 2014
Mr. Fredrick (Fred) Hilderman, beloved husband of Mrs. Lenora Hilderman, passed away at the Masterpiece River Ridge in Medicine Hat on Monday, November 17, 2014, at the age of 81 years. Further announcements will follow upon completion of the arrangements. 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. .GEORGE KLEIN November 3, 1914 ~ November 15, 2014 Mr. George Klein, beloved husband of 70 years to Mrs. Josephine Klein, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at the remarkable age of 100 years. George was born November 3, 1914 on the farm near Krupp, Saskatchewan. He was the fourth of nine children born to proud parents, George and Elizabeth (nee Reiger) Klein. A strong work ethic was instilled in him at a young age as he began working on the family farm until he married the love of his life, Josephine Hellman on October 23, 1944. It was then that George left the family farm and took over the Hicke farm at Linacre. A short time later, they purchased the existing farm near Liebenthal. He was well known in the surrounding communities and his help was always available. George was Mr. Fix-it and the local welder if you needed anything done. He had a passion for life and dearly loved his wife, family and friends, ensuring the door was always open to welcome anyone who came. George especially enjoyed music as it was a part of thier family life from a young age. He taught himself how to play the violin, accordion and piano, and even played for local dances in his early years. There was always music in the house. If George wasn’t playing an instrument himself, he would be listening to an album from his huge collection. He also enjoyed fishing, golfing, watching the daily televised Mass and special times spent with family and friends. In 1970, they made the move to Medicine Hat where they have resided ever since. As a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, he was involved with the church choir and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Family was of the utmost importance to him and he felt blessed to celebrate his 100th birthday with his immediate family! Along with his loving wife, Josephine, left to cherish George’s memory are his children: Diana (Joe) Reeves, Dennis (Bev) Klein, Peggy Klein, Marilyn (Harj) Hari, Gerard (Lori) Klein; grandchildren: Greg (Tani) Klein, Josh Hari, Bretton Hari, Amanda Klein, Cameron Klein; great-grandchildren: Mila Klein, Oscar Klein; sister, Anne (Joe) Cox as well as sister-in-law, Kati Klein. He was predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth (1937) and father, George (1951); sisters: Julia (Ben) Hicke, Theresa (Frank) Kambeitz, Margaret (Wendell) Laturnus; brothers: Ben (Elizabeth), Linus (Kati), Tony (Rose) and Father Kasper OMI. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so starting one hour prior to Vigil Prayers which will be recited at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will also be offered at the church starting one hour prior to the Funeral Mass which will be concelebrated at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 238 – 2 Avenue N.E., Medicine Hat on Friday, November 21, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. with Father Philip Le and Father Tomy Manjaly celebrant. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Memorial donations in George’s name may be made directly to the Chronic Kidney Disease Clinic, c/o 666 – 5th Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4H6 or to the charity of your choice. Honoured to serve the family is COOK SOUTHLAND Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4V4. Telephone: 403-527-6455. .HENDRIK (HANK) SLOFSTRA December 17, 1937 ~ November 15, 2014 Hendrik (Hank) Slofstra, beloved husband of Lena Slofstra of Medicine Hat, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at the age of 76 years. Hank was born on December 17, 1937 in Nietap, Groningen, Holland where his family owned and operated two grocery stores. In 1952, and at the age of 14 years old, the family immigrated to Canada and settled in Redcliff, Alberta. Hank started his career in the painting business with Dutch Brothers and then Emil’s painting. He married the former Lena Hazelaar in 1964 and together they were blessed with two children, Teresa in 1966 and Pete in 1967. In the 70’s, Hank and his partner, James Aasman started Western Painters and after a decade later he became the owner of Hank’s Painting. Many throughout the community knew Hank as “Hank The Painter”. He continued to work up until his retirement at the age of 67. Even though in Canada for over 60 years, Hank loved the old country and especially enjoyed travelling to Europe with his family and to show them what made him so proud. He was known as a kind and gentle man with a passion for fun. He had many friends and Hank and Liny’s door was always open to anyone that wanted to drop by for a visit. He loved music and had an incredible tenor voice. Most importantly, his pride and joy was his family and especially his four grandsons that he affectionately called his “Grands”. Besides his wife, Lena, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Hank leaves to cherish his memory: daughter, Teresa (Todd) Schile of Medicine Hat and Pete Slofstra (Laela) of Calgary; his “Grands”, Jaren (Skylar Valkenburg) Schile, Drayden Schile, Rylan Schile and Justin Slofstra. He is also survived by one brother, Martin (Janny) Slofstra; sister, Peterdiena Scheepstra of Holland; in-laws, Bill Aasman, Harm (Hennie) Hazelaar of Brampton, Ontario, Mary (Niek) van Brenk of Holland as well as many nieces and nephews. Hank was predeceased by his parents, Hendrik and Trientje Slofstra (nee Bralts); step-mother, Nel Slofstra (nee Stigter); brothers, Lammert Slofstra, Bill Slofstra and Pieter Slofstra; sisters, Jackie Aasman and Tina Aasman as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 20, 2014, between 11:00 a.m. and 12 Noon with interment following at Hillside Cemetery. The Funeral Service will be held at the Christian Reformed Church, 300 Primrose Drive S.E., Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor George Koopmans officiating. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) In support of COPD, memorial donations in Hank’s name may be made directly to the Alberta Lung Association, P.O. Box 4700, Stn South, Edmonton, Alberta, T6E 9Z9. Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 .NANCY SMART
1951 ~ 2014
With heavy hearts the family of Nancy Anne Smart announce her peaceful passing at the St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at the age of 63 years. Nancy will be remembered by her daughter, Paula (Glenn) Bromley and the grandchildren she admired and cherished, Matt and Dawson; a sister, Arlene (Ed) Yee of Swift Current, Sask.; step-mother, Esther Dahl of Swift Current and her children. She was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Helen Dahl. As per Nancy’s wishes, no formal servide will be held. Her life will be honoured on a bright, sunny day in the spring with a gathering of family, friends and furry pets and will be announced accordingly. Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Memorial donations in Nancy’s name may be made directly to the SPCA, 55 Southwest Drive, S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8. Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 .PHYLLIS MARIE SCHORR 1940-2014 As you are biting into your next piece of Kuchen, or gooey cinnamon buns, you may be reminded of Phyllis Schorr. On November 15, 2014 Phyllis Marie Schorr (Franz) started her eternal life where she is joined by her perfect “blue skirt waltz” dance partner David Schorr. Her spirit is carried on by her: twelve children, twenty three grandchildren, one great grandchild, five siblings and extended family of relations and friends from every walk of life.
A pioneer in recycling and composting; years ahead of her time. She was not only skilled in baking but also in child rearing. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandkids; who loving refer to her as Grandma, Nana and Little Grandma. Whether it was hitching a ride on the grey hound, jet setting to White Horse or even traveling by boat; she was always there. Proudly attending concerts, dance recitals, performances, and hockey games or being a last minute baby sitter. Her maternal talent extended beyond her own children to her grandchildren, family, friends and even strangers. Her words of wisdom or advice usually started with “well we didn’t worry about that back in my day.” During her 74 years she has taught us many life lessons. Here are a few we would like to share: 1.The need for clarification: for example when your husband says he has always wanted a large family it is best to get the exact number…..12? 2.The importance of delegation: There was no reason the older children could not care for the younger ones; 3. Take time to enjoy the things you love, whether that it is going to a movie, a concert, ballet “thunder from down under,” plays or clapping and singing to Fiddler on the Roof; 4.The importance of a good glass of wine or coconut rum; 5.There is always more than one use for a yogurt container; 6.You are never too old to try new things or go to Vegas; 7.Have your cake and eat it too … even if it is for breakfast; 8.Never be without a Kleenex and never worry about leaving them behind; 9.You are never too old to start a new career (even if it is a paper route which she start in her 60’s, had more than 1 route and did up to the week she passed); 10.There is nothing wrong with a little vanity. As mom always said “you got our beauty from me and your brains from dad”; 11.Always celebrate special occasions: After 12 kids, endless homemade birthday cakes, Easter cakes and family dinners – you would think she would be all baked out…but she wasn’t; and 12.Always remember things are cheaper by the dozen! Left to honor her memory are her twelve children: Patsy Stehr (Eugine Stehr) Robert Schorr (Kaye Cano), Bruce Schorr, Donna Lee Lawson (Andrew Lawson), Rhonda Fur (John Fur), Tony Schorr, Stacey Schorr, (Claude Paquin) Stephanie Schorr (Lee Malanchuk), Becky Schorr (Glen Henderson), Mandy Lehr (Scott Lehr), Cassandra McKillop (Michael McKillop), Michealene Hillis (Kevin Hillis) twenty three grandchildren: Nathan Stehr, Thomas Stehr, Jonathan Stehr, Hunter Cano, Chealsey Cano, Samantha Romeril, Spencer McNamara, Payton Lawson, Harrison Lawson, Jeroen Lawson, Alyssa Fur, Robyn-Lynn Fur, Emila Schorr, Barrett Furchner, Kaleigh Henderson, Rowan Henderson, Meranda Lehr, Niklas Lehr, Markus Lehr, Cody Hillis, Gage Hillis, Colt Hillis, Allie Hillis; one great grandchild: Ty Romeril; five siblings: Morley Franz, Alec Franz, Josephine Good, Deloris Los, Bonita Franz and Beverley Viduk.
A celebration of life will be held in Elkwater as it is a place that was special to her and her family. Having spent many fond memories there over the years. It will be held at the Elkwater Hall 318 4 Ave. Saturday, November 22, 2014 from 2:00-5:00 pm. A public viewing will be held at PATTISON FUNERAL HOME Thursday November 20, 2014 from 6:00-8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, Palliative Care (cheques payable to MH&D Health Foundation) 666 5th Street SW, Medicine Hat, T1A 4H6 or online at http://www.InYourCommunity.ca or to the Canadian Cancer Society #102 Crestwood Square One, 1865 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z8 To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Phyllis Schorr, 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 .SHELLEY BURR 1962 ~ 2014 Gary Burr sadly announces the passing of his best friend and loving wife, Shelley Jean Burr on Saturday, November 15, 2014 at the age of 52 years.
Shelley was born on May 18, 1962 in Medicine Hat, AB. As the youngest of four girls, she has always had a great sense of humour and loved to play tricks on her sisters and parents. Shelley attended school on the SE Hill in Medicine Hat, and graduated from Medicine Hat High School in 1980.
For 31 years Shelley and Gary have been proud supporters to each other through life’s journey. They were blessed with two daughters, Karly and Dani. Both Gary and Shelley were involved in gymnastics during the girls’ childhood years. If Shelley wasn’t organizing Bingo volunteers, she was attending her favourite Tigers’ games or relaxing while watching one of Gary’s pool tournaments.
Shelley was very hard-working and inspiring. With Gary’s support, she entered the Diploma of Nursing program in 1991 at the Medicine Hat College. She received her Diploma with Honours in 1993. While working as a Registered Nurse, she entered the Bachelor of Nursing program at the College through the University of Lethbridge, and graduated with her BN in 1997.
For 18 years, Shelley worked as a Staff Oncology Nurse at the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre in Medicine Hat, where she touched the lives of many cancer patients and their families. In 2013, Shelley became the first Cancer Patient Navigator in Medicine Hat. This position allowed her to connect with newly diagnosed cancer patients and assist them in their journey by providing support and coordination of care.
Spending time with friends and family was very important to her; she was a great friend. Her infectious and boisterous laugh helped put everyone at ease. Shelley kept in touch with many friends from all stages of life: high school, nursing school, the girls’ activities, and work. Time spent with friends was special to her whether at coffee shops, out for drinks, or a walk with her dogs.
Shelley maintained very special relationships with all of her nieces and nephews and their families, especially as they expanded. She was incredibly blessed to be a Great-Aunt and cherished the moments she spent with her grand-nieces and nephews as “Grauntie Shelley”.
Besides her husband, Gary, Shelley leaves to cherish her memory her daughters and sons-in-law, Karly and John Hayes, with grandbaby Hayes arriving January 2015, and Dani and Adam O’Reilly. She will be deeply missed by her mother, Doreen Sailer; as well as her sisters, Janice (Bruce) Dynes, Elaine (Jim) McKinley, and Joanne Herman (Mike Birbeck), and their families. Shelley will also be remembered by Gary’s family: his mother, Roberta Burr; his brother, Bruce (Audrey) Burr, and his sisters, Wendy (Peter) Venables and Barb (George) Harty, and their families. She was predeceased by her father, Fred Sailer (1994) and her father-in-law, Harold Burr (1997).
Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of this special lady at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant Gerry Getz officiating. Luncheon to follow at Medicine Hat Golf and Country Club at approximately 3:15 p.m. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made to Medicine Hat College Foundation, re: Shelley Burr (299 College Drive SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 3Y6). Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455. .WOODMAN
Debbie Ann Woodman passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, at the age of 56 years surrounded by those she loved most: her husband Deryk and three daughters Alecia (Vaughn Marshall and their children, Parker, Paiten and Penley); Courtnie (Jared Brusky); and Chelsie (Jordan Gobin). Also left to cherish her memory are her mother, Oksana Lysitza; brother, Bob Lysitza (Corinna and their children, Layne and Shelby (Sean); sister, Cathy Howland (Don and their children, Bryn (Heather) and Ashley); and brother Michael Lysitza (Angie and their children, Zachary, Chloe and Theran) all from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. She will also be missed by her brother-in-law, Wayne Woodman (Jodi and their children, Riley (Danielle) and Kaley); and sister-in-law, Wendy Walker (Bruce and their children, Bree (Ryan and daughter Leah) and Cody (Aimee).
Debbie fought a long and courageous battle against Breast Cancer, being diagnosed first in January 1992 and then again in of June 2005. Her fight was fueled by the love she had for all of her family. She found strength in the love she had for her predeceased father, Andrew Lysitza who she loved dearly in life and after his passing.
Debbie enjoyed spending her summers in her condo on wheels parked either at Rattlesnake or Emma Lake, Saskatchewan. She enjoyed her Tuesday morning coffees with the coffee ladies where they would solve all the world’s problems. She valued her relationships with the staff of the Margery E Yuill Cancer Centre, and considered herself an honorary employee after her 22 years of service. She enjoyed cruising the seas with her husband. But most of all she enjoyed time spent, wherever it was, as long as she was surrounded by the loves of her life Deryk, Alecia, Courtnie and Chelsie, her three sweethearts Parker, Paiten and Penley, and the three special men that joined her life Vaughn, Jared and Jordan.
The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON CHAPEL on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant, David Townsend. Please note the change in service time. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to 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: Debbie Woodman, 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 35
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