October 30, 2020

By Obituaries on October 30, 2020.

1927 – Wilbert Albert Schimpf – 2020

Mr. Wilbert Schimpf, beloved husband of the late Marion Schimpf, of Medicine Hat, passed away Sunday, October 25th, 2020 at the age of 93 years. Wilbert also leaves to cherish his memory his two sons, Kevin (Natalie) of Medicine Hat and Lance (Aline) of Parkland County; grandchildren, Nicole, Jacob and Alexandra; two sisters, Bertha Schimpf and Vivian Glesman; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife; parents, Alexander and Katherina Schimpf; and his two brothers, Edward Schimpf and Harold Schimpf. Wilbert was born August 26, 1927 on the family homestead in Estuary, SK. Wilbert attended school in rural Saskatchewan, completing his high school education in Leader, SK. He helped his parents on the family farm in Estuary, SK until their retirement to Calgary in 1953. He took over working the farm and in 1958 he married Marion. Together, they had two sons and raised them in Medicine Hat, AB while Wilbert continued to farm in SK during the summer months and work odd jobs in the winter. The Funeral Service will take place at River Valley Community Church on Friday, October 30th, 2020 at 1:00 pm. A private family graveside service will follow. Those who wish to honour Wilbert’s memory may send a donation to the River Valley Community Church, 1101 Queen Street SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1B3. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Wilbert Schimpf. 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.

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1928 ~ DOROTHY SMITH ~ 2020

Dorothy Smith left her family broken hearted as she passed away on October 25, 2020 with her family by her side. She was born June 11, 1928 in Whitewood, SK to Lexie and Fraser Robertson. Dorothy was their middle child. Her childhood years were spent in Whitewood, SK. In 1946 she moved to Cereal, AB where she worked at the Cereal Hospital. While working in Cereal she met the love of her life Goldwin Smith. They were married in Drumheller on October 16, 1947. In 1949, they started adding children to their family. Six of the children started their lives on the family farm in Cereal under Dorothy’s watchful eye. In 1965, they moved to Irvine, AB where their family was completed with their final child. Dorothy and Goldie always made sure there was room in their house for any family or friends who happened to need a place to sleep or eat. As her family got older Dorothy returned to the workforce. Dorothy worked at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat from 1970 to 1979 and Weidemann’s General Store in Irvine from 1979 until her retirement. Upon retiring Goldie and Dorothy fixed up a camper and loaded it on their 1987 Dodge 4 x 4 and drove the Alaska highway, enjoying many stops and sights along the way. They also enjoyed trips to Mexico. In December 1995 they sold their family home in Irvine and moved to Grandview Village in Medicine Hat, AB. In January 1996 her world changed when Goldie passed away. After Goldie’s passing Dorothy continued to enjoy many trips to Mexico and went on two Alaskan cruises with her family. In the winter of 2016, Dorothy made her final trip to Mexico. In February 2018 she moved to Masterpiece Southland Meadows. In June of 2018 we celebrated her 90th birthday with many family and friends in attendance. Her family was completed with seven children, eighteen grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren. Terry and Sharon Smith – Troy Smith (Taylor, Kyla and their mom Shantele), Jodi Smith (Hailey Smith, Colt Degenstein and Dakota Degenstein); Barb and Brett Gaff – Renee Gaff (Dakota Gaff and Ryder Wasilow), Bodie Gaff; Judy and Ron Brookes – Brad and Mary Brookes (Ronan and Bridget) Lyle and Kelsey Brookes (Lauren, Brent, Finna and Eli); Heather and Ross Beierbach – Ryan and Tania Beierbach (Rana, Lara and Jace), William and Donna Beierbach (Tate and Kate) Mona Beierbach (Georgia Howe and Hayes Howe); Doug and Jeanette Smith – Taryn (Courtney) Countryman (Case) and Jadyn (Ryan) Smith; Trish and Blaine Lanz – Boyd Lanz (Nathaniel) and Micheal Lanz; Karen and Doug Shwetz – Jimmy and Stephanie Fieldberg, Allen and Nicole Fieldberg (Avery) and Mark Fieldberg, Ashley Shwetz and Spencer Shwetz.
Also survived by her sisters, Jane Fafard and Beth (Bob) Courchene; brother-in-law, Don (Karen) Fockler and sister-in-law, Jean Smith and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 48 years Goldwin; sister, Joan; brother, Donald; brothers-in-law, George Fafard and Ward Smith. Dorothy lived for her family. Her greatest pride and joy was helping her children grow into adults with children of their own. She was blessed to watch her grandchildren do the same and treasured each moment of joy they brought her. Our family would love to thank the staff at Masterpiece for being there for her. Special thank you to Shelley Brooks for her outstanding friendship to our mom. Due to Covid-19 restrictions we regret that Dorothy’s celebration will be private family, Live streaming of the service can be found on the Saamis Memorial Site on October 31, 2020 starting at 1:55 p.m.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada 101 – 1201 Kingsway Avenue SE Medicine Hat, AB T1A 2Y2. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Dorothy Smith. 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.

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1936 ~ ALISTAIR “AL” GEORGE GARDEN ~ 2020

Our Dad and Grandpa went to be with the Lord on Monday, October 26, 2020. Dad was blessed with 84 wonderful years. He is survived by his loving wife, Tanis. He is adored and remembered by his children, Scott Garden (wife Judy, granddaughters Savannah and Sierra) of Camas, Washington; Dana Bykowski (husband John, granddaughters Elani and Janelle) of Lethbridge, Alberta; and Krista Bartman (husband Troy and grandson Truman and granddaughter Amaly) of Medicine Hat. Dad is also remembered and cherished by his sister, Linda Garden of White Rock, British Columbia. Dad was born on July 30, 1936 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to his parents, Bill and Dorothy Garden. As the only son of hard working farmers, Dad’s first two years of life were on a farm in Surbiton, Saskatchewan, before moving to a new family farm in Rolling HIlls, Alberta. As a youngster he was keen to dig ditches or haul potatoes for extra spending money, but farming was not to be his calling. Although he would describe himself as a mischievous student, schooling for him was a wonderful rural experience. He played hard and learned enough to move on to Olds College, Alberta, at the tender age of 16, to complete a dual certificate program at the Olds College School of Agriculture. He was so excited last summer to celebrate a 65 year reunion with many of his former classmates. For Dad, school was easier than working on the farm and so he continued his studies and completed his grade 12 at the Red Deer Composite High School before qualifying for entrance into the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Alberta. Dad applied to the Army to help pay for dental school and complete his degree. As part of his program, he spent four years at university summer training in Camp Borden, Ontario. Upon graduation as an Army Captain in 1961, he was posted to Currie Barrack in Calgary for two years and then another year at R.C.A.F Station in Penhold, Alberta. During his time in Calgary he met and married his lifelong partner, Tanis. After his Army commitment was complete, Dad and Mom moved to Medicine Hat where Dad accepted a position with the dental practice of ‘Slack, Snedden and Gray.’ At that time, the practice was located in a little white building on Second Street. In 1979, Snedden, Gray and Garden moved their clinic to its current location at River Center Dental Clinic. Dad was proud of this new location and enjoyed looking over the South Saskatchewan RIver to view the seasonal changes each day. His dedication to his work was reflected in his long work day and by only taking the same two weeks of holidays each year- at the time of his birthday! Over his 43 year career in dentistry, he was dedicated to doing his best for people and considered it a privilege to serve the people who chose him as their dentist. Dad also served his community as an active volunteer and member of the Community Foundation, the Rotary Club and Music Festival, the YMCA, the Kinsmen, as well as many other organizations. Dad and Mom enjoyed supporting local music and theatre at the Esplanade and the Medicine Hat College. This year, Dad was so pleased to become an Honorary Member of the Rotary Club for his dedicated lifetime service. Mom and Dad were most proud of their relationship with St. John’s Presbyterian Church, where they served as elders for many years. Faith and service were an integral part of life for both of them. Upon retirement, Dad continued to be a member of the YMCA and Connaught Golf Club and followed a healthy routine and active lifestyle. He enjoyed travelling to Montana with his family and golfing at Connaught golf course – still enjoying a few rounds this summer! He loved how golf connected him with friends and family. Dad was deeply proud of all of his family and never missed an opportunity to share that with them or with anyone who would listen! Dad lived a wonderful life and recognized how fortunate he was. To quote our dad, “To live at this time, in God’s world with all the blessings I have received, my cup overflows with thankfulness.”

A celebration of life will be held on October 31st, 2020 at 3:00 pm at ST. JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 504 2nd Street SE. Due to current restrictions there will be limited seating at the service. Please R.S.V.P to SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL at 403-528-2599 on or before 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30th, 2020. Live streaming of the service can be found on the Saamis Memorial Site on the day of the funeral starting at 2:55 p.m. Graveside interment will be a private moment for the family. Those who wish to honour Al’s memory may send a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. 200, 119 – 14th Street NW, Calgary, AB T1A 7L5. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Al Garden. 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.

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1941 ~ RONALD “RON”

WILLIAM TKACHUK ~ 2020
Ronald “Ron” Tkachuk of Medicine Hat, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at the age of 79 years. Ron leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Maureen and daughter, Kelli Tkachuk. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Vera Tkachuk; one sister, Gwen Johnston. The family would like to thank the nursing staff at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital 5 west main for their kindness and wonderful care. The family will have a private family time of remembrance. Memorial gifts in Ron’s name may be made to the Alzheimer Society, 201, 770 – 6th Street SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4J6. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ron Tkachuck. 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.

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AUSTIN BRIAN BENZ

January 29, 2001 – October 22, 2020

It is with profound sadness that the family of Austin Brian Benz announce his unexpected passing in Ontario as the result of an automobile accident on Thursday, October 22, 2020, at the age of 19 years. Austin will be forever remembered in the hearts of his parents, Shane and Laura; brothers, Aaron and Ashton; Gma Darlene Larson; grandparents, Bill (Margaret) Reimer; aunts, Jennifer (Brandon) Poole, Amanda (Buck) Dixon, Tracy (Austin) Peel, Carrie Benz and Kaelee (Derek) Anderson; uncles, Dale (Peggy) Reimer, Shaun (Courtney) Benz and Bob Benz as well as numerous great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, friends and his girlfriend, Abbi and her family, who took him in as their own. He was predeceased by his grandpa, Gerry Larson. Austin was born and raised in Redcliff. He went to school in Redcliff and graduated from Eagle Butte High School in 2019. Hockey was a big part of Austin’s life. He played from age 7-18 in Redcliff Minor Hockey either wearing the ‘C’ or an ‘A’ on his jersey on more than one occasion. Socializing and his friends played a huge role in making him the funny, social and crazy kid he was. He also enjoyed traveling to various destinations with friends and family. Austin was currently working with Borea Construction on the windmills the last couple of years and absolutely loved his job! He loved all of his amazing coworkers who became like family to him. Austin will be deeply missed and never forgotten! Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, October 31, 2020, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. A private family time of remembrance will be held at a future date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at 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”

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EMMA KLAIBER

August 16, 1928 ~ October 24, 2020

Mrs. Emma Klaiber, beloved wife of the late Albert Klaiber, passed from this life into Glory on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 92 years of age. God was gracious to take her quickly as that was her desire. Left to mourn Emma’s passing are her children, Norbert (Linda) Klaiber and Hilma (Gerhard) Brost; grandchildren, Brandon (Rebekah) Klaiber, Justin (Jacinda) Klaiber, Aaron (Sherry) Brost, Tim (Jenna) Brost and Sara (Grant) Hopkins; great-grandchildren, Ryder, Lyla and Jaxon Klaiber; Kira, Karver and Kanyon Klaiber; Kyler and Kristopher Brost; Nic, Drake and Milo Brost as well as Finley Hopkins. Emma also leaves behind a sister-in-law, Elvire as well as several nieces, nephews and their families.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, Albert in 2001; parents, Andreas and Sara Necker; two sisters in infancy, Elsa and Alma as well as another sister, Hilma at the age of 22; sister-in-law, Erna and her only brother, Albert who also passed at the age of 92.

Emma was born in Kulm, Bessarabia and immigrated to Canada in 1952. She met Albert Klaiber in Medicine Hat as his family had also immigrated here. They married in 1956 and had two children, Norbert and Hilma. As a couple, they loved the Lord and served and followed Him throughout their lives, a devotion which was passed down to their children and is a blessing to the following generations. Together they had an amazing gift for hospitality. Countless friends enjoyed Emma’s fine meals which were more like feasts. Her extra tall German black forest cakes were somewhat of a legend. Emma never did anything in a small way even though she was generally quiet in nature. You would find her singing while doing her tasks around the house. When baking kuchen it was always 40-50 at one time… enough to fill the freezer. Emma made noodles in the same fashion. There were noodles spread on table cloths all throughout the house to dry before packaging them for the freezer. Some of her other German specialties and family favorites were strudels, kase knoepfle, homemade sauerkraut, pfeffer sosse, milch reis and floating islands to mention a few. The grandkids all have such fond memories of her great cooking and baking. Emma was also very artistic. She made pictures that were made of straw, an art she learned in the old country. She would cut open the straw with a special knife, flattened the straw and then dyed in various colours before beginning her masterpieces. She would visualize all the pictures she made in her mind, nothing designed on paper. These are all unique with very delicate detailing, geometrical designs as well as every variety of flower you could imagine. These beautiful creations left for us are a true treasure as they are one of a kind. Emma also loved her flower gardens and vegetable gardens. So many of her loves and giftings have been passed on which makes the memory of her so sweet. She also loved to go for long walks in the earlier years at Strathcona Park, and in the latter years, on the Ross Glen coulee trails where she was a familiar face to many.
She spent the last 8 years of her life as a resident in assisted living at Chinook Village. We cannot say enough about the amazing care she received from all the loving nurses, care aides, kitchen staff and housekeeping staff. We thank you with all our hearts. We know God will return His blessing over each of you for the kindness and love shown to her. From this past week, we will add our thanks to EMS, doctors and nurses that attended to her and the final stop of less than a day at St Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice. We thank you for all the attention given to our mother. God bless you all.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Friday, October 30, 2020, between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. A Memorial Celebration of Emma’s life will be held at River Valley Community Church, 1101 Queen Street S.E., Medicine Hat on Saturday, October 31, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Randy Blatz officiating. Private interment will take place prior to the Memorial Celebration. The service will be live-streamed and may be accessed by visiting the River Valley Community Church facebook page at https://m.facebook.com/RiverValleyCommunityChurch/ (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at http://www.cooksouthland.com). If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to Whispering Pines Camp, Box 23110, Medicine Hat Mall P.O., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4C7. 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”

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LILLIAN HERTZ

1936 ~ 2020

On Monday, October 26, 2020, the angels came for our mom, Lillian Hertz, beloved wife of the late Ralph Hertz. She passed peacefully at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat at the age of 84 years. Lillian was born on October 20, 1936 in Standard, Alberta, a joy to her parents, John and Mary Zeliznik, and older brothers, Bill and Tom. They lived in the residence at the C.P Rail station in Standard, Alberta and she carried the love of the train whistle with her even after moving away from home. She received her schooling in Standard, enjoying her love of music, friends, family and horses.
Mom married the love of her life, Ralph Hertz, on August 18, 1956 and shortly after moved to the Hertz Family Farm, after making Dad promise they would never raise chickens and she would never have to roll her own cigarettes (he kept his promise).
Mom worked at Dad’s side on the family farm and kept very busy raising their 5 children with love and devotion. She hauled every one of her kids to every sport they were involved in, being their #1 fan always, not because she had to, but because she wanted to.
When mom and dad retired, they built their dream home in Medicine Hat and enjoyed their golf and socializing with all the gang at Park Meadows. Mom loved and was devoted to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was so proud of each of their accomplishments. Mom was an avid curler, active in politics, loved to golf, and recently developed an obsession for diamond painting (blame it on TA). She kept her love of sports, watching all her favourite teams. She especially enjoyed her season tickets to Tigers games and rarely missed a game.
Mom had great faith in the Lord and was an active member of the Holy Family Parish.
Left to cherish and forever remember all her love and devotion are her children: Cheryl (Dale), Darcy (Joddi), Rick (Mary), Terry-Anne, and Greg (Natalie); her grandchildren: Lindsy, Mandy (Matt), Karly (Whyat), Danny (Silvia), Tyson (Callie), Brandon (Kallie), Kurtis (Courtney), Keely (Matt) and Eden and her great-grandchildren: Sloane, Fowler, Hayes, Hadley, and Bo. She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Ralph; her parents, John and Mary and her brothers, Bill and Tom.
A Private Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish with interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at http://www.cooksouthland.com) Flowers are gratefully declined but if you desire, memorial donations in Lillian’s name may be made directly to St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice, 156 – 3rd Street S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1. 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”

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