December 31, 2021

By Obituaries on December 31, 2021.

1917 – SUSIE RICHTER – 2021

Susie Alma Richter (McDougall) of Medicine Hat, passed away on Saturday, December 25, 2021 at the age of 104 years. She leaves to cherish her memory three children, Sharon Hanson, Doug and Grace MacDougall, John and Cindy MacDougall, six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren; two sisters, Betty and Anne as well as many dear friends and family. She was predeceased by her husbands Lloyd MacDougall and Rudolph Richter and by one son David MacDougall. Susie was born in 1917, close to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. As the family farmhouse was not finished, they were living in temporary quarters in their barn. Peter and Nettie Fast had ten children. Susie, being the fourth child, was conscripted to help with so many daily jobs centered around growing grain crops, raising cattle, and her favorite, helping to raise younger siblings. Being part of the Mennonite community, Sue chose a local Bible institute to enrich her knowledge of the Bible. Then she turned her face eastward, stopping just south of Winnipeg to work for a rich uncle (yes, really, the family owned a potato chip company). Then Ontario called. We love the black and white photo of her with a friend, paddling down one of the many canals. She contributed to the Canadian Armed forces team during World War II by producing silk for parachutes. Back for another round of Bible Education, this time at Briercrest Bible Institute. Co-Ed activities were non-existent there, but somehow, mysteriously, a glance at an athletic, humorous senior student named Lloyd MacDougall, lit a match. The President of the Institute presided over the wedding in a quaint country setting. The new couple started a new church in Davidson and birthed a lovely daughter, Sharon. Lloyd loved the road and Briercrest came calling. He traveled every state and province in the U.S.A. and Canada with musical teams, extending invitations to prospective students to come to Briercrest. That’s aside from a teaching load … but our family loved the students, who were just a bit younger than Lloyd and Sue. Douglas was added to the family there. They raised us in a chilly lean-to attached to an Air Force hangar. Our suite was a slightly upgraded mechanical bay. But the war was over and the surplus buildings now served as a complete campus. After eight years Lloyd pastored a church in Estevan for a year. Sue was a pioneer, breaking the soil for lawns and gardens in the new subdivisions of Saskatoon – three new homes but dust for toothpaste. While Lloyd used his talents as a sales guy, Mom took time away from canning, cooking, and caring for two kids, to do some revenue work. She sewed draperies, boarded international students from Hong Kong, Pakistan, and India, and other people who were interesting to the whole family. Her talents other than sewing included music, handcrafts, and sports. She gave back from her Christian Education days by teaching children from age three. Sharon went to Briercrest from Saskatoon, after excelling in academics and music. She found her perfect match, (John) there and ministered in California until retirement. Doug followed the lead and graduated from Briercrest. David and John were added to the family in 1955 and 1964. David passed away too early at 28 years. John found a business career in Toronto after graduating from the University of Regina. When Lloyd passed away at age 48, Susie spent time as a single Mom, but after eight years she moved to Melville, becoming a new wife again. Her life changed in an instant as she walked to a luncheon one winter day in 1995. She sustained over a dozen fractures, head injuries, and bruises. She defied the doctors who told her she would never walk again, took a year to go through rehabilitation, and gained strength to walk. When her second husband died, she joined Grace and Doug in Medicine Hat, enjoying life at Park Meadows, Chinook Village, and finally retiring to Good Samaritan. She showed a lifetime determination to follow Jesus and wove it into every fabric of her life. She shared her faith and gained strength from it. We will miss her and her unselfish, untiring support. A private graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: office@pattisonfuneralhome.com subject heading: Susie Richter, 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

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1924 ~ MARION BERRETH ~ 2021

Marion Jessie Berreth of Medicine Hat, passed away on Wednesday, December 29th, 2021 at the age of 97 years. Marion leaves to cherish her memory her children, Shirley Countryman (Wayne) and Brian Berreth (Roxanne); grandchildren, Ross Countryman (Nona), Jeanette Countryman-Smith (Doug), Clinton Countryman (Amber), Cody Berreth, Dylan Berreth (Kristin), Kelli Harris (James) and Stephen Heller; 12 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; sister, Ellen Chadwick; sisters-in-law, Betty Braniff and Gladys Berreth; and brother-in-law, Carl Christiansen. Marion was predeceased by her spouse, William I. Berreth; parents, William and Edith Braniff; son, David Berreth; brothers, Charley, Harry and Jack; and sisters, Francis and Lillian. There will be no funeral service held at this time. Memorial gifts in Marion's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 325 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Marion Berreth. 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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1929 – ROSE GETZ – 2021

Rose Getz of Medicine Hat, passed away on Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the age of 92 years, beloved wife of the late Valentine Getz. She leaves to cherish her memory two children, Gary Getz and Glen (Judy) Getz; two grandchildren, David Getz (Jade Anhelher; their children Bria and Laken); and Jade Getz (Krista Lauridsen). Family and friends who wish to attend the chapel service and those who wish to attend virtually are asked to refer to Rose’s obituary on our website at pattisonfuneralhome.com where updated information will be posted. Due to the restrictions brought forward by the Chief Medical Officer of Health, indoor public gatherings are to be kept to 50 people. Masks are mandatory. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: office@pattisonfuneralhome.com subject heading: Rose Getz.
Funeral Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

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1931 ~ JUDITH HICKSON ~ 2021

Judith Moira Hickson of Medicine Hat, passed away on Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the age of 90 years. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Judith Hickson. Funeral arrangements by
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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1937- NAOMI McCRACKEN – 2021

Mrs. Naomi R. V. McCracken passed away on Saturday, December 25, 2021, in Medicine Hat, at the age of 84 years. The Funeral Service was held yesterday at St. Peter Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Naomi’s memory may be made to the St. Peter Lutheran Church. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Naomi McCracken. 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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1945 ~ KEES KUIPER ~ 2021

Kees Kuiper of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, December 24th, 2021 at the age of 76 years. Kees was predeceased by his parents, Johannes and Neeltje Kuiper. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Kees Kuiper. 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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DARRYL WHITTLETON

1967 ~ 2021

Mr. Darryl Stanley Whittleton passed away in Redcliff, AB., on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at the age of 54 years. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A private celebration of Darryl’s life, will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, AB., with Life Celebrant Gerry Getz officiating. (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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ERIC WILLIAM LEEKS

1963 ~ 2021

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Eric William Leeks, who passed away peacefully at home in the loving arms of his family in Medicine Hat, AB, on Tuesday, December 28th, 2021, at the age of 58. Eric was born in Eatonia, Saskatchewan on January 27th, 1963, to Frederick and Phyllis (Denton) Leeks.
Eric leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Carolyn MacLean-Leeks along with his children, Devin (Amanda) Leeks and their children, Ryker and Amelia; Erika Leeks and her daughter, Vada; and Carleen Smyke and her children, Nikki, Dezmon, Kaiden and Aaryn all of Medicine Hat. He is also survived by his brothers, Russell Leeks (Weyburn, Sask) and Mark Leeks (Medicine Hat); his sister, Mary Gauthier (Medicine Hat); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Eric was predeceased by his sisters, Margaret Tatum, Lynn McLeod and her husband, Harold; half-brother; Geoff Glasper; brother-in-law, Scott Gauthier; and parents-in-law, Alexander and Joan MacLean.
Eric grew up in Laporte, Sask. He moved to Medicine Hat with his family in 1979 and spent most of his life working in the oil field. He was a consultant up until his illness last year. He met the love of his life, Carolyn, in 1983 and they were married in July 2007 in Cape Breton. Eric loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He also loved fishing, golfing, dancing and card games. He particularly enjoyed his trips to Cape Breton to visit Carolyn’s family and to British Columbia visiting Erika, along with camping and houseboating. Eric will also be missed by his best friend, his dog Diesel who he took on endless walks and drives.

“To you, and my Devin, and Erika,
I give you my heart, my soul
Because without you all
I would be lost”
Love Dad & Hubby

Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions in place, the service honouring Eric’s life will be by invitation only. The Celebration of Eric’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. The chapel service will be live-streamed and anyone wishing to experience the service are encouraged to visit http://www.cooksouthland.com and select the View Broadcast Button on the homepage at service time. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at http://www.cooksouthland.com) If friends so desire, memorial donations in Eric’s name may be made directly to the Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation (Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre), 666 – 5th Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4H6. 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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FERN NASH

1953 ~ 2021

Mrs. Fern Arlene Nash, beloved wife of Gord, passed away in Medicine Hat on Monday, December 27, 2021, at the age of 68 years. Along with Gord, Fern leaves to cherish her memory: two children, Crystal (Trevor) Bollinger and James Nash; grandson, Kalan Bollinger; two sisters-in-law, Jean and Mary Willis as well as other extended family members. Fern lived most of her life in the Medicine Hat area. A graveside celebration honouring Fern’s life will be held at a future date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at http://www.cooksouthland.com). If friends so desire, tributes in memory of Fern may be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 204, 1865 Dunmore Road S.E., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 1Z8 or to the SPCA, 55 Southwest Drive S.W., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 8E8. 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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GORDON LESLIE THOMPSON

August 1st, 1944 – December 22nd, 2021

Gordon Thompson passed away in Medicine Hat, AB on Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021, at the age of 77 years. He is survived by his brothers, Lynn (Susan) Thompson, Sid (Joan) Thompson and Barry Thompson; sisters, Linda (Ron) Windrim, Kathy (Dale) Garinger and Cindy (Terry) Babiy; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Kay Thompson; sister and brother-in-law, Vicky and Howard Martin and sister-in-law, MaryJean Thompson. Gord was born August 1st, 1944, in Medicine Hat to Harry and Kay Thompson and grew up in Ralston. As an adolescent, he excelled at hardball…. his chosen position was “catcher”. After high school, Gord enlisted in the Armed Forces, first with the Army and then for several years with the Navy. After leaving the Armed Forces, Gord chose a direction in life very different from most people. He was a well-traveled and well-read individual who marched to the beat of his own drum. Not one to stay in any place for a long time, his life’s pathway was one most wouldn’t understand but it made him happy. He even had the distinction of being quoted in the New York Times a few years ago and who of us can make that same claim to fame? After living a sometimes-troubled life, we hope Gord can now rest in peace. Cremation has taken place and the family will privately honour Gord’s life at a later date. Those who wish to remember Gordon with a donation, may do so to the Salvation Army, 164 Stratton Way SE, Medicine Hat, AB.T1B 3R3 or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be made at http://www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are made by

Grace Memorial Affordable Burial & Cremation
1924 10th Ave N.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1C 1T5
http://www.gracememorial.com
403-905-0440

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JOAN WENDY RAY

1945 ~ 2021

Mrs. Joan Wendy Ray, beloved wife of the late Jim Ray, passed away in Medicine Hat on Saturday, December 25, 2021, at the age of 76 years. Joan’s memory will live on within the hearts of her four children: Verna Fang of Welland, ON., Donald (Shannon) Main of Regina, SK., Dennis Main of Welland, ON. and Mervyn (Wanda) Main of Edmonton, AB. as well as numerous other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by one daughter, Kathy Main. A graveside service honouring Joan’s life will be held at a future date. (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"

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TINA RESSLER

1934 ~ 2021

Bernadine Regina ‘Tina’ Ressler, beloved wife of the late Joe Ressler, passed away at Masterpiece Southlands Meadows in Medicine Hat on Thursday, December 30, 2021, at the age of 87 years. Further announcements will follow upon completion of the arrangements. (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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