April 16, 2022

1932 – LILLIAN KNODEL – 2022

Lillian Francis Knodel of Medicine Hat passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2022 at the age of 89 years, beloved wife of the late Milbert Knodel. She leaves to cherish her memory one son Dana (Cynette) Knodel; daughter-in-law Corrine Knodel; her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Tara (Daniel), their son Zachary, Alysha (Allan), their children Athen and Atlas; one brother-in-law Harold Knodel and one sister-in-law Bev Dirk; two special nieces, Teresa (Chico) Glauser, daughter Cheriee; and Lisa (Doug) Wheeler, son Cody Strachan. She was predeceased by her husband Milbert on March 23, 2019; two sons, Duane and Daryl and by her parents Regina and Michael Dirk; four brothers and four sisters. Lillian was born on July 6, 1932 on the farm at Liebenthal, Saskatchewan. At the age of 12 she went to live for the next three years with her sister, Aggie Baron, who was a teacher at Richville School. In 1948, she returned home and then moved with her parents to Medicine Hat. She worked at Medalta Pottery until her marriage to Milbert Knodel on February 22, 1952. They then moved to Calgary for a short time and then back to Medicine Hat. In 1962, they moved to Lethbridge for the next 36 years, returning to Medicine Hat in 1997. While in Lethbridge, Lillian was an Avon dealer and a Tupperware dealer for many years. She was a member of the Eagles Lodge for 18 years and an assistant Cub Leader for three years. As a family, they enjoyed camping and playing cards. She was also enjoyed curling and bowling. Lillian was a devoted wife and mother who was proud of the three sons they raised and loved spending time with her grandchildren. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON CHAPEL on Saturday, April 16, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. with Life Celebrant Pat Grisonich. The service will be live streamed, and family and friends who are unable to attend are invited to watch the service by searching for the Pattison Funeral Home Youtube page. The video will go live 10 minutes prior to service time and will remain on the Youtube page for future viewing. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: office@pattisonfuneralhome.com subject heading: Lillian Knodel, 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

1939 ~ FRED AMMANN ~ 2022

Freddy “Fred” Walter Ammann of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, April 1st, 2022 at the age of 82 years. The Funeral Service was held on Thursday at Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede Grounds – 2055 – 21st Avenue SE Medicine Hat, AB. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Fred Ammann Ammann. Funeral arrangements 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.

BETTY AITKEN

1942 ~ 2022

 

It is with profound sadness that Gerald ‘Gerry’ Aitken announces the passing of his beloved wife, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Aitken. She passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at the age of 80 years. Along with Gerry, left to cherish Betty’s memory are her three sons, Christopher, Robert and Ronald; grandchildren, Nickolas, Katelynn and Jeffery; great-grandson, Beckette as well as her three sisters, Alice, Rosemary and Peggy. Betty will be missed by all who knew her. At Betty’s request, there will be no formal funeral service. (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”

BRUCE SMITH

October 8, 1947 ~ April 10, 2022

 

Bruce John Smith, beloved husband of Clare, passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2022, at the age of 74 years. Along with Clare, his beloved wife of 53 years, Bruce will be remembered by his children: Chantelle (Chris) Reid, Dannielle (Luc†) Riendeau, David John Smith and daughter-in-law, Travisty Smith as well as his grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and friends. Bruce’s life will be silently remembered by family and friends without the proceedings of a formal funeral service. (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”

DON MASON

1933 ~ 2022

 

Donald Leo Paul Mason, beloved husband of Virginia Mason, passed away at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at the age of 88 years. Along with Virginia, Don’s memory will be cherished by his son, daughter, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, sister and brother. Don was predeceased by his son, David; parents, Gerald and Ellen as well as five brothers. A private service will be held. (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”

GERALDINE SCHNEIDER OPALKA

1932 – 2022

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Geraldine Alice Schneider Opalka. Gerry passed away quietly on the morning of March 28th, 2022, leaving her family and friends with a wealth of wonderful memories. She was predeceased by her first husband Chesley Schneider and second husband William Opalka. Born April 16, 1932, in Gull Lake Saskatchewan to Florence and Harry Allen. Geraldine is survived by her sister Mary Louise Turgeon (Gerry Turgeon), son Brennan Schneider (Susan Schneider) and daughter Cindy Roberts (Tom Roberts); grandchildren, Jennifer Roberts, Jason Roberts, Zoë Schneider (Jonathan Vaughn), and Nickolas Schneider, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by Bill’s nephew Darren, Rose Anne, and Hannah Rud, and niece Pam and Mike Hole.

Gerry’s kind smile and twinkling blue eyes were the first thing you would notice about her, followed by her deep kindness and affable nature. Gerry was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother; taking joy in the moments spent with her family. Gerry was an artist and gardener; cultivating and creating beauty in everything she touched.

Her passion for nature led her and Ches to find a cabin in the Shuswaps of B.C. in 1975. The cabin was a place for her family and friends to join and connect with each other and nature. After Ches passed away and Gerry married William, the cabin welcomed him and his family as well. So many great memories were created there, with Gerry as the catalyst.

Gerry’s love of travel led her and Ches to Maui and Mexico, as well as countless road trips. Gerry and Bill explored Portugal and made many return trips to Arizona. She had a love of the plants and style of the Southwest. One of her favorite places to be was in her garden in the early morning, listening to the birds.

With her friends from knitting club, Gerry co-founded an artisan shop called Creative Hands in Medicine Hat in the 1980’s. Gerry loved her watercolour friends at the Strathcona Arts Studio. Her family cherishes her many watercolour paintings and cards. She was a long-time member of St. John’s Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday School and Explorer’s. Gerry’s quiet and strong faith saw her through life’s many ups and downs. She loved the quiet beauty of this world. We would like to thank the staff at River Ridge for the compassionate care Gerry received.

A private celebration of Gerry’s life will take place on her birthday at St. John’s Presbyterian church. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: office@pattisonfuneralhome.com subject heading: Geraldine Opalka, 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

REV. LAWRENCE GEHRING, PhD

December 24, 1921 – December 10, 2021

 

Lawrence Raymond Gehring was born December 24, 1921. When the Lord ushered His servant home, he was 99 years young!

Lawrence was born in Medicine Hat and was one of 12 children and the youngest male. In his 99 years of living, he served in the Canadian Military working with wounded German soldiers as he could speak fluent German; and more importantly because The Lord trusted his heart of compassion. It was this heart of compassion and love for the Lord that would be the springboard to a “lifelong” ministry that spanned those early days ministering to others in a military medical ward and to his last days ministering to others caring for his medical needs.

Lawrence lived an amazing and impactful life that saw him marry the beautiful Laura Paulsen, raise 4 wonderful children; Lyle, Derryll, Barry and Laurie; pastor churches in cities as diverse as Swift Current Saskatchewan, Vernon B.C, Del Paso Heights Sacramento California, Grandview Washington, Highland Park California, New Albany Indiana, Medicine Hat Alberta to Turlock California and many more destinations of services.

Lawrence pursued knowledge throughout his life, education was paramount. From his high school years learning by correspondence all the way to earning his Doctor of Philosophy degree from California Graduate School of Theology in 1973, until his passing. His Bible was always by his side and his love and faith of Jesus Christ never wavered throughout life’s trials.

This passion manifested itself by way of early education within the foundation of the Church of God. Starting in the early seventies, daycare services within the church was a hallmark that Lawrence brought to every congregation thereafter, a trail blazer in pre-school early education at the Church.

Lawrence Raymond Gehring’s life echoes in Eternity and he would say to all of us, “Be strong and courageous, never fearful or afraid for The Lord Your God is with you!” Joshua 1:9 and The Lord now says to Lawrence, “He served God’s purpose in his own generation!” Acts 13:36

Lawrence is survived by his loving wife, Laura Gehring; children, Lyle (Dina), Derryll (Maureen), Barry (Brenda) and Laurie Gehring Dotson (Todd); grandchildren, Allisyn Gehring-Gustafson, Krisdina Gehring, Chris Gehring, Tyler Gehring, Kevin Gehring, Hannah Gehring, Morgan Gehring, Marshall Gehring, Bethany Dotson Visser, Andrew Dotson and Nathan Dotson; as well as three great-grandchildren, Isaiah, Ava, and Oliver. He was pre-deceased by Mother Karoline, Father Emmanuel and many brothers and sisters.

A Memorial Service to take place at Southview Church of God on Saturday, April 23 at 11:00am. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery at 1:30pm.

SHELLEY ANNE CARLSON

May 19, 1962 ~ April 11, 2022

 

Shelley Anne Carlson passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Monday, April 11, 2022, at the age of 59 years. Shelley leaves to cherish her memory: two sons, Theoren Carlson / Lawrence (Jessica Robinson) and Nicholas Doehring; father, Glen ‘Tiny’ Carlson as well as her brother, Steve Carlson and his children, Mitchell and Becky. Her memory will also live on in the hearts of her uncles, aunts, extended family and many friends. She was predeceased by her mother, Gloria Carlson. Shelley was born in Brandon, Manitoba on May 19, 1962. She moved with her family as they made their home in a few different communities before settling in Medicine Hat. This is where she received the majority of her education before entering business college. With her degree in hand, Shelley entered the world of business and purchased her own floral shop. A short time later, she sold that business and partnered in the operations of Panorama Bowling Lanes where she made many good friends. A number of years later, Shelley moved on to various other positions within the community, staying busy with book keeping and administration. She enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping and travelling abroad. Shelley’s family was always her priority and she was very supportive of her boys, especially Nicholas with his BMX and bowling events. Her memory will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. A celebration of Shelley’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. with Life Celebrant Gerry Getz officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery with a time of fellowship thereafter in the Cook Southland Reception Facility. Shelley’s celebration will be live streamed. Those who cannot attend but wish to experience the celebration may 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) Those wishing to remember Shelley may do so through a donation to the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, payable to the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation, 666 – 5 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”

VIVIAN KENNEDY

December 4, 1934 ~ April 1, 2022

 

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Eleanor Vivian Kennedy (nee Bradshaw) announce her peaceful passing at the age of 87 years. She transitioned on Friday, April 1, 2022, at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital with her husband and family by her side. Vivian was born in Binscarth, Manitoba and raised on her family’s large farm. She was the oldest of four siblings and was fully immersed in every element of working the farm from a young age. Vivian had a life-long love of animals (particularly horses) and was an excellent rider. As an avid gardener and lover of nature and the outdoors, she knew everything there was to know about life on a farm and the natural cycles of the seasons and life. After high school, Vivian completed teachers’ college in Waskada, Manitoba and there, met the love of her life, Cecil Kennedy. They were married in 1957 and Vivian went on to complete a nursing degree, while her husband completed his studies and apprenticeship as a mechanic. Vivian lived a life of great adventure with her husband at her side. They moved across the country to the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia and adopted two children, Sean, and Payton Lynne. Vivian relished her new role as full-time mother and created a life for her family multiple times over as they made various moves to different towns and cities in Western Canada. Vivian was a quick study and made fast friends wherever she landed, becoming a beloved member of each community she lived in. Vivian was charming and personable; she was highly intelligent and always ready to lend a hand. She was a strong and resilient woman – the person many would come to for help, especially in challenging times. She was a member of the Alberta Women’s Institute and TOPS, and a community volunteer with various organizations throughout her life. She enjoyed reading, curling, square dancing and roaming around Canada and the US with Cecil, camping out in their trailer with new and old friends. Vivian also had a keen interest in healthy living and was always reading and researching different health and wellness practices. She practiced yoga and other healing modalities at a time when most hadn’t heard of any such thing. She always sought to spend time in spiritual study on her own and with her Church community. Vivian is survived by her beloved husband Cecil Kennedy; her son Sean Kennedy (Tracy, Chandra, Belinda, Mitchell, Raeme and Leif); daughter Payton Lynne Kennedy (Greyson); sister Marlene Jones (Barb, Bev and Bruce); brother Gary Bradshaw (Jamie, Nolan and Christie) as well as her sister-in-law Peggy Bradshaw (Neil and Kevin). She is predeceased by her parents Rex and Dorothy Bradshaw; nephew Brent; eldest brother Murray Bradshaw and her brother-in-law Dave Jones. An interment ceremony will take place in the family plot in Binscarth, Manitoba at a later date in 2022. (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”

WAKARCHUK

 

David Alexander Wakarchuk, aged 66 years, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2022, surrounded by family and friends at Surrey Memorial Hospital. David was the first born of three children to Alexander Wakarchuk (d.2019) and Donelda Niles (nee Wagner). David is survived by his mother Donelda Niles, partner Mercidita Sanchez, his sister Marcia Wakarchuk Jones, brother Warren Wakarchuk, his three sons Victor, Forrest and Evert and many other relatives.

 

David grew up in an environment where he spent a lot of time with his maternal grandparents which influenced the man he became. He was a true first born in that he was a trailblazer and somewhat of hell raiser too. He had an interest in science from an early age, which turned out to be a passion and driving force for him. David was a career scientist and founded the company Synergy Semiochemicals which he considered his legacy. He wore the hats of a chemist, a businessman, an innovator, and of a forest ecologist and formed close working relationships with fellow beetle enthusiasts worldwide.

 

David had an adventurous nature, loved a challenge, and did not like too many rules. He had been fascinated by and involved by high-power rocketry and in that pursuit, he fell in love with the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. He had a great love for cooking and throughout his life he created many culinary delights especially with his backyard smoker. Recently he had taken up hunting and shooting as a hobby.

 

He was taken from us far too young and will be sorely missed.

 

A celebration of life is to be held on June 4th by invitation. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.ca/en/donate