November 25, 2023
By Obituaries on November 25, 2023.
ROBERT L. MELLISH
ROBERT L. MELLISH 1952-2023
In loving memory of Robert Lea Mellish “Bob”, 71, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a man whose life enriched the lives of all who knew him. Bob passed away peacefully with his family by his side at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary AB on November 9, 2023.
Born in Moncton NB, he was the son of George Thomas and Jeanette Maude (Patriquin) Mellish. In addition to his parents, Bob was pre-deceased by his siblings George, Alvin, Victoria (Muir) Chase, and Helen (Eddie) Durette.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of love and memories and will be deeply missed by his wife of 48 years, Janice; his children David of Calgary AB, James (Sarah) of Medicine Hat AB, Andrew (Rachel) of Medicine Hat AB, and Michael (Liyang) of Lethbridge AB; his beloved grandchildren Logan, Ethan, Owen, Ronan, and Kira; brothers Herman (Arloene) of Washington State, Jim (Anne) of Moncton NB, and Charles (Vicki) of Welland ON, as well as many extended family members.
Bob was especially close with his parents, often reflecting on his idealic childhood in Albert County with warmth and affection. He was a natural storyteller, delighting his family with vivid tales from his youth.
Bob’s academic journey was distinguished by notable achievements, including graduating with an Honors degree in History (1974) and a Bachelor of Law degree (1976) both from the University of New Brunswick where he was awarded the prestigious Beaverbrook Scholarship.
University life was not just about academics for Bob; it was a time of forming lifelong friendships and developing a passion for various ethnic cuisines. However, the most significant event during his university years was meeting Janice (nee MacDonald), a nursing student from Moncton NB. Bob often shared with his sons that marrying Janice was the best decision he ever made.
Bob’s professional journey began at the Moncton law firm Forbes Radford DeBow in 1976, where he was made partner. The family relocated to Halifax, NS, in 1981, as Bob pursued an MBA at Dalhousie University, which he completed in 1983. Bob then joined the Halifax law firm Daley Black & Moreira, where he became a senior partner.
Throughout his career, Bob remained deeply involved with the legal community, maintaining memberships in both the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick Bar Associations. His legal journey saw him transition through significant mergers, working for Patterson Palmer (2001-2004) and subsequently Patterson Law (2004-2014). In 2014, Bob embraced a new challenge as General Counsel at the Halifax engineering firm CBCL, a position he held with distinction until his retirement from the law in 2021.
Throughout his professional life, Bob’s generous spirit found expression in various charitable endeavors and organizations. He held a special place in his heart for his role as Chairman of the Abilities Foundation as well as his service to St. John’s Ambulance, for which he was made an Officer of the Order of St. John.
In 2007, Bob was bestowed the prestigious title of Honorary Consul of Iceland in Halifax, a position he held until 2021. His dedication and service in this role were acknowledged with the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2022, a recognition that brought immense pride to Bob. His family remains very proud of the legacy he has left behind, both professionally and in his service to the community.
Family was such an important part of Bob’s life, the source of his deepest joy and pride. He took immense pleasure in watching his sons engage in their spirited joking, debating, and antics a sight that never failed to bring a smile to his face. The family’s heart and joy expanded with the arrival of his daughters-in-law Sarah, Nancy, and Rachel. Bob cherished them not just as additions to the family but as his own, appreciating all of the love and happiness they brought to his life. His beloved grandsons Logan, Ethan, Owen, and Ronan, and his adored granddaughter Kira were the apples of Bob’s eye.
Central to this family tapestry is his wife, Janice. Bob’s love for her was absolute. Janice was not just his partner in life but his confidante, his co-conspirator in joy, and the cornerstone of the happy and loving home they built together. They enjoyed their travels together including visits to China, Europe, Iceland, the United States and many parts of Canada.
Bob was far from a bystander in family affairs. Together with Janice, he was the heartbeat of family gatherings, orchestrating meals and hosting events for Thanksgivings, birthdays, and countless special occasions. Their home was a hub of hospitality, with endless Saturday brunches and Sunday dinners where all were welcomed with open arms. Whether he was preparing a 36-pound turkey with summer savory dressing for a festive feast, crafting a spicy Indian curry, or serving a classic Sunday roast with gravy and mom’s Yorkshire pudding, Bob’s table was renowned for both its fare and the warmth of its gathering.
Bob’s absence will be deeply felt, but the love and lessons he imparted will continue to guide and inspire us. As our family tries to move forward without him, we take comfort in imagining Bob where he loved to be – in the kitchen, with the aroma of his cooking filling the air, as if he’s just around the corner, preparing supper for all of us once again.
So come to the table everyone! Dad says supper is almost ready…
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, and in loving memory of Bob, memorial donations be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation. Condolences can be shared with the family online at
http://www.fairhavenmemorial.ca. A memorial service will be held in Moncton NB, in the summer of 2024.
DOLORES “DOLLY” MARGUERITE LATULIPPE
DOLORES “DOLLY” MARGUERITE LATULIPPE March 25th, 1940 November 19th, 2023 Dolores Latulippe passed away on November 19th, 2023, at the age of 83 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Lucie (James) McDonald, Crystal (Brad) Burns and Monique Noel; grandchildren, Gabrielle (Jaydon) Eresman, Tyson McDonald and Daniel Garneau; great grandchildren, Payton Eresman, Easton Eresman and Jackson McDonald; brother, Laurent (Mirelle) Lachance; sister Laurentia (Julien) Hebert; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Dolores was predeceased by her parents, Liguori and Alma Lachance; spouse, Louis-Philippe Latulippe; son, Gilles Latulippe; daughter, Lucille (Wes) Fiforowich; as well as 10 siblings.
Dolores was born and raised in Hearst, ON and was the youngest of 13 children. She completed her education at grade 6. Her interests were gardening, baking, berry picking, camping, fishing and family time. Dolores enjoyed the simple things in life and dedicated her life to raising generations of family.
A Celebration of Life will be held in mid-summer 2024. Please visit
http://www.gracememorial.com for funeral arrangement updates and to leave condolences. 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
TERRY VALERIOTE
TERRY VALERIOTE 1946 ~ 2023 Terry Valeriote, age 77, of Medicine Hat, Alberta, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on November 16, 2023. To honour Terry’s wishes, Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, 238 2nd Avenue NE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11:00 am. (Condolences may be expressed and additional information can be found 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”
RICHARD “RICK” FREDERICK VANCLIEAF
RICHARD “RICK” FREDERICK VANCLIEAF June 2nd, 1949 November 22nd, 2023 Rick Vanclieaf passed away on November 22nd, 2023, at the age of 74 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Cindy (Joal) Lebel and Penny (Mike) Pacholek; grandchildren, Amanda, Kat and Coltyn; great grandchildren, Chloe, Domanick and Madilynn; brother, Terry (Audrey) Vanclieaf; his former spouse, Bonnie Evernden; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Rick was predeceased by his common-law spouse, Karin Johansson; parents, Terrance and Winnifred Vanclief; son, Daniel Vanclieaf; brother, Jim Vanclieaf.
Rick enjoyed golfing and was a truck driver at heart. Rick had a way with words that always left the room in stiches.
No formal service will be held. Donations in Rick’s memory may be made to the SPCA. 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
YVETTE KARI-LYNN PETERS
YVETTE KARI-LYNN PETERS December 31, 1972 – Medicine Hat, Alberta November 23, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta Yvette Peters (nee Sorrell) passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved her, on Thursday, November 23, 2023, at 1:10 p.m.
Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Yvette’s family at
http://www.MHFH.com.
In living memory of Yvette Peters, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.
MARIE ANN WEISS
MARIE ANN WEISS May 3rd, 1940 – November 21st, 2023
Marie Weiss passed away on November 21st, 2023, at the age of 83 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Rodney (Tammy) Weiss and Shaun (Laura) Weiss; daughter, Anita (Floyd) Mapstone; nine grandchildren; as well as nine great grandchildren. Marie was predeceased by her husband, Ronnie Weiss.
A private service will be held. 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
PETER BONOGOFSKI
PETER BONOGOFSKI 1926 ~ 2023 Peter Bonogofski of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Barbara Bonogofski, passed away on Friday, November 17th, 2023 at the age of 97 years. Peter leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Betty Ann Bugg and Ann (Larry) Flaig; grandchildren, Justin (Jackie) Bugg and Jennifer Bugg (Jamie Arnold); great-grandchildren, Heston, Holden, Reese, and Linden; and sister-in-law, Evelyn Kurtz. Peter was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; parents, Zach and Emilia Bonogofski; daughter, Patty Bonogofski; son-in-law, Terry Bugg; brothers, Greg and Adam Bonogofski; and sister, Frances Bosch. Peter was born and raised in the Prelate, SK area. He received his education at Baden Farm School. Peter and Barbara were married in 1951 and they began their life together. In 1952, they moved to Leader, rural municipality of Happyland and lived there for 14 years. In 1967, they moved to Medicine Hat where Peter was employed with McCoy High School for 22 years, retiring in June of 1991. After retiring, he enjoyed woodworking and fishing and the company of family and friends. Peter received so much happiness from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also looked forward to his daily newspaper and doing his “find a word.” He and Barbara were longtime members of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Parish. Peter’s family would like to thank Good Samaritans for their excellent care of Peter. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Monday, November 27th, 2023 from 11:30 am to 12:45 pm, prior to the Funeral Service. The Funeral Service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Monday, November 27th, 2023 at 1:00 pm with Father Roque Pereira, Celebrant. Memorial gifts in Peter’s memory may be made to the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, PO Box 460 STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9. Condolences may be sent through
http://www.saamis.com or to
condolences@saamis.com subject heading Peter Bonogofski. 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.
ADRIAAN KRIEL
ADRIAAN KRIEL 1936 – 2023 Adriaan Pieter Kriel (ll) of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Huibre Kriel and Father of Dr. Adriaan Kriel (lll), Dr. Madeleine Kriel, Huibre and Vic Wilkens and Anna-Mart and Donovan Scullard, passed away on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the age of 87 years. Adriaan was born in Paarl, South Africa in 1936, the eldest son of Adriaan Kriel (l) ‘s 3rd wife. He attended high school in the Strand before embarking on a degree in Agriculture at the University of Stellenbosch. He later went on to complete his Masters Degree in Pretoria, South Africa. He had a great love of the land and farmed for most of his life including grains, cattle, sheep, and dairy. He was well versed in English and Afrikaans and as such published multiple articles and at one point in his career was the editor of a newspaper. His implicit sense of humour got his point across while presenting the reader with a delightful reading experience. Teaching at an Agricultural College he was also the revered Coach of the Rugby Team and was like a father figure for all his players. After retirement he relocated to Canada where he spent his time spoiling his grandchildren and working on his acreage tending to his flock of sheep that he so loved. Adriaan was blessed with seven grandchildren – Victor, Huibre, Wilco, Jan, Phoebe, Adriaan (lV) and Jensen; Wessel van Rensburg was like another grandchild to him. To his delight he also was the proud Great Grandfather to five lovely children – Eike, Victor, Dustin, Alden Sky, Helia Maria, and Vaylen Arion. The funeral service will be held in the Christian Reformed Church (300 Primrose Drive SE) on Monday, November 27, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor George Koopmans officiating. Those who wish to remember Adriaan with a donation, may do so to the Christian Reform church. To leave a message of condolence you may visit
http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2
23
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