December 16, 2023

By Obituaries on December 16, 2023.

JODY OFFEN

JODY OFFEN November 12, 1969 ~ December 10, 2023
Jody James Offen, loved and cherished husband and father, passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the age of 54 years. It is with immense sadness, but an abundance of cherished memories that we say goodbye.
Jody was born into this world on November 12, 1969, in North Battleford, SK. to proud parents, Tom and Darlene Offen and siblings, Ken, Darin, and Gigi. The family moved to Saskatoon, SK. in 1971, and to Coronach, SK. in 1975, before settling in Assiniboia, SK. in 1977. This community is where Jody would grow up, attend school, make fantastic life-long friends and create memories before graduating in 1988 from Assiniboia Composite High School. This same community would show generous support for Jody and his family during his challenges with ALS.
In their senior year, Jody and Penny began dating, a relationship that would continue for over 35 years with love.
In the years after graduation, Jody worked at a number of different occupations before creating Performance Paving Ltd. with Kenneth Mayes in Regina, SK., moving later to Brandon, Manitoba in 1995. It was while in Manitoba that Jody and Penny were blessed with two amazing children, Thomas James in 1998, and Chelsey Ann in 2001. Shortly after Chelsey’s birth, Jody and Penny moved with the children to Medicine Hat. Jody continued in the Paving industry with Transit Paving before moving on to Oil and Gas, finally working for S&T Swabbing.
Jody was always interested in sports – playing baseball, curling, occasionally bowling, and football in high school. He enjoyed watching CFL and NFL and rarely missed an Olympic event or a televised curling match. He also had a strong love of golf, playing through the years, and he really enjoyed camping and hiking.
Jody was known for his love of music. Whether discovering new music, listening to favorite songs, attending concerts or playing guitar and singing, music was a part of Jody’s life.
Although sadness and heartbreak overwhelm us, we take comfort that his physical battles and challenges with cancer and ALS are over, and he is free.
Jody was predeceased by his parents, Tom and Darlene; brother, Ken; brother-in-law, Wayne and mother-in-law, Bride. Jody leaves the care of his memories to his wife, Penny; son, Thomas and daughter, Chelsey; sister, Gigi and brother, Darin; sister-in-law, Peggy; brother-in-law, Jesse; father-in-law, Roland (Terry); loving nieces, Kacie, Tionna, Hayden, Natasha and Natasha’s children, Raine, Jasper, and Lennox as well as many dear friends.
Jody was a big personality with a generous smile and easy laugh. He will be missed fiercely! Donations in Jody’s name may be made to St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice, 156 – 3 Street N.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1. A Celebration honouring Jody’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”

BARBARA FINSTAD

BARBARA FINSTAD February 6, 1938 ~ December 10, 2023
We, the family of Barbara Marie Finstad (nee Syverson) announce the passing of a remarkable wife, mother and grandmother on Sunday, December 10, 2023, in Medicine Hat. Barbara was a kind and happy person. She touched people with her generous giving ways along with her quick wit and sense of humour. She truly made the world a better place!
Barbara was born in Medicine Hat to Chester and Sylvia Syverson. The family moved to Rossland, B.C. where she grew up along with her older brother, Wayne (Linda) Syverson. She attended the University of Calgary to pursue a teaching degree. Barb’s teaching career took her to Calgary, Edmonton and Medicine Hat. She decided to try teaching in the rural communities of Etzikom and Burdett and this is where she met and married Norman Finstad. She dedicated the rest of her life to the family ranch, raising her children and being involved within the community. Barbara enjoyed the “little things” in life; a hot, black cup of coffee, crosswords from the newspaper, a good game of crib, a walk down the road to look at the Sweet Grass Hills and caring for her dog and cats. Barbara was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and sadly this year, we will miss her lefsa and krumkakers at Christmas. She took a keen interest in each of her grandsons lives; always asking how school was going and what activities they had been up to.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 56 years, Norman; daughter, Lisa (Nevin) Heidinger and son, Steven (Michele) Finstad as well as her four cherished grandsons, Thane (Sydni) and Ethan Heidinger and Aden and Owen Finstad. Her family was always the most important part of her life. As a family, our hearts are broken but she left us with wonderful memories that we will hold onto dearly. She wil be missed and never forgotten. 2 Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
A private celebration of her life will take place in the summer of 2024. (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”

Mook

MOOK It is with great sadness and gentle peace that the family of the CHESTER JOHN MOOK, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Sharon Mook and father of Tiffany Fraser and Camille Rose, announce his passing at Cedar Creek Adaptacare, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at the age of 79 years.
A Celebration of Chester’s Life will be held at the SANDMAN SIGNATURE LETHBRIDGE LODGE, 320 Scenic Drive S, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Glenda Wert officiating. The Celebration of Life will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Chester’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (cancer.ca), Lethbridge & District Humane Society (lethbridgehumanesociety.com) or Lethbridge Symphony (lethbridgesymphony.org)
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

RICHARD FERDINAND JOSEPH LAMBERT

RICHARD FERDINAND JOSEPH LAMBERT Mar 13th, 1952 December 13th, 2023 Richard Lambert passed away on December 13th, 2023, at the age of 71 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Rose Lambert; daughter, Nicki (Brandon) Falk; sisters, Therese (Raymond) Lambert, Yvonne Covey and Denise Lambert; grand dogs, Tucker and Enzo; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his parents, Jules and Cecile Lambert and sister, Linda Klatt.
Richard was born in Estevan, SK and raised in Swift Current, SK. Richard was a truck driver for most of his life as he loved being on the open road. He also loved going to drag races, an early morning fishing trip and a good Tiger’s game as long as he had a Tim Hortons coffee in hand. The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital as well as Richard’s home care nurse, Martina, for all their care and support.
A Come & Go gathering will take place on Sunday, December 17th, 2023, at Hampton Inn (2510 Box Springs Blvd NW) from 1:00pm 4:00pm. Donations in Richard’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s 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

DARYL ROBERT REESOR

DARYL ROBERT REESOR June 8th, 1949 December 13th, 2023 With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Daryl (Derry) beloved husband & soulmate of Jane on December 13, 2023, at the age of 74. He leaves to cherish in his memory his brothers, Dave (Meritha) and Dick (Cathy); his children, Tracey (Barry) Noga and their children, Taylor (Trent), Travis (Erica) & Tomara (Tanner); Brad (Becky) McKelvey and their daughter, Brooklynne; Kristy Reesor her children, Cypress & Linken; daughter in law, Katherine and her son, Colton; Jane’s siblings, June Catton, John (Pat) Catton, Lorne (Sue) Catton, Lyle Catton and sister in law, Dianne Catton. Derry was a loving and devoted great grandfather to seven great grandkids who absolutely adored him. Derry was predeceased by his parents, Joe & Marion Reesor, his sons, Tyson & Vance Reesor along with his in-laws, Elmer, Doris (Tuff) and brothers in law, Kenny & Jamie Catton.
A private family service will be held, but friends and family are invited to Derry’s favourite restaurant, the Silver Buckle on Sunday, December 17th, 2023, at 2 PM to have a beer and share memories of Derry. 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

KEN EMPEY

KEN EMPEY 1935 ~ 2023 Ken Empey of Medicine Hat passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the age of 88 years. Along with Bev, his beloved wife of over 70 years, Ken leaves to cherish his memory: son, Randy (Lori); daughter-in-law, Helen; grandchildren, Jolaine (James), Matthew (Aimee), Danielle (Garrett), Kurt, Ashley (Mark); great-grandchildren, Noah, Ellie and Lauren; siblings, Doug and Gloria as well as Bev’s family: sister, Donna and her children, Tracy and Jay. Ken was predeceased by his parents, Ingrid and Leonard; brother, Walter and sister, Mildred as well as two sons, Wayne and Terry. Ken’s life will be honoured and his memory cherished without the proceedings of a formal funeral. Please take the time to remember the Ken you knew in your own special way. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation or to the Alzheimer’s Society. (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”

JENAE LIBOIRON

1991 ~ JENAE LIBOIRON ~ 2023 Jenae Nicole Judith Liboiron of Redcliff, passed away on Sunday, December 3rd, 2023 at the age of 32 years. The Memorial Service was held yesterday at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, MEDICINE HAT, AB T1B 4V3. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Jenae Liboiron. 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.

JOSEPH STENGER

1930 ~ JOSEPH STENGER ~ 2023
Joseph (Joe) Stenger passed away peacefully with his family on Saturday, December 9, 2023 while in palliative care at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. He leaves to cherish his memory his sons, Lyle Stenger (Yvonne), Thomas Stenger (Kim), Clifford Stenger (Jennifer Cote), and Brad Stenger (Cheryl); daughter-in-law, Cindy Stenger; siblings, Velma Impey (Tom) and Mary Dell; thirteen grandchildren; and eighteen great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Cornelius (Nellie) Stenger; first wife Mary Brown, second wife Mildred Stenger (Rommel), and third wife Violet Stenger (Otto); sons, Leonard Stenger and Neal Stenger; brother, Alec Stenger; sister, Agnus Solverson; brothers-in-law, Hubert Solverson and Walter Dell; and sister-in-law, Peggy Stenger. Joseph was born to Joseph and Cornelius Stenger in the hospital at Empress, Alberta on July 24, 1930. He was the second oldest of five children. He attended school to Grade nine at the Wainfleet country school located four miles south of their homestead farm. He told stories of driving his sisters to school with a horse and cutter in the winter (with hot rocks and blankets in the bottom of the cutter to keep his sisters warm) and a horse and wagon in the summer. In 1945, when he was fifteen years old, Joe went to Medicine Hat where he purchased a violin from Levinson’s for $15.00. He learned to play the violin on his own “by ear” and played at country dances with his brother Alec on the banjo and their friend Joe Dirk on the accordion. He was an excellent dancer and loved to dance. Joe and his brother Alec farmed with horses on the original homestead farm located northeast of Empress, Alberta. They were very excited when they purchased a Fordson tractor which was “very small” by today’s standards. Joe continued to farm by himself when his brother Alec joined the Canadian Navy. Joe eventually purchased the homestead farm from his Mom. Later he purchased the Dosch farm located eight miles north of Empress across the border in Alberta, sold the old homestead farm, and eventually purchased two more adjacent farms in Alberta. He was a hard worker and a successful farmer. The younger farmers in the area frequently asked him for farming advice. He married Mary Kibel in 1952 and they had a family of six sons over the next eleven years. Two of their houses on the homestead farm were destroyed by fires in 1962 and in 1964. Joe and Mary divorced in 1971. He married Mildred Rommel in 1978. They lived together on the farm until 1997 when he sold the farm to his son Leonard. Joe and Mildred retired in Medicine Hat where they lived in the Southridge and Cotton Wood areas. They went on several Wheat Pool bus trips to the USA with other farmers. They moved to Chinook Village when Mildred’s health declined. Joe continued to live at Chinook Village following Mildred’s passing in 2015. He met Violet Otto at Chinook Village. They were married in 2016 and lived together at Chinook Village until Violet’s passing in 2022. Joe moved into assisted living at Chinook Village in 2022 and lived there until his health declined. He moved to Age Care Riverview in 2023 where he lived until his passing. Our Dad was a wonderful, hardworking, honest, kind man who had a ready smile and loved his family. We want to send a special thank you to the healthcare staff at Chinook Village, the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, Age Care Riverview, and to Dr. Ockert Kruger. They all showed so much care, concern, and compassion for Dad. A funeral service for Joe will be held in the spring of 2024 and will be announced in the Medicine Hat News. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Joseph Stenger. 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.

BRAD LIEN

Dr. Bradley Curtis Lien passed away at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary on December 8, 2023 at 65 years of age. He leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Lois Lien, his children Chelsey (Jase) Cowan and Jordan Lien, his grandchildren Ari, Avi and Remi Cowan, his brothers Rod (Barb) Lien, Chris Lien and Kent (LeAnne) Lien, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents Dennis Lien and Annette (Zeller) Lien. Brad was born April 11, 1958 in Cabri, Saskatchewan and grew up in Swift Current until the family moved to Medicine Hat in the early 70’s.

During his youth Brad enjoyed playing sports of all kinds, with a particular love for hockey and watching his beloved Oilers. In school Brad excelled in sports, English and had a knack for creating mischief. During grade 11 a beautiful girl named Lois caught his eye, and Brad eventually married his high school sweetheart in 1979. Brad became a father to Chelsey and Jordan in his early 20’s and wanted to be the best dad possible. Coming from humble beginnings, Brad was determined to seek more opportunities for himself and his family. After spending three years in ministry in the Nazarene church, Brad made the first of several big career changes in his life. He put his keen mind to work studying sciences at Medicine Hat College and was subsequently accepted to the dentistry program at the University of Alberta. Upon graduating in 1989, Brad established his practice at Crestwood Dental Clinic where he built lifelong friendships with colleagues and patients. In line with his generous nature, Brad would often provide free dental care for those who could not afford it.

Unfortunately Brad’s career in dentistry was cut short due to heart problems that were detected during his time in dental school, and this eventually led to another life change. During this transition time he helped to develop competency legislation for dentistry in Alberta, worked as a mediator for the Alberta Dental Association, and finally settled into a long term career as an insurance advisor. Brad thrived in this setting and he provided wise advice to numerous families and young medical/dental professionals.

Over the years Brad fought through four open heart surgeries and many ups and downs, eventually being placed on the heart transplant list in 2023. Unfortunately, a donor heart was not available in time and Brad’s heart could no longer sustain him after years of gradual decline.

Despite struggling with heart problems for most of his life, Brad was known for his big heart. He was well-known in the community for his warm smile, generosity and encouraging words. He could start a conversation with anyone and he made friends everywhere he went. He loved to golf, go for country drives in his convertible, and attend Tigers games. Ultimately nothing brought more joy than watching or participating in his grandchildren’s activities and family gatherings of any kind.

Brad had a strong faith that could only be forged by struggling with suffering and doubt. He and God had many conversations along the side of country roads. He understood better than most that the future was not certain, and he faced it with courage and humour. Despite numerous setbacks he remained optimistic. He never stopped reading, doing crossword puzzles, appreciating nice vehicles, working on his golf game, or investing in the people around him, to whom he gave generously of his resources and time. His presence will be forever felt by his numerous friends, clients, and colleagues and especially by his family, who will miss him dearly.

In honour of Brad, please consider registering as an organ donor. It is free, easy and can change a life. See the Alberta Tissue and Organ Registry on myhealth.alberta.ca.

Brad will be remembered at Hillcrest Evangelical Missionary Church on Monday, December 18, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Steve Pahl officiating. The funeral service will be live streamed at hillcrestchurch.net then choose “watch” then “funerals” then “funeral livestream”. 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

GLEN BADER

Our hearts are broken to announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, brother, uncle, step-dad, cousin and friend, Glen Malcolm Bader, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at the age of 59 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother Elinore Bader; two brothers, Doug (Cheryl) Bader and Al (Judy) Bader and two sisters, Carol Connick (Mary-Ann Easton) and Jenn (Brad) Bailey; as well as extended family Justin Bader (Ashley, Thomas), Curtis Bader (Shelly), Bryce Connick, Colton Connick, Dan Ewacha (Kelly, Emma, Alex, Sidney) and Daniel Bailey. Glen was greatly loved by Destiny and Matthias St. Pierre, many cousins, and numerous friends. He was predeceased by his father Walter Bader, several aunts and uncles, and his Godparents, Mel and June Roth.
Glen was born in Medicine Hat, where he was also baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church. He attended Vincent Massey Elementary and Crescent Heights High School, being voted friendliest fellow of his grad class. His friendliness continued throughout his life. Glen was always ready to lend a hand. He worked mainly in the automotive industry, starting at Beny Motors, then Murray’s, as well as other occupations. He loved sports and the great outdoors. Like his dad, he was a Mr. Fix-it guy, and loved to repair almost anything. We will all miss him dearly.
The funeral service will be held in the St. Paul Lutheran Church (515 Sprague Way SE) on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Ken Edel officiating. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit pattisonfuneralhome.com and select live streaming, then select the YouTube (arrow). A private family interment will be held in the Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Lutheran Hour Ministries (cheques payable to the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada), 270 Lawrence Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2M 1Y4; (addressed envelopes are available at the service), the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation, or the charity of your choice. 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

VI CONTE

VI CONTE 1929 – 2023 Violet “Vi” Conte (Lehr) passed away on Wednesday December 13, 2023 at the age of 94 years, beloved wife of the late Spud Conte. She leaves to cherish her memory three children, Sandy Maier, Don (Terrie) Conte and Pam (Brian) Gardner; eight grandchildren, Shelly (Pete), Jeff, Dean (Aletta), Amanda (Josh), Mat (Alexis), Derek (Karla), Jennifer (Jared), and Clinton; twenty two great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Vi was predeceased by her parents Ed and Lydia Lehr; one son-in-law Fred Maier and one great granddaughter Lucia Karla Conte. Vi and Spud spent summers house boating or camping and enjoyed numerous bus trips and cruises, especially to the Panama Canal where they celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary with their children. Vi’s family wish to invite you to share in celebrating her life, first at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Friday, December 22, 2023 starting at 12 noon with a luncheon and fellowship, then proceed to the graveside service at Hillside Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. 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

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