January 27, 2024
By Obituaries on January 27, 2024.
WILLIAM “BILL” MORRIS WAHL
WILLIAM “BILL” MORRIS WAHL
William Morris Wahl, age 76, of Medicine Hat, Alberta (and Edmonton) passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at the University Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. In the company of his family; Bill’s last days were spent reminiscing, listening to music, watching ‘The Jubilee Wahltz’ concert and in true Bill fashion, conducting along the way. Beth was by his side. He was not in pain or discomfort.
Bill was born on November 14, 1947 to Karl and Bernice Wahl in Barrhead, Alberta. Along with his older brother John and younger brother Ken, they moved to Drayton Valley, and eventually to Medicine Hat, where Bill graduated from MHHS in 1966. He went on to study at the University of Alberta in the MELAB (Music Education Laboratory) program. In future years he also obtained his Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Oregon, and later a Diploma of Fine Arts in Advanced Wind Band Conducting from the University of Calgary.
While at the University of Alberta, Bill met his life partner, Beth, in 1969. They moved to Medicine Hat for teaching positions and were married there in 1970. They established roots there, built their beloved log home down by the river and welcomed daughters Danielle, Nicole and Monique. Life was good and the log house was full of love and laughter.
Throughout the years, their family grew, and they welcomed sons-in-law Blair (M), Chad (N), and Mark (D), and grandchildren Bryant (Alison), Alexander, Oliver, and Molly. Bill treasured spending time with them all and nothing would make him happier than to help out with a diy project, or to get down on the floor with one of the grandkids to “wrastle” or scat a tune together.
Bill was the Band Teacher at Crescent Heights High School from 1970 to 2003 and taught thousands of students in grades 7 through 12 throughout his career, taking bands on 7 European tours (and one major trip to Toronto). The high school band also traveled extensively throughout Canada to various music festivals. In 1982, he and a group of other brass players started the Medicine Hat Brass Guild which then became the Medicine Hat Concert Band. In 2003, Bill added a beginner band for adults to the MHCB. For 40 years he was their creative director and conductor. He was committed to finding quality music for the ensembles to play and spearheaded the commissioning of two pieces of music, ‘Canadian Rhapsody’ by Elliot del Borgo and ‘Drums of the Saamis’ by Samuel Hazo. Overall, a 50+ year career that culminated in ‘The Jubilee Wahltz’ concert and celebration that was held in May of 2022.
Over his years as a band teacher and conductor he humbly received much recognition for his contributions including: Excellence in Teaching Award twice (MHSD 76); nominated twice for Outstanding Teacher through Alberta Learning; Elkhorn Band Director of the Year Award, Vondis Miller Legacy Award, Lifetime Membership (Alberta Band Association); David Peterkin Award for Outstanding Service to Band Music (Phi Beta Mu); Paul Harris Fellowship (Rotary Foundation of Rotary International); Community Spirit Award of Achievement in Arts/Culture (City of Medicine Hat); AMEF Recognition Award (Alberta Music Education Foundation). He was most recently awarded the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal for his significant contributions to Alberta.
Away from the baton, Bill was an avid cyclist; gardener; grape, garlic and hosta grower; wine, butter crunch, raspberry jam, and beer maker; furniture builder and refinisher; handy person; car collector; pool, darts, horseshoe and crib player; and typically didn’t sit still unless it was to catch a quick nap on the couch. He was also very passionate about making his community safer after the flood of 2013.
He was a deeply spiritual person, and an active participant in the Anglican Church most of his life. The Wahl family spent holidays at Sorrento Centre almost every year for 25 years where Bill, ever curious, stretched his beliefs around what it meant to be a Christian, a parent, a teacher, a musician, and a human. He was very active in the Wahl family’s local church and took on many roles from janitor, to music leader, to warden, to sitting on the parish council. His spirituality was important to him to the very end; every night he prayed for the health and wellbeing of loved ones and himself.
We will remember him for so many reasons, but most of all for being a kind, welcoming, encouraging person, who was available to listen, quick to laugh, and always up for a hug. He was always full of ideas and creativity, always thinking of ways to help make things better in our world and to be better himself. He was skilled and worked very hard, not only at his pursuits and goals, but also to provide a loving environment in his home, and to make everyone who entered his orbit feel deserving of their place in this world.
A Celebration of Bill’s life will be held in Medicine Hat on Saturday, March 30th at 1pm at the Cypress Centre. For those who are not able to attend, there will be a livestream. Information on this will be shared closer to the date at http://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/southside/obituaries.html. Messages of condolence can also be shared there.
ALLAN ILLSON
ALLAN ILLSON May 16, 1949 ~ January 7, 2024
It is with a broken heart that Helen Loretta Illson must announce the passing of her loving husband Allan Arthur Illson. He peacefully passed away at his home in Medicine Hat on Sunday January 7, 2024, at the age of 74 years. Allan was born in Thunder Bay (Fort William), Ontario on May 16, 1949.
He will be deeply missed by Helen, his loving wife of 18 years; his son, Paul (Merina) Illson; his daughter, Lisa (Derek) Thompson as well as his step-daughters, Tina Sever and Gayla Rose. He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren, Stephan, Michael (Miki), Brandon, Kynesha, Adyn, Teal (Kylar), Vienna and Murice; his brother, Arthur Illson (Cindy) and many nieces and nephews.
Allan was predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Mia Illson; brothers, Norman, Ronny and Ricky Illson and by his first wife, Helen Harriet Illson.
Allan loved the outdoors and cherished his unique and varied life of work and travel forming lasting friendships wherever he landed. He therefore has close ties to Kakabeka Falls, ON, Yellowknife, NWT, St. Albert, AB, Campbell River, BC, Calgary, AB and finally the place he and Helen called home in Medicine Hat, AB.
He and Helen spent the winters of 2013 to 2016 in Yuma, Arizona.
No matter where he traveled, Allan would have a furry friend to keep him company too. He truly loved his dogs that he had through the years: Buttons, Rusty, Stash and Emily; always kept him smiling.
Making close friends from the Canada/US border to beyond the US/Mexico border was one of Allan’s dreams. He was happy he could say “I did it”. He also made many friends in the RV industry as a mechanic and a salesman for over 45 years having worked at all three RV locations in Medicine Hat as well as several locations in Calgary.
Allan’s treasured life was enhanced by his baptism as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1974. His deep and lasting faith fine tuned his strong moral character and his cheerful spirit of endurance.
The memorial service honouring Allan’s life will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 62 Vallleyview Drive S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. (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”
JUNE DONST
JUNE DONST June 23, 1937 ~ January 23, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret ‘June’ Donst at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on January 23, 2024, after losing her battle with cancer at the age of 86 years. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years of marriage, Allen Donst. June was born the third of five children to Philip and Katherine (Ginther) Mutschler in Maple Creek, SK. In her early youth, she lived in Fox Valley, SK, moving to Medicine Hat with her family in her teenage years.
Her marriage with Allen was based strongly on their shared faith in God and Jesus as their Savior, and the strength and kindness she demonstrated in her life was a living example of her love for Christ. Their motto was “Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all other things will be added unto you.”
June worked for MHSD #76 for 27 years as a library secretary, retiring in 1996. Allen, June, and their family enjoyed many holidays together, including Hawaii, Bermuda, and many family camping trips in Kelowna and the Fairmont Hot Springs. In 2006, June traveled to Israel with her church group. On the homestead farm south of Leader, SK., their summers were spent enjoying seeding and harvesting. These seasons were interspersed with many fun moments enjoying nice fresh vegetables, wiener roasts, and family gatherings which were enjoyed by all.
Along with Allen, June is survived by her children, Ray (M’Liss), Nancy (Ray †), Jim (Janine), Kate, and her step-son, Colin (Katherine); her grandchildren, Bruce, Brady, Jesse (Travis), Rachel (Isaiah), Adam †, Jennie, Joel, Jaala (Shawn), Maggie (Jonathon), Grace, Hannah, Brandon (Alyssa), and Lucas (Kelly) as well as her great-grandchildren, Ethan, Amy, Mia, and Michael. June is also survived by her sister, Doris Franko; brother, Jim (Delores) Mutschler; aunt Anne Janke as well as many nieces, nephews, close relatives, and friends whom she loved dearly. June will also be remembered by her sisters-in-law, Myrtle Neufeld and Joyce Donst. She was predeceased by her parents, Philip and Katie Mutschler; sisters and brothers-in-law; Irma (Fernie) Glass, Lorraine (Rudy) Jackle, and Walt Franko as well as Allen’s parents, Gustav and Elfreida Donst and his siblings, Aurelia (Walter) Wenzel, Clarence Donst, Norma (Don) Fuchs, Dave Neufeld, and Margaret (Peter) Witt.
Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Sunday, January 28, 2024, between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Please join June’s family in celebrating her life which will be held at Victory Lutheran Church, 2793 Southview Drive S.E., Medicine Hat on Monday, January 29, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Roland Weisbrot officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the service via livestream may do so by visiting the following link: https://victorylutheran.ca/livestream/
June’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice and the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for the wonderful care given to June in her final days. It meant more than words can express. Those who would like to make charitable donations in her memory can forward them to the Canadian Lutheran World Relief, 400-185 Carlton Street, Winnipeg, MB., R3C 3J1 or to St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice, 156 – 3 Street N.E., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 5M1. (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”
JIM DAVIES
JIM DAVIES Dec. 14, 1942 ~ Jan. 25, 2024 James Edward Arnold Davies, beloved husband of the late Joan Davies, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Medicine Hat on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the age of 81 years. Left to cherish his memory are his children, William (Sandra), Doug (Crystal), Mike (Kim), Tanya (Cecil), Darcy (Jenny) and Dana (Jim); sister, Bev (Ron) as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Dignified cremation has taken place. Jim’s life will be remembered without the proceedings of a formal funeral service. (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”
JUSTIN GOODHAND
JUSTIN GOODHAND 1987 ~ 2024 Justin John Goodhand, son of John and Mabel and loving father to Johnathan and Bentley, passed away suddenly in Sundre, Alberta on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the age of 36 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced upon completion. (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”
LEONARD “LEN” FLECKENSTEIN
LEONARD “LEN” FLECKENSTEIN 1951 – 2024
It is with heavy hearts we announce that Leonard (Len) Fleckenstein passed away on January 15, 2024. Len was a loving, caring, and thoughtful son, husband, dad, and grandpa. Len, the son of John and Maggie Fleckenstein and brother to Marlene (Barry) Knodel, was born and raised in Medicine Hat where he met his loving wife, Gaye. They had two sons, Benjamin (Jen) and Kristopher (Briana); three grandchildren, Hailey, Madison, and Ziggy; and two grandpuppies. He was originally employed by the Department of Highways and then went on to work for Volker Stevin until he retired in August 2012. Many may remember him from his interests in sports – fishing at Lake Newell, slow pitch and hockey in Medicine Hat, as well as golfing, often at Redcliff or Picture Butte. Len was predeceased by his parents and numerous aunts and uncles. A Service and Celebration of Len’s life will take place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Medicine Hat in April 2024. Although the gesture is appreciated, flowers are gratefully declined. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Leonard Fleckenstein. 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.
WENDIE MARGARET SPITZER
1945 ~ WENDIE MARGARET SPITZER ~ 2024 Wendie Spitzer, beloved wife of Larry Spitzer of Medicine Hat, and formerly of Calgary, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family and is now with her Lord and Savior. Wendie, an only child, was born November 17, 1945 to her now predeceased parents, Margaret and Jack Fellowes, of Winnipeg, Manitoba. She leaves behind her husband, Larry, of 55 plus years, along with previous 9 years of on and off dating, as well as her beloved daughter, Shayleen Spitzer (Jamie Jenkins), of Lloydminster Alberta; and son, Tate (Helen) Spitzer, of Calgary, Alberta. Her children blessed her with four grandchildren, Tylyn Spitzer (Sam Williams), Teegan Ottas (Akima McDonald), Ryan Spitzer and McKenna Ottas. Wendie is survived by brothers and sisters – in law, Milton Spitzer (Elaine) and Sharon Petrick (Rick). She is also survived by her stepsister, Penny (Louis) Hogan and Randy Smith (Riva Nelson); as well as numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly. She was predeceased by Godfred (Fred) Smith (Pa). Wendie’s education was completed in Winnipeg, Manitoba where she earned her Degree as an LPN Nurse. Prior to marriage, she was in the hospital ward of her dreams, pediatrics. Later in life, she earned a degree from Mount Royal College Calgary, as an Interior Designer. Her many talents include designing, collecting miniatures, painting, sculpting, needle felting, along with bear making and numerous other hobbies that caught her eye. She was a fierce defender of her faith which she gained through the many visits to Medicine Hat to be with her predeceased grandparents, (Opa) Pastor George Senft and (Oma) Alma Senft. Wendie will be sadly missed by her beloved husband, Larry; children, grandchildren, and yet to be conceived and born great grandchildren. I would like to extend our gratitude to the great care Wendie received at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital by her nurses and doctors. A special thank you to Doctor Claassen, who provided constant support and care. In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church,758 8th Street SE, Medicine Hat, AB, or the Alberta Heart and Stoke, PO Box 460 STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9. Celebration of her Life will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 758 8th Street SE, Medicine Hat, AB on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 1:00 PM (Mountain Time) with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by joining the live webcast at youtube.com/@st.peterlutheranmedicineha at the above date and time. Lunch provided by the Ladies of St Peter in Grace Hall directly attached to the Church. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Wendie Spitzer. 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.
BEV SWAREN
BEV SWAREN 1941 ~ 2024
Beverly “Bev” Kenneth Swaren passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at the age of 82 years, beloved husband of Betty Swaren of Medicine Hat. He also leaves to cherish his memory two children, Darren (Velvet) Swaren and their sons, Mitchel, Sean (Alex) and Logan (Danielle); Kerry (Bonnie) Swaren and their sons Derian and Brandt. He was predeceased by one son Tyler and is survived by daughter-in-law Tarra and their children Rhett and Gabriel. He is also survived by one sister Marlene (Keith) Westwood and Garry (Pauline) Swaren. Besides his son Tyler, Bev was predeceased by his parents George and Annie Swaren; brothers, Arnold and Stuart and his sister Doris Rostaing. Bev was born on March 21, 1941, in Camrose, Alberta. He began his working career with the Alberta Government “Public Works” at the age of 16 and retired from Government employmnet at age 65. His hobbies included boxing, gardening, cats and playing cards. Over the years he received the “Golden Gloves” award in boxing several times. Bev served as Past President of Medicine Hat Minor Hockey and Past President with the Raymond Lions Club. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE with Life Celebrant David Townsend 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). 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
DALE HOLT
DALE HOLT 1969 ~ 2024
Dale Grant Holt passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at the age of 54 years, beloved husband of Denise Holt of Medicine Hat. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant Pat Grisonich 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). 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
20
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