January 3, 2025

By Obituaries on January 3, 2025.

JIM MACDONALD

JIM MACDONALD Feb. 25, 1951 ~ Dec. 28, 2024 Mr. James ‘Jim’ Albert MacDonald passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the age of 73 years. Left to cherish Jim’s memory are his brother, David MacDonald of Medicine Hat; nephews, Chris MacDonald of Medicine Hat, Justin (Tara) MacDonald and their son, Davis of Calgary and by his sister, Lynn Davey of Port Hardy, BC. He was predeceased by his parents, Keay and Harriet MacDonald and by his brother-in-law, Steve Davey. Jim served in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1969 – 1972 and worked for the City of Medicine Hat Gas Department for 35 years before retiring. Jim will be silently remembered by family and friends 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”

ANN RUCKABER BONOGOFSKI

ANN RUCKABER BONOGOFSKI Ann Ruckaber Bonogofski, age 93 of Fox Valley, passed away December 28th, 2024, at the Kindersley Hospital, Kindersley, SK. Ann was raised on the family farm near the Great Sand Hills. She was born September 14th, 1931 the 7th child of 10 siblings to John and Marie Ruckaber.She married Zack Bonogofski on January 1st, 1953. She worked as a nurse’s aide at the Prelate Hospital until they moved to Vesper, SK. There, she was the post mistress, which was in the entrance way of the house they lived in. In 1960 they moved to Fox Valley and made that home. Ann spent her last year at the Eatonia Oasis Living care home in Eatonia, Sask.She never had idle hands, always baking great and tasty things. She was a very talented quilter and made hundreds of hand-quilted baby blankets for Birthrite. She could crochet or knit anything and was also a super seamstress.Ann leaves to mourn her memory her children: Colleen (Colin) Schmaltz and their sons, Cory (Carlene), and Clayton (Pamela); Kelly (Laura) Bonogofski and their sons, Cary (J’Dee), and Cody (Jessica); her great-grandchildren: Tianna, Janay, Brooklyn, Shayla, Roen, Indy, Wren, Dawson, and Cassidy; her great-great-grandson, Archer; her brother, Clem Ruckaber; her sisters-in-law, Eleanor Ruckaber, Marge Bonogofsky, and Liz Sannes; her brothers-in-law, Greg Bonogofsky and Tony Heck. She is predeceased by her husband, Zack, and her son, Lesley, her parents, and numerous brothers and sisters. Mom, you will be missed, but we will hold the memories in our hearts.As per Mom’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Kindersley Community Funeral Home and Crematorium.In memory of Ann, donations may be made to Eatonia Oasis Living, Box 217, Eatonia, SK S0L 0Y0.

GLORIA VICTORIA BATTYANIE

GLORIA VICTORIA BATTYANIE Gloria Victoria Battyanie passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at the age of 74 years, with her daughter by her side. She was predeceased by her parents Arthur and Eva Riedlinger; son-in-law Stanley Bircham; and her grandchildren, Lucas and Shayleen. Left to survive are her daughter Jennifer Bircham and grandchildren, Ervin (Melyssa), Melissa (James), Cindy (Brian); son Shawn (Danielle) and grandchild Linkon; step grandchildren Dallas and Brady; daughter Lorelie Hutchinson (Kurtis) and grandchild Bauer; step-grandchildren, Brenden, Ashlyn, Ryland; as well as numerous sisters, brothers, cousins, uncles, and aunties. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the Funeral Service at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina, SK on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow in Elizabeth Church Cemetery (Lestock District) at approximately 3:30 p.m. Flowers most gratefully declined. Donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Saskatchewan Chapter, 1545 C McAra Street, Regina, SK S4N 6H4 or R.G.H. Hemodialysis Unit, 1440-14th Avenue, Regina, SK S4P 0W5. To leave an online message of condolence, or to view the livestream of the service please visit http://www.speersfuneralchapel.com

ESTHER LARSON

1937 – ESTHER LARSON – 2024
Esther Larson, cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 years on December 30m 2025 . She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Maxine Jans (Darwin); grandchildren, Charlene (Marco) and Monty (Gail); great-grandson Jayden; step-grandson Logen; her sister, Lillian Schreiber; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, Jim Larson; sons, Wade and Doug; her later-in-life companion, Russ Baugh; brother, Otto Kreil; sister, Irene Lutz; and parents, Katherine and Emanuel Kreil. Known for her strength and resilience, Esther faced life’s challenges with unwavering determination and grace. Her warmth, compassion, and sharp wit touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. Born and raised in the New Home district, Esther grew up as a homesteader, immersed in the rugged beauty of ranch life. She often reminisced about traveling to visit cousins, where music and dancing brought laughter and joy. After marrying, she spent most of her life on the Larson Cattle Company homestead near Manyberries, raising her family and embracing the rhythms of ranching life. Later, she moved to Lethbridge, where she lived for many years. Esther found endless joy in her garden, where she lovingly tended both flowers and vegetables. Her garden was a place of beauty and abundance, reflecting her deep connection to nature and her family. She spent countless hours planting, weeding, and harvesting, often sharing the fruits of her labor through her delicious cooking and canning. Esther also loved reading, puzzles, a good game of cards, and cheering on her favorite curling and baseball teams. A lifelong rodeo enthusiast and a devoted member of the Manyberries Community Club, Esther proudly sponsored the Manyberries Rodeo for many years and was steadfast pillar of her community. In her final years, Esther was cared for by the dedicated staff at South Country Village in Medicine Hat. She cherished visits from her loved ones and treasured occasional trips back to the ranch that always held a special place in her heart. Esther’s legacy of love, determination, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The family will hold a private ceremony to honour her life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in honor of Esther. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Esther Larson. Funeral arrangements are entrusted

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.

DAVID MACLEAN

DAVID MACLEAN 1933 – 2024 David John MacLean passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the age of 91 years, beloved husband of Anne MacLean of Medicine Hat. He also leaves to cherish his memory seven children David MacLean, Doug MacLean, Hugh (Kim) MacLean, Rob MacLean (Kerry Wing), Mike MacLean, Catherine (Vaughn) Usher, Burke (Louise Dawson-MacLean) MacLean; thirteen grandchildren and one sister Susan (Mike) Carey. He was predeceased by his parents Rachel and Ronald MacLean, one daughter Mary Jo MacLean, a daughter-in-law Monica Wade, one brother Ron MacLean and one sister Mona Mahoney. Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church (238 – 2nd Avenue N.E.) Friday, January 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Roque Pereira celebrant. The funeral prayers and mass will be live streamed. Please visit David’s obituary page on our website for the link. 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

HENRY FUNK

HENRY FUNK 1938 – 2024 Henry Dick Funk of Medicine Hat, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 86 years. He leaves to cherish his two children Brad (Lorelyn) and Greg (Lacey); his partner Carol Green all of Medicine Hat, four grandchildren Sean (Michalei) Funk, Kyle (Brittany) Funk, Tara Funk and Ryan Funk; five great grandchildren Nathan, Eden, Mitchell, Kamden and Brynn; one brother John (Joan) Funk; two sisters Betty Funk (Louise Oppel) and Mary (Ken) Peters as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife Leona, second wife Annette and his parents Elizabeth and Henry Funk. Henry was born on June 16, 1938, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. He moved with his family to BC, first to Oliver and then Abbotsford. Continuing his education he enrolled at college, in the carpentry program. In 1961, he married Leona and they had their two sons. As a family, in 1973, they made the move to Kelowna. Henry worked hard as a home builder and land developer. He had a zest for waterskiing and teaching others how to enjoy the sport. He travelled to Europe, Mexico, Hawaii and across Canada. Leona passed away in 1984 from cancer. He later met and married Annette and together, in 1996, they moved to Medicine Hat. Unfortunately in 2011, Henry lost Annette to Cancer. He then met Carol and they enjoyed their golden years together. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects may do so at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME on Friday, January 3rd from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held in HILLCREST EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH (3785 13th Ave SE) on tlineSaturday, January 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Steve Pahl officiating. You are invited to join the service virtually at http://www.hillcrestchurch.net/funerals. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. 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

JANIS VRABEC

JANIS VRABEC 1937 ~ 2024
It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Janis Vrabec, a cherished mother, dedicated teacher, and avid traveler, who left us on December 25th, 2024.
Janis was born on August 28th, 1937, and spent her life enriching the minds and hearts of those around her. As an educator, she inspired countless students with her passion for knowledge and her unwavering commitment to their growth. Her classroom was not just a place of learning but a haven of encouragement and creativity, where every child felt seen, heard, and valued.
Beyond her professional life, Janis had a zest for life. She loved to travel and embarked on many trips and RV adventures. These trips provided vibrant stories and cherished memories. She also was an avid reader and always had a good novel nearby.
At home, Janis was a pillar of love and strength. She nurtured her children with boundless affection and guided them with wisdom and grace. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, who will forever cherish the lessons she imparted and the love she so generously gave.
Janis’s husband Mike, daughter Lisa and sister Pat predeceased her. She is survived by her loving children, Gregory (Jodi) and Victoria (Rob), her sister Wendy (Rodney), brother Bill (Darlene) and grandchildren Curtis (Kara), Erica, Alison (Michael), Michael, and Kalli (Chris, her great grandchild, Jack.
She enjoyed the companionship of her partner James Pederson over the last 30 years, which included travels and extended family and friends, all of whom will miss her dearly.
A private family graveside service will be held on January 6th, 2025, at Hillside cemetery.
The family plans a celebration of her extraordinary life for this coming summer. Her family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital team.
A heartfelt thanks to Dr Ciubotaru and the hospice care team of St Joseph’s Home for making her final days so comfortable and peaceful.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St Joseph’s home and hospice care or the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital foundation. To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com

LARRY WEISS

LARRY WEISS 1944 – 2024 Larry Clifford Weiss of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Linda Weiss, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the age of 80 years. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects may do so at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME on Sunday, January 5 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held in PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. with Life Celebrant David Townsend officiating. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Larry’s obituary page on our website for the link. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. 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

RUSSEL GORDON JOHNSON LOVEJOY

LOVEJOY, RUSSEL GORDON JOHNSON was born in Winnipeg on March 16, 1927 and passed away in Medicine Hat Alberta on the 27th day of December, 2024, at the age of 97. Russ spelled his name with two “L’s” despite his birth certificate showing only one.
Russ was predeceased by second wife, Nancy (Washer/Smith) in March, 2023 and his first wife, Glenna Ruth (Sargent) in October, 2001.
Predeceased by his parents Cyril Leslie (1966) and Doris (nee Johnson) Lovejoy in 1970, his brother Doug (Betty) and sisters Doris Hadley (Ernie), Bernice Darragh (Lloyd), Thelma Byron (Buzz), Leslie Fraser (Lloyd) and Joan Spencer. Russell is survived by one sister, Sheila (Joe) Klish of Winnipeg.
Russ worked many jobs within the CN/CP telecommunications company traveling throughout Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Yukon and BC, and had many stories about his route along the Alaska Highway. In the 40+ years he worked for CNCP, starting as an errand boy, he moved through the ranks to be operations manager prior to retirement in 1985. Russ married Glenna Ruth Sargent on October 4, 1952 and they raised one son, Stephen.
Russ enjoyed traveling for work, but wound up back in Winnipeg as Glenna preferred that. A huge Winnipeg Jets fan, avid fisherman, golfer, and walker who loved to garden and cook, he enjoyed his daily happy hour of Grant’s Blended Scotch Whiskey. Russ loved a good game of Scrabble, and rarely lost. He retired in 1985 while living on an acreage near Beausejour, Manitoba; moving from there to Morden, Manitoba where they lived for six years. Russ was active in St Thomas Anglican Church. From there Russell and Glenna moved to Medicine Hat, Alberta in the early 1990’s.
After Glenna’s passing, Russ met Nancy in June, 2002 and they married in May, 2003. They shared a love of dancing, golf and travel having taken three cruises, and several trips across Europe plus several visits to Cuba. They were very active members of the Hillcrest Church in Medicine Hat. He and Nancy spent much time out of doors walking the many trails around Medicine Hat, especially the coulees.
He leaves to cherish his memory one son; Stephen (Ruth). Russ will be deeply missed by his sister Sheila (Joe) Klish of Winnipeg as well as many friends and extended family members including Joyce and Gerry Purdy of Winnipeg and Richard and Norma Frost of Calgary, Alberta.
As requested, cremation has taken place. Interment will take place at Prairie View Cemetery, 5160 Gershaw Dr SW in Medicine Hat in the spring of 2025.
In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Medicine Hat SPCA.

PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

LESLIE “LES” JAMES PEARSON

LESLIE “LES” JAMES PEARSON passed away on December 26, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Hospice at the age of 78 years, beloved husband of Colleen Pearson of Medicine Hat . He also leaves to cherish his memory three step children, Angelique Thomson of Cape Town, South Africa, Rory Trustham (Treena) of Edmonton, and Colin Jordan of Edmonton; two step grandchildren, Abigail and Jeremy Trustham, Aria and Sienna Jordan; one sister, Shirley Twietmeyer (Jack); his nieces, Tina Twietmeyer (Stephen Duke), Lara Guzik (Aaron Runge) and their son Nash; nephew Jan Guzik. He was predeceased by his parents James and Margaret Pearson; his first wife Louise (Beaudin) Pearson; his adopted son Christopher and sister in-law and brother in-law Collette and Ted Guzik .
Les was born March 27, 1946, in Regina, Saskatchewan to Maragaret and James Pearson. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Carnduff, Saskatchewan. This is where Les was raised and educated, excelling in academics, sports, drama, music and oratory. After high school graduation he continued his education at the University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon), University of Saskatchewan (Regina) and the University of Alberta (Edmonton) moving him into his role of teacher and principal. Les taught in many schools over the years, ending his career as the founding principal of the Eagle Butte High School. This appointment also facilitated the move to Medicine Hat in 1996, where Les became very involved with church, many and varied community organizations and local government. Some of his most notable achievements include being the first inclusion co-ordinator to improve services to people with disabilities, being the driving force behind achieving hospice care at St. Joseph’s Home and being a founding member of the Folk Music Club (Tongue on the Post). Les served as a Medicine Hat city Alderman from 2010 to 2017, representing council on various boards and committees including the Shortgrass Library System, Medicine Hat Public Library, Medicine Hat Community Housing Society, Tourism Medicine Hat, Heritage Resources Committee and Regional Drainage Committee. He served on the Palliser “Friends of Medicare” board and was on the local and national board of Covenant Health. He was a great believer in the potential of Medicine Hat, and its College, where he was the founder of the chaplaincy program. Les was a well-known friend and advocate of the Indigenous people, taking part in many events. Throughout his teaching career, Les inspired many generations of students as an English teacher and principal. He has left a legacy of kindness, humour, and vision for this city and for everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. Sincere appreciation to all for the many messages of condolence and for the tributes given to Les. Thank you also to the wonderful staff of St. Joseph’s Home for the kind and compassionate care that Les and our family received. The funeral service will be held in VICTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH (2793 Southview Drive SE) on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Roland Weisbrot officiating. The service will be live streamed. Please visit Les’ obituary page on our website for the link. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. 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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