January 18, 2025

By Obituaries on January 18, 2025.

DOLORES (LORI) BENNETT

DOLORES (LORI) BENNETT
Our Mom, Dolores (Lori) Bennett passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 85, following a debilitating stroke 10 days earlier.
Mom brought four children into the world: Garry (Kerry) Bennett, Laurie Lee (Donnie) Trandum, Susan (Paul) Evans and Tracey (Peter) Dennehy. As much as she loved her kids, she had even greater joy for her 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, with excitement for another in May.
Mom was eager to be with her beloved husband, Glen, who passed away nearly 50 years ago. Other loved ones awaiting a special reunion are her parents, Alex and Betty Ott, four siblings who died in infancy and her sister, Vi who passed away nearly two years ago. Her surviving sisters include Myrt van Wert and Jean McMackin, as well as brothers-in-law, Roger Bennett and Dob Wallace and many nieces and nephews.
Growing up in Medicine Hat, Mom lived a vibrant life, excelling in sports, designing and sewing her own clothes, and experiencing romance in the 1950s. As we grew up, we witnessed her dedication to family and hard work. Life on our little farm with Dad shifted Mom away from a city-girl to the activities of caring for farm animals, supporting Dad’s excavating business, and helping us develop our talents whether it was music, hockey or dance. She helped us cherish the joy of fostering strong bonds with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Mom’s faith was central to her life. She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a young mother and deepened her spiritual journey after Dad’s passing. She was committed to church service and excelled in genealogy, tracing her German-Russian roots back to the early 1700’s. In her 50s, she served two church missions, including 18 months in Austria. The latter experience brought back the German she spoke as a child and riding a bike once again in a skirt.
Mom lived in Lethbridge for 12 years and later moved to Calgary to be closer to family. Her occupations included graphic design work and real estate. She enjoyed traveling to various countries of the world and even lived in Nova Scotia for a year. Her hobbies were deeply ingrained in artistic endeavours such as photography, stained glass, drawing and painting, as well as dress-making and gardening. She rode horses, played tennis and snow skied as long as she could. Join us for a celebration of her life on February 15, 2025 at 30 Everstone BLVD SW, Calgary, AB at 1:00 PM or view remotely at https://zoom.us/j/96905948403. Refreshments will follow.
Additionally, a graveside dedication will take place on May 2, 2025 – our parent’s anniversary – at the Hillside Cemetery (section E) in Medicine Hat beginning at 1:00 pm.

DENNIS VIKEN

DENNIS VIKEN April 30, 1943 ~ January 5, 2025
Dennis Viken passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Sunday, January 5, 2025. Dennis is survived by his sisters, Joyce (Gary) Swaney and Shirley Kleinknecht as well as his brother, Roger. He also leaves behind five nieces and two nephews. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Joan Viken as well as his brothers, Glenn (Jean) Viken and Steven in infancy.
Dennis was born in Medicine Hat on April 30, 1943. In 1949, the family moved to a farm where Dennis would spend most of his life. Even before reaching his teenage years, he took to driving the tractor, beginning a lifelong dedication to farming and cattle ranching. Although Dennis lived in Medicine Hat starting in 2022, his heart and mind always remained with his antique tractors and his ranching and farming operation.
A Private Celebration has taken place. If friends so desire, tributes in memory of Dennis may be made to the charity of one’s choice. (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”

JOYCE MARION MATTSON (NEE MIZGA)

JOYCE MARION MATTSON (NEE MIZGA) Jul 4-1937 – Dec 5-2024
Joyce is now with her beloved Harold Mattson waltzing to “True Love” among the stars simpatico. She passed peacefully after a short, valiant, unexpected fight with Lung Cancer.
Joyce began her adventurous life in Medicine Hat, AB-born to Michael & Rose Mizga (nee Kutinsky). Whether sailing a makeshift raft across the South Saskatchewan River with her best bud, Susie Middleton or riding her binder down the SE Hill on her way home, she was never averse to exciting & good times. Her love of choirs, free movies & tooling around town with her friends was how she spent her early youth. Her love of competitive sport began early-she was on the Jr. Girls baseball when they won as City Champs in 1951 & held the record for Triple Jump in school for many years. After high school, she moved to Edmonton (1956) for her first job at MacCosham Storage & charmed Harold Mattson in a chance meeting. Returning to their hometown of Medicine Hat, they married on Aug 24, 1957 at Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church.
As newlyweds they returned to Cold Lake Air Force Base where Harold was stationed. Brenda was born Jun 30-1958 & as a family began a new journey to Europe (1959) sailing across the Atlantic aboard Cunard RMS Ivernia. Stationed in Marville, France until 1963 & lived in Florenville, Belgium. Collette was born Jan 10-1961 & as a family they ventured around Europe & England. Favorite destination was Denmark to visit the Madsen relatives.
Over the next 18 yrs, they were posted in Moose Jaw, SK (1963), St. Jean, QC (1967), Dartmouth, NS (1973), Namao, AB (1981). After Harold’s retirement, they moved to Brooks (1982), Medicine Hat (1986), Redcliff (1993), Edmonton (2001), Medicine Hat (2007). Joyce always found employment with each transition-Providence Hospital (SK), Crane Canada (QC), Toledo Scale (NS/AB), Shiloh Equip (AB) & Sproule/Bearing Transmission (AB). With the passing of Harold, Joyce found her way back to Edmonton (2014) to live with her daughters for the final 10 years. Creating treasured moments, keeping them on their toes with her ever-present wit & humor. She loved to laugh & her sweet smile remains dear. Her room sits quiet & profoundly empty-missing sounds of sports games, cheering, music & keyboard tapping. She loved sending emails to family & friends sharing jokes, music videos-she was very adept with her computer.
Still focused on fun-bowling, curling, golf & darts filled their spare time. Joyce won Silver Medal in 1986 Alberta Winter Games-5 Pin Bowling, achieving 2-300+ games-5 Pin Bowling in 1989 showed her ever competitive nature. Being at the top of her game brought out her zeal to win even with cards, board games, etc. Stock Ticker-her game of choice-“Oil up 20”. She forever quested for the large lotto winning ticket; scratch tickets ever present.
Favorite destination in retirement was Mesa, Arizona where they visited the sites & relaxed in the warmth of the sun during the winter months with an ever-present novel in hand. Reading was her passion.
Toronto Blue Jays, Arizona Diamondbacks, Calgary Flames & Florida Panthers are short one enthusiastic, cheering fan. She never missed a game & triumphed with the Panthers Stanley Cup win last year. Her spectator sport passion began with her love-hate relationship with Les Canadiens. Her loud cheering of the Boston Bruins in the Montreal Forum did not illicit merriment from home team fans surrounding her. She loved every minute. She was hoping to get to Rogers Centre to see the new renos & cheer on her Blue Jays. It will be a sad time when Opening Season begins in 2025.
Joyce’s priority was always her family. She was fiercely loyal & proud of her daughters. She retained delightful recollections & kept them woven in her heart to share with us. She loved to have conversations with anyone-family, friends, strangers-sussing out their history as they chatted. She was a staunch friend to the end. She & Harold were wonderful parents & their loss will be felt in our hearts forever. We will honor their memory & cherish every moment we shared.
She is survived by devoted daughters-Brenda & Collette. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law: Ruth Gallagher (Calif), Irene Duncan (Wpg), Joyce Cutts (Edm) & Enid Plumb (Smoky Lake).
She was predeceased by her husband-Harold Mattson, parents-Michael & Rose Mizga & in-laws-Hans & Bertha Mattson & sister-Elsie Sickel.
Extra hugs to special friends-Sue Faure & Dawn McMaster from Medicine Hat who cared for Joyce from near & far-she cherished them-her other “girls”.
Cremation has taken place by Simply Cremations (Edm). Honoring Joyce’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. She will be interred in a private function & laid to rest with Harold “together forever” at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. Both resting in peace in their favorite place, God’s country-Medicine Hat, AB. Finally, they will be back home side by side.
To continue Joyce’s generous nature-please donate to your favorite charity. She was especially fond of the University Hospital Foundation in Harold’s honor for their amazing research in Brain Care.
“You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, & though we cannot see or hold you, you’re always at our side”

BRIAN MARSHALL

BRIAN MARSHALL 1948 ~ 2025 It is with deep sadness that the family of Brian Michael James Marshall announce his passing in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at the age of 76 years. He was born on July 5, 1948, in Empress, Alberta to Mike and Elizabeth ‘Betty’. Brian leaves to cherish his memory: children, Tyler and Kendra (Taylor) and their mother, Jackie; sisters, Darlene Stolz and Diana (Alvin) Weinberger; brother, Stan (Kim) Marshall as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews. Brian was a much loved family member and dear friend. His warm smile, wisdom, wit and gentle heart will be greatly missed. Brian’s life will be cherished 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”

BRUCE HARTY

BRUCE HARTY 1949 ~ 2025 Bruce Allan Harty, beloved husband of the late Kathleen Harty, passed away at AgeCare Riverview in Medicine Hat on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the age of 75 years. Left to carry on his legacy are his three sons, Robert (Melanie), Neal (Lisa) and Daniel; five grandchildren as well as his three great-grandchildren. Along with Kathleen, Bruce was pre-deceased by his grandsons, James and Ben. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, 238 – 2 Avenue N.E., Medicine Hat on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Roque Pereira celebrant. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. To read about Bruce’s life story or to offer condolences to his family, please visit our website 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”

ELSIE HARVEY

ELSIE HARVEY (1924 2025)
Elsie Harvey, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of January 10, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta.
Born on November 14, 1924, in Dunmore, Alberta, Elsie’s early years were spent in the warmth of a close-knit family. Her family later moved to Medicine Hat, where Elsie spent most of her life. In 1942, she married the
love of her life, Eric (Fuzzy) Harvey, and together they raised three children, creating a home filled with love.
Elsie had a unique gift for making people feel truly cared for. She had an innate ability to anticipate the needs of those around her, always making sure others were well taken care of even before they realized it themselves. Whether it was through her thoughtful gestures or the way she fussed over her loved ones to ensure their comfort and happiness, Elsie’s love and attention never went unnoticed. Her selflessness and nurturing spirit made her an irreplaceable presence in the lives of her family and friends.
She is survived by her children Diane (Ed) Bockman and Garret, grandchildren Doug (Diane), Angela, Aaron and Jessica (Randy), Jeremy and Jasmine (Garret), as well as eight great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister Anne and brother Dennis; Mary Harvey; and cousin Jean.
She was predeceased by her husband Eric (Fuzzy) Harvey, her son Randal J (Randy) Harvey, Judy Harvey (Garret), her brother Andrew (Andy), her sister Vera, and her grandsons Jeffrey (Diane), Stuart (Randy), and
great granddaughter Talia (Jessica).
Elsie’s kindness, grace, and deep devotion to others were the hallmarks of her life. She was always ready with a listening ear or a helping hand, and her love was the kind that made everyone feel valued and cherished. Her
memory will live on in the hearts of those she cared for, and her unwavering commitment to those she loved will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A small memorial service will be held in Medicine Hat at a future date, where family and close friends will gather to honor and celebrate her remarkable life.
Elsie will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of experiencing the incredible difference she made simply by loving those around her. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Bow Crest Care Centre in Calgary for the loving care they provided Elsie in her later years.
In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Canada

FRANKLIN JACK SCHNEIDER

FRANKLIN JACK SCHNEIDER 1933 ~ 2025 Frank, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on January 10, 2025, in Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital, AB, after a valiant 8.5 year battle with cancer. Born on August 15, 1933, in Medicine Hat, AB, Frank’s life was a testament to his loving, friendly, and kind nature, which touched the hearts of all who knew him.
Frank’s journey began as the son of Albert and Emma Schneider, and he grew up alongside his brother Allan, who predeceased him. His early years in Hilda were filled with the love of a close-knit family and the beginnings of a lifelong passion for cars and mechanics. In 1955, Frank proudly obtained his journeyman mechanic’s certification and joined his father at Schneider Motors in Hilda, AB. Just two years later, he purchased the family business, continuing a legacy of quality service and community trust.In 1976, Frank’s career took a new turn when he moved to Medicine Hat and took on the role of parts manager at Gardner Motors. His expertise and outgoing nature made him a respected figure in the automotive community until his retirement in 1986.
Frank’s life was enriched by his beloved wife Diana of 65 years, who stood by his side through every chapter of their journey together. Their love story was one for the ages, and together they raised a family that became Frank’s pride and joy. He is survived by his son Aaron and his wife Diana, along with his sons, Graham and Alex; his daughter Delphine, her husband Gerald, and their children Jessie (Andrew) and David. The light of Frank’s life extended to his great-grandson, Gerard, who brought him immense joy.
Beyond his professional and family life, Frank had a zest for adventure and cherished holidays, especially cruises, which allowed them to explore the world and create lasting memories with his family. His friendly nature made him a beloved figure in every community he was part of.Frank’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, hard work, and dedication to those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As we bid farewell to Frank, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, friendship, and kindness that will continue to inspire generations to come.
In keeping with Frank’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family celebration of life and graveside service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly-McKinley St. Albert Funeral Home.
To share photos, memories, and condolences, please visit http://www.connelly-mckinley.com.

BARRY BUECKERT

~ BARRY BUECKERT ~ Through scripture and song, Barry’s life was honoured this past Thursday in Cook’s chapel. His family is at peace knowing that he is safe in the arms of Jesus.

Surely goodness and mercy Shall follow me all of the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
His Life Lived…
His Life Cherished…
His Life Honoured.

Courtesy of

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”

MARY VENHUIS

MARY VENHUIS 1943 – 2025 Mary Venhuis passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 81 years,, beloved wife of the late Fred Venhuis. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. 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

PAT BACHMEIER

PAT BACHMEIER 1942 – 2025 Patricia “Pat” Ann Bachmeier of Medicine Hat, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the age of 82 years, beloved wife of the late Richard Bachmeier who passed away six years ago on January 17, 2019. She leaves to cherish her memory three sons Barry, Jerry (Laurie) and James; one grandson Daniel; four sisters Shirley Chow, Phyllis Melbourn, Linda Sneider and Theory Chiu. Besides her husband Richard, Pat was predeceased by her parents Phillip and Anne Sneider. A private family interment service will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully decline and those who wish to remember Pat with a donation may do so to the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, Medicine Hat c/o Alberta Cancer Foundation 710 – 10123 99 Street, Edmonton, AB T5J 3H1 or online at albertacancer.ca/in-memory. 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

PATRICIAVIVIANFREEMAN(NEEHUGHES

PATRICIA VIVIAN FREEMAN (nee Hughes) March 15, 1928 January 13, 2025 Pat passed away peacefully at St Joseph’s Home on the morning of January 13, 2025. She was predeceased by her beloved husband “Buzz” and their infant daughter, Wendy. She will be greatly missed by her three sons; Barry (Sandra), Terry (Carolyn), and Gary (Michelle), seven grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren; Tyler and Christine Freeman (Holden and Lillian), Kristen and Clayton Boiteau (Beck, Vann, and Lennon), Lisa and Nick Markovinovich (Hayden and Paisley), Meagan and Dan Bachmeier (Ben), Mark Freeman, Matthew Freeman and Kendra Paul (Hudson and Thea), and Eric Freeman (Charlotte and Carson).
Pat loved to sing and, throughout her life, was involved in music as a member of several choirs, in many musical theatre productions, and as a soloist. She loved working with children in her many years as an educational assistant at Vincent Massey School and was very involved in the life and work of Fifth Ave. Memorial United Church. She liked to travel and enjoyed several cruises and annual trips to Banff. In the summer, you would find her working in her garden tending her “posies”. In her later years, Pat lived at Meadow Ridge and loved the staff there. She was often singing and teasing and always looked forward to her favourite food ice cream!
The family would like to give special thanks to the dedicated staff at Meadow Ridge for their kind and compassionate care throughout these past nine years. They would also like to thank the caring staff at St Joseph’s Home for their compassion in Pat’s final days.
Farewell, Mum we will listen for your voice in the rustling of leaves, the songs of birds, and the choir of angels…
To honour her request, there will be no funeral service.
To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.

PAT LIBOIRON

PAT LIBOIRON 1949 – 2025 Patrick Liboiron, beloved husband of Brenda Liboiron of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the age of 75 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. 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

FRED VENHUIS

FRED VENHUIS 1940 – 2025 Fred Venhuis passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at the age of 84 years, beloved husband of Mary Venhuis who passed away on Monday January 13, 2025. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. 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

MERLE HALKO

MERLE HALKO 1943 – 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Merle Halko, who left us peacefully on January 5, 2025, in Medicine Hat. Merle was born on October 12, 1943, in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, to Rebecca and Sam Jesse. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered.

Merle was preceded in death by her husband Peter, dear brothers, Gary, and Ivan. She is survived by her loving daughter, Debbie (Glenn) Pottle and her devoted son, Ward Halko, along with her treasured granddaughter, Jessica (Ray-Al) Hochman, and her cherished grandson, Jordan (Carlyn) Hood. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her great grandchildren Decker, Cabella, Titan, and Arrow. Merle was immensely proud of her family and found joy in every moment spent with them.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, particularly those on the fourth floor (west), for their compassionate care during Merle’s final days.
A celebration of Merle’s life will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE. All are welcome to join in honoring a life so beautifully lived, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend. Please visit Merle’s obituary page on our website, for the link. Merle Halko will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. To read the full obituary or 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

SHERYL DOWLER

SHERYL DOWLER 1968 – 2025 it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of sheryl lynn dowler of medicine hat, beloved wife of michael william dowler. sheryl passed away peacefully on january 15, 2025, at the age of 56 years, surrounded by the love of her family.

the family would like to invite everyone to a public viewing on monday, january 20th from 7:00 to 8:00pm at pattison funeral home, and welcome all to a celebration of life on tuesday, january 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the bridge church (350 1st ave ne).

to leave a message of condolence and to read the full obituary, please visit sheryl’s obituary page at http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com


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

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