March 22, 2025

By Obituaries on March 22, 2025.

MARIE FLECK

MARIE FLECK January 8, 1939 ~ February 22, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our incredible mom,grandma, and wife. Marie leaves behind her loving husband of 69 years, Reno Sr.; son, Reno Jr. (Cheryl); daughter, Paula (Todd) Wright; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Marie was predeceased by her son, Anthony, and daughter, Lois. The Memorial Service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 1:30 pm. For Marie’s full obituary, please go to http://www.saamis.com. 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.

JANICE AUSTIN

1945 ~ JANICE AUSTIN ~ 2025 Janice Joyce Austin of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late James “Jimmy” Austin, passed away on Saturday, March 15th, 2025, at the age of 79 years. Janice is survived by her three children and grandchildren; daughter, Tamara Anton, and her son, Austin Anton; son, Steven (Amanda) Austin and their daughters, Jenna and Jaylyn; son, Scott (Dawn) Austin and their daughters, Izabel and Kassidy; her sisters-in-law, Jane Needrum and Karen (Bill) Rae; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, extended special family, and many loyal and good friends. She was predeceased by her husband James “Jimmy” Austin; her mom and dad, Otto and Frieda Reuer; her in-laws, James and Alice Austin; her dear sisters, Audry (Fred) Ammann and Ethel Reuer; and one brother-in-law, Douglas Needrum. Janice was the best wife, mother, and grandmother that anyone could ever wish for. Her love was the glue that kept us together, she got us through every hardship. Oh, and the food!! Best cook ever! Her devotion and love will live on in our hearts forever. Miss you and love you today, tomorrow, and always. Glad you are back together with Dad. There will be no formal funeral as per Janice’s request. A private family graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery at a later date. Memorial gifts in Janice’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Janice Austin. 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.

GARY KINVIG

GARY KINVIG 1948 ~ 2025 It is with profound sadness that the family of Gary Grayston Kinvig announce his recent passing. Gary was born in Medicine Hat on September 1, 1948, and passed away at River Ridge Senior’s Village in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the age of 76 years. Gary will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 55 wonderful years, Linda; sons, Ken and Keith (Nancy) as well as one grandson, Caeden. He is also survived by his brother, Robert (Margaret); sister, Bonnie (Glen) Hilling and many cherished nieces and nephews. Gary was predeceased by his parents, Ken and Gwen; in-laws, Ken and Gerry Clark; brothers-in-law, Donald and Art (Kathy); sister-in-law, Marie as well as numerous extended family. Gary’s family wish to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff at River Ridge Seniors Village for their excellent care, compassion, heartfelt dedication and professionalism; you are truly dedicated assets in your chosen career! A Celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Margaret McCulley officiating. A time of fellowship will follow immediately thereafter in the Cook Southland Reception Facility. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) If friends so desire, tributes in memory of Gary may be made to the Alzheimer Society, 306, 10430 – 61 Avenue N.W., Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 2J3 or to Diabetes Canada, 1300 – 522 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2R5. 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”

MARK LEEKS

MARK LEEKS
1956 ~ 2025
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mark Douglas Leeks announce his passing on March 18, 2025, at the age of 69 years. Mark was born in Eatonia, SK., on February 13, 1956, to Frederick and Phyllis (nee Denton) Leeks. Left to cherish Mark’s memory is his sister, Mary Gauthier; brother, Russel Leeks; sister-in-law, Carolyn Leeks as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, Mark was predeceased by two sisters, Margaret and Lynn; one brother, Eric and a brother-in-law, Scott Gauthier. Mark’s greatest joy in life came from umping baseball, golf, playing in the dart league, spending time with family and friends as well as enjoying a good cup (or three) of Timmies and a great game of crib. A Celebration of Mark’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. The Celebration will be live streamed and may be accessed by visiting Cook Southland’s website and selecting the View Broadcast button on the Homepage at service time. Interment will take place at a future date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Donations in memory of Mark may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Kidney Foundation of Canada. 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”

VIRGINIA HILDENBRAND

VIRGINIA HILDENBRAND April 5, 1926 ~ March 12, 2025
Virginia Lorraine Hildenbrand (nee Anderson), a caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully at AgeCare Sunrise Gardens in Brooks, Alberta, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the age of 98 years. Virginia was born in Brooks on April 5, 1926, the first of five children to Fred and Olivia Anderson. She spent most of her early life on the farm in Scandia, helping with her four younger siblings as well as the home and farm chores while attending Jenny Lind School. Virginia was also an accomplished pianist and vocalist, singing in numerous choirs over the years. She enjoyed singing in church choirs, especially the opportunity to sing with her Anderson family at Salem Lutheran Church in Scandia.Jim and Virginia were married in 1948, moving to Taber shortly thereafter. This is where they spent the majority of their married life, raising their family while contributing to the social and economic life in Taber. While in Taber, they spent a number of their retirement winters in Yuma, Arizona.In their later years, Jim and Virginia moved to Medicine Hat where she continued to enjoy canning and baking, journaling, quilting and especially sharing her highly popular cinnamon rolls and ginger snaps, the recipes for which have been passed down.Jim passed in 2008, while they were living in Medicine Hat. Thereafter, Virginia found companionship with Edwin Deering, and they spent a number of years together until her health necessitated another move. This time, she moved back to her old stomping grounds in Brooks to AgeCare Sunrise Gardens where she spent her last years respectfully and warmly cared for by a wonderful staff as well as her loving nieces, nephews and extended family. Family wish to thank everyone for the care, love and understanding Virginia received over her many years, some of which were not easy.Virginia was predeceased by her parents; three brothers, Kermith, Ron and Doug; son, Robert and husband, James. She is survived by her sister, Elaine; sister-in-law, Carol; son, Don (Henny) and daughter, Deb (Bryan). She is also survived by grandchildren, Scott (Krista); Erik (Victoria); Corina (Trevor) and Taylor (Hannah); great-grandchildren, Olivia, Naomi and Eve Gelmon and their father Michael; Izayeh Tomczyk, Nathaniel, Eliza and Madeline Hildebrand.Heaven has received another deserving member of the team of walking and whistling angels. Virginia’s celebration of life will be held at a later date. (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”

BILL STODALKA

~ BILL STODALKA ~
A Funeral Mass was held at Holy Family this past Monday to honour Bill’s life. He has been reunited with his beloved Jo, safe in the arms of Jesus.

Be yourself – but be your best self. Expect the best from yourself. Follow your own star.
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”

JOHNNY CORK

~ JOHNNY CORK ~
Johnny’s free spirit and love for the open road, good food and great company was celebrated this past week at Cook’s Chapel. He will be forever remembered!
When you’re feeling alone just remember our love, I’m up near the stars looking down from above. 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”

RANDY ROSE

RANDY ROSE 1956 ~ 2025 With the family in our thoughts and on their behalf, we respectfully announce the passing of Randy Rose, beloved husband of Beverley Rose of Medicine Hat. Randy passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the age of 68 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced once completed. (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”

NORM SMITH

~ NORM SMITH ~
Just a short time has passed since family and friends gathered together at Cook’s Chapel to honour Norm. His selfless dedication to our community will be forever remembered by the many lives he touched.

For all of us you gave your best, Now the time has come for you to rest.
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”

ZACHARY WOODWARD

ZACHARY WOODWARD It is with heavy hearts that the family of Zachary Woodward announces his unexpected passing in Winnipeg, MB on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the age of 32 years. A Celebration of Zachary’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced closer to that day. (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”

GORDON ALFRED STACEY

GORDON ALFRED STACEY October 6th, 1947 March 14th, 2025 Gordon Stacey passed away on March 14th, 2025, at the age of 77 years.
A Graveside Service will be held at Redcliff Cemetery on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025, at 11:00am. 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

ADRIAN ARMSTRONG

ADRIAN ARMSTRONG 1957- 2025 With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Adrian John Armstrong on March 7, 2025, in Medicine Hat, Alberta, at the age of 68 years. A Celebration of Adrian’s life was held yesterday at Saamis Creekside Centre. Memorial gifts in Adrian’s memory may be made to the United Conservatory of Music Student Fund. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Adrian Armstrong. 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.

KOMMERINA SMITH

KOMMERINA SMITH 1948 ~ 2025 Kommerina “Cory” Smith passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 76 years. Cory leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Cinimin Smith; her son, Wryan (Corlinda) Smith, and her grandchildren, Gavin and Shayla Smith. Cory was predeceased by her parents, Margaret and Bill Kinders; her sister, Mary Anne Thomason, and her husband, William “Porky” Smith. One of Cory’s greatest joys was her love for nature, she loved watching the birds build nests and lay eggs in the pine trees outside her apartment window. She loved thrift shopping and had a keen eye for vintage and antique items. Cory also had a passion for knowledge and loved to read, she has read 2-3 books a week for over 50 years. She cherished her outings with her good friend, Lorna Anderson, and enjoyed spending time with her helper and friend, Josh Fode. Cory believed in the importance of giving back and was known for encouraging others to donate items they no longer need to those who could benefit from them. She was also a strong advocate for organ donation. She understood the profound impact that such donations could have on individuals and families. In her memory, her family encourages you to consider becoming an organ donor and/or making donations to the Anatomical Donor Program at the University of Alberta, a cause she passionately supported. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Cory Smith. 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.

IRENE MERTIN

IRENE MERTIN 1936 ~ 2025 Mrs. Irene Mertin of Medicine Hat and formerly of Leader, beloved wife of the late Fred Mertin, passed away peacefully at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the age of 88 years. Left to cherish her memory are her four children: Duane (Deb) Mertin of Bowden, AB., Linora (Wes) MacEwen of St. Peters Bay, P.E.I., Dean (Jackie) Mertin of Leader, SK., and Darren (Della) Mertin of Leader, SK. along with all of their families. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Fred and her parents, Phillip and Annie Specht. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so starting one hour prior to the service which will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 400 – 5 Street West in Leader, SK., on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor John-Mark Bredeson officiating. Interment will follow in the Leader Cemetery. (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”

KATHLEEN EHNISZ

KATHLEEN EHNISZ 1937 ~ 2025 Kathleen Roberta Ehnisz (nee Price) beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in Medicine Hat on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the age of 87 years. She leaves to cherish her memory three children, Wanda Sumner and her daughter, Patricia Monkman and family; Cathy Brotzell (J Weatherhead), and her children, Jennifer Millen and Dwayne Brotzell and their families; and Carol James, and her children, Jill Shannon and Brent Shannon along with their families; as well as one sister, Rev. Jeannie Pattison-Brown. She was predeceased by her husband, Harry Ehnisz on March 10, 2009; son, Ronald James on November 7, 1976; three sisters, Harriet, Viola, and Roesrine as well as by two brothers, Larry and Vernon. Kathleen had spent the last few months of her life at South Country Village (Havenview) and her family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the staff. Private family interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery with a celebration of Kathleen’s life being held at a later date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Memorial donations in Kathleen’s name may be made directly to World Vision. 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”

ADELE COLE

ADELE COLE 1966 – 2025 It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Adele Cole on January 3, 2025, with her family by her side at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Adele went to join the love of her life, Lorne. The memorial service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. To honour Adele’s request, those attending please dress casual. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Adele’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

KAREN ERESMAN

KAREN ERESMAN 1964 – 2025 Karen Marie Eresman, beloved wife of Derry Eresman passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the age of 60 years. She also leaves to cherish her memory seven children Eric (Cindy) Lerner, Shawn Lerner, Amanda Lerner (Traiton Gallamore), David (Kendell) Lerner, Janine Eresman (Steven Neitz), Darrah (Kevin) Duchscherer and Kayla (Brett) Stolson; thirteen grandchildren Jeffrey, Rocky, Zayne, Londyn, Finley, Saffron, Phoenix, Jacey, Baby Lerner coming April 2025, Kayden, Logan, Carson, Bowen and Sutton; her mother Irene Bakanec; five brothers and sisters Kelly (Brenda) Bakanec, Kathy (Joseph) Schneider, Kereen Bakanec (Les Barrington), Keith Bakanec (Michele Adam) and Kurtis (Kristina) Bakanec; two sisters-in-law Johanna (Stan) Kambeitz and Bev (Scott) Luker as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Larry Bakanec and a brother Kevin in infancy. A celebration of Karen’s life will take place in the SEVEN PERSONS COMMUNITY HALL (426 Drinnan Street) on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Karen’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

JOHN MEIRING

JOHN MEIRING 1941 ~ 2025 John Abraham Meiring, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, at the age of 83 years, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Yvonne Meiring, his oldest daughter Alice, two sisters Lettie and Frannie and his brother Flip. Left to cherish his memory is his youngest daughter Madeleine (Adriaan) Kriel, three grandchildren; Phoebe Kriel (Yianni), Adriaan Kriel (Puruvi), Wessel Van Rensburg and two sisters; Sophie and Chrissie as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. John and Yvonne immigrated to Canada in 2010. He will always be remembered for his love for his family and pets, especially his dog, Jakkals, his insatiable curiosity for world events, especially sports and politics, as well as his love for gardening. The funeral service will be held in the Hillcrest Evangelical Missionary Church (3785 – 13th Avenue S.E.) on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with Chaplain George Koopmans officiating. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit John’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

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