August 8, 2025

By Obituaries on August 8, 2025.

GORDON MEIDINGER

GORDON MEIDINGER 1934 ~ 2025 Gordon Roy Meidinger, loving husband of Sharon, passed away at St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the age of 90 years. A Celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Ed Lehman officiating. A time of fellowship will follow at Reflections. To read more about Gordon’s life story or to offer condolences please visit 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”

DESMOND ZIELKE

DESMOND ZIELKE December 9, 1958 ~ August 2, 2025
It is with heavy hearts the family of Desmond Reed Zielke announce his passing in Medicine Hat on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the age of 66 years.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Tamara Oman (Cameron Fairhurst) and their fur children, Juno and Arlo; son, Levi Zielke (Isabel McNeil) and their fur children, Snoopy, Boots and Speckles; mother, Noreen; sisters, Paula (Dan), Vicki (Nyle) and Kelly; his furbaby, Scarlet; cousins, Tim and Carl; college friend, Frank who Desmond enjoyed having coffee with as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. He was predeceased by his father, Ewald.
A true guitar enthusiast, Desmond found joy in singing and strumming his favorite songs, often filling rooms with music and heart. Whether around a campfire or at home during a family gathering, his voice and guitar brought people together. He had a gift for conversation always ready to listen, share a story or offer words of wisdom with warmth and sincerity.
Desmond was deeply devoted to his family, always a steady presence through life’s highs and lows. His strength and perseverance were unmatched he weathered life’s storms with grace, never losing his gentle spirit. He was endlessly supportive of his children, encouraging them in every step of their journeys and celebrating their milestones with pride.
Christmas was Desmond’s favourite time of year and his love for the holiday shone in every gathering filled with music, food and the company of those he loved most. He enjoyed camping trips in the mountains, evenings spent playing games and caring for the animals who meant so much to him. He also had a fondness for collecting knickknacks each with a story or a memory behind it.
Above all, Desmond lived with heart. His kindness, his resilience and his ability to bring people together will never be forgotten.
A private celebration of Desmond’s 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”

FLORENCE ELLEFSON

FLORENCE ELLEFSON 1933 ~ 2025 Florence Ellefson of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Clifford Ellefson, passed away on Thursday, July 31st, 2025, at the age of 92 years. Florence leaves to cherish her memory her children, Rodney (Debbie) Ellefson and Donnie (Terry) Ellefson; grandchildren, Cori Ellefson, John (Jodie) Ellefson, Lisa (Mike) Smith, and Jeff (Angela) Ellefson; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Elmer (Shirley) Lang; sister, Evelyn Blosha; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Florence was predeceased by her husband, Clifford; parents, Fred and Marie Lang; and brother, Alvin Lang. No formal service will be held. Florence has been laid to rest in eternal peace with her beloved husband, Clifford, at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Florence Ellefson. 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.

BOB HALL

1929 ~ BOB HALL ~ 2025 Robert “Bob” Hall went to be with the Lord on July 30, 2025, at the age of 95 years. A Celebration of Bob’s life was held yesterday at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. Memorial gifts in Bob Hall’s memory may be made to the Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation (Dialysis Unit). Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Robert Hall. 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.

DOUGLAS “DOUG” BAMFORD

DOUGLAS “DOUG” BAMFORD 1951-2025 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas “Doug” Murray Bamford, who left this world on August 1, 2025, at the age of 73 years. Doug was born on October 19, 1951, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, and spent his early years in Regina before moving to Victoria. However, it was in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where he found his home and remained until his passing. Doug was the beloved son of Ralph and Katherine Bamford, who preceded him in death, along with his cherished brother, David Bamford. Doug is survived by his loving sisters, Janet (Don) Martin and Marg Serviss, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Doug was known for his loving, kind, and gentle nature. He touched the hearts of everyone he met, embodying the spirit of warmth and compassion. For many years, he resided at Cypress View Lodge, where he built deep connections with both the staff and residents, who became like family to him. Doug had a passion for reading, watching television, and he thrived in the company of friends as he participated in various Lodge activities. He had a remarkable gift for making those around him feel special and cared for, and his legacy of kindness will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew him. No formal service will be held at this time. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Doug Bamford Bamford. 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.

MARY WEINBERGER

MARY WEINBERGER 1924 ~ 2025 Mary (Lacher) Weinberger was born on February 24, 1924, on the family farm nine and a half miles northeast of Fox Valley, Saskatchewan, to Frank Lacher and Julianna Selzler, and passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, at AgeCare Riverview Medicine Hat, at the age of 101 years.
Mary attended Berghanson County school, and completed high school in Fox Valley. She went on to Normal School in Regina and entered the teaching profession. She taught in several country schools in the Fox Valley area for fifteen years. In 1957 she began working for Canada Post and worked for them for 35 years.
Mary was a founding member of the Fox Valley Catholic Women’s League, and she was a lifelong member, recently receiving her membership pin for her 75th year.
Mary married Frank Weinberger on December 27, 1946, in Fox Valley, where they resided until Mary’s retirement in 1989 when they moved into a retirement condo in Medicine Hat. Frank passed away in 1999.
Mary’s retirement years were very busy. She enjoyed curling, bowling, playing cards with the ladies, bingo, knitting, cross stitching, jigsaw puzzles and reading. Mary was an avid Blue Jays fan and watched all the games she could. Curling was another sport that Mary never missed on TV.
Mary was predeceased by her husband Frank and her siblings, Wendelin, Joseph, Vincent, Katie, Betty, Gabe, and Larry. She leaves behind to cherish her memory many nieces and nephews and two sisters-in-law, Wilma and Barb Weinberger. Rest in peace Aunt Mary.
Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Tuesday, August 12th at 7:00 p.m. The funeral Mass will be held in the HOLY FAMILY PARISH on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Fernando Genogaling celebrant. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Mary’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

ERMA SCHNEE

ERMA SCHNEE 1931 ~ 2025 Erma Elaine Schnee (Heintz), passed away peacefully on Monday, August 4, 2025, with her husband Harold by her side. Erma was born in Kerrobert, Saskatchewan and started her working career as a nurses aide in 1947. She moved to Northwestern Ontario with her first husband in the late 1950’s, working tourist camps until they built a hardware store business and raised their three children. In 1980 Erma moved to Medicine Hat, where she met Harold at a dance and they married September 12, 1981. Together they farmed for many years in the Conquerville area. The farm was a green paradise on the prairies and a place of many fond memories. They eventually retired in Medicine Hat. Erma is survived by her husband Harold, of forty-four years; two daughters, Brenda Hofteig, Cheryl (Sabah) Chahal and one son Brent (Glynis) Weaver; six grandchildren, Khaled (Nicole) Chahal, Rasheed (Zeina) Chahal, Kristin (Gavin) Konoski, Wesley (Chelsey) Weaver, Jesse and Colby Weaver; five great grandchildren, Nahla, Tariq, Jude, Quinn, and Maeve. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Wilma Heintz, and one grandson, Tarek Chahal. Erma loved working with her hands and creating beautiful needlework pieces and quilts. She was a judge of such items at many fairs and exhibitions around Southeastern Alberta. She was a longstanding member of the Ladies Auxiliary, Women’s Institute and Calgary Needle Craft Guild. Erma and Harold loved to dance, and they square danced with the Hat Swingers, she was loved by many and will be sadly missed.
The memorial service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant, David Townsend officiating. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Erma’s obituary page on our website, for the link. Those who wish to remember Erma with a donation, may do so to the charity of their 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

ANNE BECKER

ANNE BECKER 1933 – 2025
Anne Becker, beloved mother, nanny, sister, auntie, and friend, passed away peacefully in Medicine Hat on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the age of 92 years.
Anne will be cherished and lovingly remembered by her daughters and sons-in-law Debbie (Terry) Sehn of Medicine Hat, Cheryl (Darryl) Bartman of Medicine Hat, and Lynette (Lindsay) Moser of Tisdale; her grandchildren, Taryn (Jeremy) Bolder of Calgary, Jeff (Jen) Sehn of Morinville, Jonathan Bartman of Calgary, Lyndon (Courtney) Bartman of Grande Prairie, Logan (Amanda) Moser of Nipawin and Leith Moser of Edmonton; and great-grandchildren, Mason and Crosby Bolder, Anya and Ryker Sehn, and Sawyer and Grady Bartman; brother-in-law, Erwin Becker, and sister-in-law, Doreen MacKinnon along with several nieces and nephews.
Anne was predeceased by her husband Walter; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Emil (Martha) Sulz, John (Helen) Sulz, Karl (Hertha) Sulz, Dave (Miriam) Sulz and her sister and partner in crime, Vi (Albert) Christman the other half of the infamous duo known as the ‘Twisted Sisters’.
Anne was born in Medicine Hat on February 19, 1933, to Karl and Martha, who emigrated from Wittenberg, Bessarabia, Russia to farm near Irvine, Alberta. During her childhood, Anne and her family worked hard to keep the farm running. As the youngest of six children, Anne served as the primary caregiver for her ailing father while her mother and older siblings took on the majority of the farmwork.
In 1956, Anne married the love of her life, Walter Becker. The two started their life together in Medicine Hat where Walter worked at Alpha Dairies and Anne managed the office at Woolworth’s alongside her sister-in-law and friend, Doreen a career that would last almost 50 years. In 1957, they welcomed their first daughter Deborah Ann, followed by Cheryl Lynn in 1961, and Lynette Jane in 1962.
Over the years, Anne, Walter and their girls spent many summers travelling to Kelowna to visit the ‘BC Bunch’ or to Calgary where they visited family and shopped. Anne also really enjoyed spending time in Bassano with her sister Vi, and in Burstall where she loved watching the annual Burstall Sports Day baseball tournament. Some of her greatest memories were also getting together at the Sulz Family Reunion an event she rarely missed.
Anne enjoyed watching hockey and baseball live and on TV. In particular, she loved watching the Medicine Hat Tigers and was a dedicated season ticket holder of nearly 50 years. Anne also really enjoyed playing cards with her family and friends in her regular card group. Schmear a game that she learned from her brother Emil was her personal favourite and tended to bring out the competitive side of Anne. Gloves came off when a game of Schmear was on the line!
Beyond all else, family was Anne’s biggest passion. Her love for her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids was unwavering, and she was there for every significant life event. From hockey games to graduation ceremonies to first home purchases to weddings, Nanny was always there to celebrate and cheer them on. She was their biggest fan and was so proud of their accomplishments.
Nanny’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. She was a kind, selfless, thoughtful and generous person who loved fiercely and lived life to the fullest. Her memory will be cherished forever, and she will be missed by all.
A Celebration of Anne’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901- 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so beginning one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 10:55 a.m. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. A time of fellowship will follow in the Cook Southland Reception Facility.
Anne’s service will be live-streamed. Those wishing to attend the service virtually may do so by visiting the Cook Southland website and selecting the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. (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”

CATHY VAN DER HEIDEN

CATHY VAN DER HEIDEN 1934 ~ 2025 Mrs. Catharina ‘Cathy’ van der Heiden, beloved wife of the late Everett van der Heiden Sr., passed away at Sunnyview Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the age of 91 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”

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