- Alberta, Canada, Marriages Index, 1898-1944 -
- Alberta, Newspaper BMD Index, 1889-2012 -
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STEWARD, Mary Evelyn
1909 - 2006
Mary Evelyn Steward was born in Edmonton, AB, on December 1, 1909 and passed away on February 5, 2006, at the Coronation Extended Care Centre with her family at her side. Mum married Cyril Steward on May 24, 1933, and they had four children - Margaret Boldt, Bob (Darleen) Steward, Rose (Lindsay) Hay and Joyce (Eugene) Snyder. The folks homesteaded in the Peace River, area, later moving to the Cassell Hill, and Michichi, area. They later purchased a farm at Hesketh, AB, and lived there until they retired to Drumheller. Mum taught school at Cassell Hill, Lennox, and substituted for a short time at Hesketh. Mum was active in the Fellowship Baptist Church, and she and another lady of the Church started the Ladies Mission Circle and she taught Sunday School as well. Mum always found time to help others, especially the family. When there was a problem, she and Dad were always there to help out. She also found the time to help us and the grandchildren learn how to bake, crochet, knit and cook. No one ever left their house hungry. Mum was predeceased by her brothers - John, Dawson and Steven and her brother-in-law, Sam Leckie. She is survived by her sister, Robena Leckie and her sister-in-law, Elsie Dart. A memorial service was held at the Fellowship Baptist Church on Wednesday, February 8, 2006 with Reverend David Plant officiating. Interment was in the Drumheller Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Sunshine Lodge or the charity of their choice. Courtney-Winter's Funeral Home were in care of arrangements.
BERTSCH, Ella
Ella Bertsch, formerly of Three Hills and Drumheller, passed away in Red Deer, on Saturday, February 18, 2006.
Funeral service will be at the Carbon Baptist Church on Saturday, February 25, 2006 at 1:00 PM.
BIXBY, George
George Bixby passed away Sunday, February 19, 2006 in Drumheller, at the age of 78 years. He is survived by his loving family, son, Bud and Shelley of Strathmore, one brother, Frank and Linda of East Coulee; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and a lifetime of friends. George was predeceased by his wife Rose in 1982, son Rocky in 2002, parents Fred and Agnes, as well as five brothers, Percy, Lloyd, Rob, Norman and Harold, three sisters, Alice Bixby, Pearl McFadden and Evelyn Frayn. George enjoyed country music, shuffleboard, horseshoes and spending time with good friends and family. A celebration of George's life will be held Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 2:00 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion, Drumheller. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Sunshine Lodge in memory of George. The Bixby Family are entrusted with arrangements.
CHIASSON, Olive Ceaserea
1914 - 2006
Olive Ceaserea Chiasson passed away peacefully at home in Sundre, on February 15, 2006, at the age of 92 years. Olive was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on February 13, 1914. As a child, Olive lived in Winnipeg and Virden, Manitoba, as well as Weyburn, Saskatchewan. She and her daughter moved from Winnipeg, to Calgary, in 1965, where she met her late husband, Wilf in 1967. They spent many happy years together in Wayne, where they married in 1978. They retired in Sundre, Alberta, in the early eighties. Olive spent a large portion of her life selling everything from fashion jewelry, investments and makeup to Rawleigh and Watkin Products. Olive was also proud of the time she spent serving as a County Counselor in the Drumheller area. Olive was predeceased by her parents, Grace and John Milne, and her husband, Wilf. Olive is survived by her daughter, Grace; son-in-law, Sergio; stepchildren: Reg (Patricia), Pat (Chuck), DeWayne (Dulcie) and Lyle (Linda); grandchildren: Jordan (Jordana) Stephen, Jennifer and her faithful dog, 'Willow'. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes in Olive's honor may be made to STARS Air Ambulance. A Memorial Service was held at the Sundre United Church on Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 1:00 PM with Reverend Blair Whyte officiating. Mountain View Funeral Chapel, Olds entrusted with arrangements, 5226 - 46 Street Olds, (403)-556-3223
McKee, Lilah Vee (nee Hampton)
July 2 1918 – December 20 2006
Vee was born and raised in the Rowley area with her 3 brothers Dawn, LaVern and Grover (Skip). As her mother passed away suddenly at an early age, Vee took over her role and helped her father ‘raise’ the boys, something she loved to do. Vee met a local farmer named Roy McKee, and they were married January 20th 1938. Together they lived and farmed on the land that has been in the McKee name for decades.
Her only son, Larry, was born in October of the same year.
Vee was also part of the family custom harvest operation in the 40’s and would help drive through the USA and Canada, cooking for the crew as they worked. Cooking and baking was a passion of Vee’s and she will always be well-known for her superb cinnamon buns, breads and other delights. She took this interest to helping as a leader in the Rowley-Rumsey 4H cooking club for a number of years where many new students learned from her. Vee was an active member of the O.E.S. Ruth Chapter #55 in Drumheller. One of the most enjoyable times she spent was helping the Rowley community ‘restore’ the town and spending countless hours volunteering with family and friends in the museum, cooking breakfasts, pizza nights, and entertaining visitors from the train. She served in executive positions for the Rowley Community Hall Association and Rowley Yesteryear Museum and always took interest in the happenings of the area, even after moving away. Her generosity and large welcoming heart made her a special person (G.G., grandma or grandma/aunty Vee to most). The light of her life was the arrival of her grandchildren Laurel and Mike and she spent countless hours spoiling them and enjoying her time with them immensely. After the passing of Roy in 1994, she was ‘re-acquainted’ with a old friend from her past and in 1998, decided time was “too short” and moved to Strathmore with Jack Primrose. Together they had many adventures RV-ing and traveling around Alberta. Jack’s family opened their hearts to her and she to them. Vee wrote in the Rowley Pioneer Days book describing her life -- “…, though many material things have changed, good neighbors, relatives and friends are the same – in time of need the assistance one receives is beyond description. The warm handclasp of a friend is still a treasure. I feel it is a privilege to be acquainted with so many, many fine folk.”
Vee was predeceased by her parents, Prather and Lilah Hampton, her brothers LaVern, and Dawn, her husband Roy and her son Larry. She is survived by her daughter-in-law Heather, grandchildren Laurel (Darren) Diprose and Mike McKee, great-grandchildren Brandon, Justin, Corbin Diprose and Samantha McKee, brother Skip (Muriel) Hampton, sister-in-law Marie Hampton, and their families Stan & Wanda Hampton (Karen & Tara and families), Neil Hampton, Michele Hampton and family and her special partner Jack Primrose and his family. A celebration of Vee’s life will be held at the Rowley Community Hall December 30th from 1-3pm. Anyone wishing to say a few words in her memory will be more than welcome to at that time. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rowley Yesteryear Artifacts Museum or a charity of one’s choice.
OSTERGARD, Elsie
1913 - 2006
Elsie died peacefully on December 18, 2006 from complications arising from a fall. She had maintained full control of her life until just a few days before her death. Elsie Margaret Hansen was born October 2, 1913 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As a young, recently divorced mother, she found employment as a secretary in one of Michigan’s oldest and most respected law firms, where she remained until her retirement - a span of 34 years. One member of the firm, Gerald R. Ford, went on to become President of the United States. She married Axel Ostergard of Drumheller in 1980, and they settled in Grand Rapids. Five years later, she made the big adjustment of leaving her country and lifetime home and moving with Axel to Calgary. She adapted well, and acquired many new friends. Elsie’s favourite pastimes revolved around the great outdoors and classical music. She and Axel treasured their involvement with Calagary’s Skrastins Outdoor Club. Elsie also continued to attend classes to improve her mastery of the recorder flute until her final days. Elsies very considerable involvement in volunteer work began with the American Red Cross during WWII. She was particularly drawn to causes that involved either the socially downtrodden or the environment. She logged over 1200 hours of voluntary service to Calgary Meals on Wheels. She was happiest whenever she could roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty.
Elsie was predeceased by her daughter Susan, who died in a tragic accident while still a teenager, by her elder sister, Erna and by her husband, Axel. She will be fondly remembered by her younger sister, Lillian of New York, her stepson Don (Carol) Ostergard of Drumheller, her stepdaughter Vicki (Peter) Juliebo of Edmonton, and her step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It was Elsie’s request that no funeral service be held. However, the family wishes to invite all of Elsie’s friends to a memorial reception to be held at the Danish Canadian Club, 727 - 11 Ave. SW, Calgary, on Wednesday, January 3, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. If friends so wish, contributions in Elsie’s memory may be made to -- The Mustard Seed Street Ministry, 102 - 11 Ave. SE, Calgary T2G 0X5, The Agape Hospice, 1302- 8 Ave. NW, Calgary T2N 1B8 or any other charity of the donor’s choice.
BAGLEY, Thomas James
September 1, 1923 - November 29, 2006
Thomas James Bagley of Red Deer, Alberta, formerly Drumheller, Alberta, passed away on November 29, 2006 at the age of 83 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s, with his family at his side. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Margaret (nee Kelly), 3 sons; Rick (Lena), Fred (Kathy), Tim (Cindy), 2 daughters; Terry Lundgren, Patti Foulon (Gary), brother Fred (Marilyn), brother in law Alan Campbell, 6 grandchildren; Chelsea Layden (Jeremy), Brett Layden (Lisa), Chandra Lemessurier (Chad), Ashley Bagley (Deter), Brady Bagley (Cindy), and Cordell Bagley (Jodi), 4 great grandchildren; McKenna and Ethan Lemessurier, Kaydence Gillespie, and Ella Layden, as well as many other loving relatives and friends whose life he has touched. He was predeceased by his parents Allan and Kate Bagley, sister Mary Campbell, sons in law Bob Foulon and Duane Lundgren.
Tom was born in Rumsey, Alberta on September 1, 1923 and attended school in the area until grade 11 at which time he moved to Drumheller to finish his high school. Tom enlisted in the RCAF in 1941 and was discharged after the war having achieved the rank of Flight Lieutenant – 107 Mosquito Squadron. He farmed in the Rowley area from 1945 until 1975 upon retiring to Drumheller. He then worked for Alberta Hail and Crop Insurance until the age of 65. Due to failing health Tom and Margaret moved to the Innisfail Country Lodge in 2002. In January 2004, Tom was moved to the Red Deer Nursing Home and resided there until the time of his passing. A service in Tom’s memory was held on Monday, December 4, 2006 at 2:00pm at the Knox United Church, Drumheller, Alberta with Reverend Mac Jones officiating. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Tom to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta. Condolences can be forwarded to the family at 1079@alderwoods.com. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel was entrusted with arrangements.
RIPPER, Barney Lawrence
December 16, 1915 - November 30, 2006
With loving family by his side, Barney Ripper of Drumheller passed away peacefully in Drumheller Hospital on Thursday, November 30, 2006 at the age of 90 years. He leaves to mourn his beloved wife of 62 years, Alvina; six children, Gordon of Beaumont, Barry of St. Albert, Dan (Norma) of Drumheller, Diane Colburn (Renie) of Drumheller, Debbie Kittridge (Dave) of Calgary, Kevin (Joanna) of Spruce Grove; 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers and three sisters.
Barney was born in Delia, Alberta on December 16, 1915. He was predeceased by his parents, one brother, two sisters and daughter-in-law Cora (Gordon) in 2004. Barney lived a very full and active life. He was a hard working man who in his earlier years was a business man, farmer and coal miner at the Atlas Coal Mine in East Coulee. He later worked for many years as a custodian at Greentree School and upon retirement continued to work a variety of small jobs. He loved nothing more than to take a swing around the dance floor or wait for the first snow fall of the year to get the brooms and shovels out. At his request there will no funeral service at this time. A memorial ceremony is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sunshine Lodge at 698 - 6th Ave. East, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y5 or to the charity of your choice.
BILLINGS, Albert
April 12, 1925 - December 11, 2006
Albert was born and raised in the Delia area where he farmed until interrupted by his service in the Navy during World War II, returning to farming once again. After a stroke in May 1987, “Diddy” resided at the Continuing Care Unit in Drumheller until he passed away. Albert was known for his generosity of his toffees and O’Henry chocolate bars. He was notorious for his sweet tooth. Albert was predeceased by his mother Ella and father William, brothers; Stanley, George, Arnold, Donnie, sisters; Jessie and Gladys. Albert is survived by his brothers; Russell (Lil), Jim (Sonja), Gerald (Anne), sisters-in-law Eileen and Hazel as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A Service of Remembrance will be held on Friday, December 15, 2006 at 2:00 pm at Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel, Drumheller, Alberta. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Albert to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Drumheller Continuing Care, 351-9th Street NW, Drumheller, Alberta, T0J 0Y0, or a charity of one’s choice. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements
HOFFMAN, Marcia Gwen (nee Galicia)
Marcia Gwen Hoffmann, passed away into the presence of our Lord, on December 6th, 2006, at the age of 61. She is survived by her 3 sons and daughters-in-law, Christopher and Josephine of Calgary, Tracy & Cheri of Lacombe and Shane and Heather also of Calgary. Also left behind are eight grandchildren-Ashley, Kirstyn, Victoria, Michelle, Samantha, Joshua, Christina and Harry, and one great grandchild – Corbin (Ashley). Marcia is also survived by her mother, Myrtle Osmond of Bowden, and sisters and brothers -- Bonnie, Randy, Tyler, Trudy, Shelley, Karen and Allison, and many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Oscar Galicia, ex-husband, Harry Hoffmann, grandson Isaac Pedro Pascu-Hoffmann, and grand daughter Virginia Pastor-Hoffmann. Marcia really enjoyed her last few years working at the Bargain Shop in Blairmore, where she touched many people with her brand of love. Her many other joys in life, other than her children and grandkids, were her cats, books and love of music. Marcia had many other talents, but will be forever remembered for the cheer she brought to everyone she came in contact with. Funeral services will be held Sunday, December 17th at 2 p.m. at Thornhill Baptist Church, Located at 128 Tache Ave. NW, Calgary, and a memorial service will be held in the Crowsnest Pass in January. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Rosedale Hospice, 920 -7A Street N.W. CALGARY, ALBERTA T2M 3J3
STONELL, Margery Grace
1918 - 2006
Margery Grace (Hazell) Stonell passed away suddenly on the morning of December 4, 2006. She is survived by her brother, Herbert (Joan) Hazell and nephew, Bill (Susan) Hazell of Dauphin, Manitoba. She is also survived by her son, Bruce (Julie) Stonell of Red Deer, Alberta; granddaughter, Melanie (Ryan) Poole of Bonnyville, Alberta; grandson, Gary Stonell of Vancouver, B.C.; granddaughter, Rachel Stonell of Calgary, Alberta; and by a great-niece, Kristan; great-nephew, Charles, both of Dauphin, and three great-grandchildren; Matthew, Trace and Anna of Bonnyville, Alberta.
Grace was born June 17, 1918 in Dauphin, Manitoba, the eldest of two children of Herbert and Margery Hazell. As a young woman, she played the organ at her home parish of St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral for 14 years. Upon moving to Red Deer, in 1951, she played the organ and was mistress of the St. Luke’s Anglican Church Junior Choir until she left Red Deer, for Drumheller, in 1959. In Drumheller, Grace did the accounting for Jakey’s Auto Service until 1968, then began working in the Town of Drumheller office, retiring in 1983. Following her retirement, she spent several years as manager of Baesen Memorials. Grace will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Grace has requested there not be a memorial service. Her ashes will be interred at the Drumheller Municipal Cemetery.
VOLNEY, Anne Laura
September 21, 1930 - December 4, 2006
Anne Volney, beloved wife of John Volney and mother of Terry (Linda) and Allan (Delphine), and grandmother of Teresa, Candice and Jason, passed away after a long illness, in the Drumheller Health Centre. Anne is also survived by her brother, Dan (Paula) and sister Martha (Jim). A memorial service is going to be held on January 6, 2007. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, Suite 1010, 10017 - Jasper Ave., Edmonton, AB, phone 1-780-414-0070. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Drumheller Health Centre for their great passion and care. Funeral services provided by Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Home, 823-2666.
THOMPSON, Shirley Harriet
1926 - 2006
Shirley Thompson of Delia, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the Drumheller Health Centre on November 29, 2006, with her loving family by her side, after a courageous battle with cancer.
She leaves to mourn her loving husband of 56 years, Charlie Thompson, 5 children; Marian (Patrick) Hemsing, Carol (David) Sisley, Susan Hemsing, Kelly (Elizabeth) Thompson, and Harry Thompson. Shirley also leaves 15 grandchildren; Paul, Kayne, Crissy, Steven, Christa, Kenn, Yvonne, Jeff, Jordi, Jeremy, Kenton, Terry, David, Faye-Ann, Tracy, Valina and 14 great grandchildren. Shirley was predeceased by her father, Harry Evans, mother, Nina Evans, sisters; Evelyn and Audria, brother John, son in law Jim Hemsing, granddaughter Angela Hemsing, sisters in law; Beulah DeGiano and Lois Thompson, brother in law, Rex Thompson, father and mother in law, Glenn and Lotta Thompson.
Shirley was born November 27, 1926 in Vancouver, BC. She lived in various places such as Carbon, Drumheller and Powell River, while she attended school. In March 1950, she married Charles and began her farm life, where she remained for the next 55 years. In December 2005, they moved off the farm and into Delia. Shirley enjoyed gardening, crafts, and sewing. She was very proud of her family. She was active in the Victor Community and was a Royal Purple member for 35 years. Shirley requested that her body be donated to the University of Alberta, Division of Anatomy for Medical Education. A Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at 2:00 pm at the Delia Community Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Shirley, to the Drumheller Health Centre, 351-9th Street NW, Drumheller, AB, T0J 0Y1 or to a charity of one’s choice. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements.
THRUSH, Garth Edgar
Garth Edgar Thrush, resident of Weyburn, SK, formerly of Fort St. John, B.C., passed away on November 21, 2006 at 54 years of age. A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 2, 2006 at 11 a.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall, Fort St. John, B.C. Expressions of sympathy, in memory of Garth, may be made by way of donation, to the B.C. Heart and Stroke Foundation, 1212 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6H 3V2.
