- Alberta, Canada, Marriages Index, 1898-1944 -
- Alberta, Newspaper BMD Index, 1889-2012 -
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ROWE -- Hilda (Klassen)
Hilda went “Home” November 26, 2007 at the age of 72 years. She was born June 17, 1935. She leaves many family members who miss her. Her sons Robert Rowe of Calgary, AB, Michael (Darlene) Rowe of Red Deer, AB; granddaughters Tanya (Lee) Gansauge of North Battleford, SK and Andrea (Chris) Olsen of Hanna, AB; great granddaughter Ava Gansauge; great grandsons Cole and Owen Olsen; brother-in-law John (Della) Rowe. Her siblings, brother Henry (Katie) Klassen of Drumheller; sisters Herta Doerksen of Abbotsford, B.C., Martha Dyck of Coaldale, AB, Helen (Jake) Siemens of Olds, AB, Beth Siemens of Drumheller, AB. Also missed by numerous nieces and nephews. Hilda was predeceased by her husband Harvey in October, 2000. Donations in her memory may be made to the Salvation Army or the charity of your choice.
VICKERS -- Bruce Wilson
Bruce Wilson Vickers passed away peacefully at the Drumheller continuing Care on December 13, 2007. Bruce was born in Drumheller on September 28, 1913. He was the third male born in the Valley, where he lived his entire life. He was predeceased by his parents; sister Margaret; loving wife Sina in 2000; and son Doug in 1993. Left to mourn his passing are his brother Blake; his sons Don (Kathy), Rob (Linda) and Rick; plus eleven grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bruce worked for 22 years with his father in the family business, N.B. Vickers Limited, and then opened his own grocery store in 1952 under the name Bruce’s Groceteria. In 1968 he expanded and moved to the Valley Plaza under the name Vickers Thriftway until he retired in 1982. During his years in business he was known for his generosity to countless families in time of need. Bruce was a member of the Elks Club as well as the Symbol Lodge of which he was a member for 61 years. Bruce enjoyed most sports, participating mainly in baseball and curling. He was especially proud of being the President of the Drumheller Miners Hockey Club when they won the Allan Cup in 1965-66. Bruce and Sina enjoyed travelling with friends or family to many different countries. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Doctor Maseka and the wonderful nursing staff at the Continuing Care who so compassionately cared for him. Also, a special thank you to his many friends who called and visited. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Continuing Care Unit of the Drumheller Regional Health Complex or the charity of choice. Funeral Services were held at the Knox United Church in Drumheller on Tuesday, December 18, 2007 at 2:00 P.M.
MONTPETIT -- Gilbert (Gil) Cornelius
It is with great sadness, we announce the passing of Gilbert (Gil) Cornelius Montpetit. Born December 22, 1926 in Edmonton, AB., he passed away peacefully at home in Drumheller, December 15, 2007, just 7 days short of his 81st Birthday.
Remembering a Special Man
“Because of him our own small world will never be the same.
and our hearts are filled with love when people speak his name ...
But though his face may not be seen among us here today.
His love is felt in all the hearts
he changed along the way.”
He is survived by his loving wife Carol; his children and grandchildren -- Roxane (Keith) and Colter Russell; Yvette (Barry) Dee-Harvey; Jackie (Ed) Joshua and Brandon Caswell; Lance (Elaine) Carlie and Dayna Montpetit; Michele (Daniel) Quinn and Jobi Lucas; step-daughters Colleen (David) Mitchell and Jessica Pennington; Maureen (Thomas) Amelia, Stephan, and Monica Behl; and great granddaughter Elise Miller. Gilbert was predeceased by his parents Con and Marie Montpetit, sister Julie Montpetit, son-in-law Arthur Dee, and granddaughter Erin Pennington. A long time resident of Drumheller, Gil co-owned and managed Whitlock Lumber for a number of years, before starting Gil’s Investments, building and renovating many homes and businesses, throughout the valley. He touched the lives of everyone he did business with. As an active member of the community he served several terms as a school board trustee, was a lifetime member of the Kinsmen Club, and a committed blood donor. Gil was also a founding member of the Lake Shore Dwellers Association for Fish Lake, where many happy years were spent, always welcoming any and all who stopped by to enjoy the hospitality. Gil’s greatest joy in life was his family. His happy demeanor was evidenced by his constant whistling, as all who knew and loved him will fondly remember. He is gone but will never be forgotten.
A life well lived Gillie!!
At Gil’s request no service will be held, in honor of Gil’s love and enjoyment of birds and all wildlife, memorial donations may be made to -- Nature Conservancy Canada, 110 Eglinton Ave. W., Suite 400, Toronto, ON. M4R 1A1. IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) 1 Nicholas St. Suite 612, Ottawa, ON. K1N 7B7.
GALLAGHER -- DOUG
Born October 29, 1950 in Drumheller, Alberta. passed away on December 17, 2007 in Agassiz, B.C. He will be lovingly remembered by his son Bryan; daughter Anna Eliason; his sister Maryanne; brothers Ken, Bob, John, Marty; and their family members; and his friends. Doug enjoyed driving in the mountains and fishing in the lakes around the Agassiz area. A Memorial will be held at Ken Gallagher’s residence (#6-3397 Hastings Street, Port Coquitlam, V3B 4M8, phone #604-464-1319) on Saturday, January 5, 2008 between 2:00 PM 7:00 P.M. Donations may be made in Doug’s memory to the Canadian Diabetes Association.
GERSTMAN -- Lois Patricia August 12, 1947 - December 18, 2007
Born in Montreal, QC, formerly of Drumheller and most recently of Chilliwak, B.C., passed away suddenly at Golden, B.C. on December 18, 2007 at the age of 60 years. Lois will be lovingly remembered and missed dearly by her daughter Sabrina Slade of Red Deer, AB.; three grandchildren, John, Jessica and James; two brothers, Greg (Boalene) Gerstman of Calgary, AB. and Kim Gerstman of Chilliwak, B.C.; two nephews; numerous cousins and close friends. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Olga ‘Pat’ Gerstman. Cremation entrusted to Bower Funeral Services in Salmon Arm, B.C.
KIRBY -- Charles Bernard March 9, 1919 - December 20, 2007
Charles passed away from pneumonia at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary at the age of 88 years. He was predeceased by his sisters Wanda, Nancy, Ruth, and granddaughter Tanya. He will be lovingly remembered by Jean, his wife of 61 years; two daughters Shirley and Debbie; son Gerald (Beth); six grandchildren, Shane (Elizabeth) and Scott Kirby, Jeffrey (Tyla) and Sarah Thomsen, Kristie and Michelle Signer; great grandchildren Avin and Quin Thomsen; step-brothers Leonard, Don, Richard and their families; nieces Mary (Clarence) Janzen and Vicki (George) Bucholz and nephew Stephen Legg. Charles was raised northwest of Redland, Alberta and was actively involved in farming his entire life, with the exception of three years during World War II when he served with the RCAF overseas as an airframe mechanic. For extra income, he often drove truck during the winter delivering coal, grain, and livestock. He participated in the communities of Redland, Rockyford, and Rosebud in the Lion’s Club and the Royal Canadian Legion. Most recently he very much enjoyed the camaraderie of friends at the Royal Canadian Legion in Strathmore and the Colonel Belcher Senior’s Residence. Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at the Royal Canadian Legion #10, Strathmore, at 2:00 p.m. If desired, donations may be made directly to the Rockyford United Church or your local Food Bank.
Audy -- Robert, Earl
Earl Robert Audy, of Drumheller and beloved husband of Beverly Audy, passed away on January 4, 2008 at the age of 72 years. Bob was a son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, brother, in-law, nephew and amazing friend to many. Bob was born in Drumheller on September 23, 1935 to his loving parents Lewis Gaudet Audy and Eith Audy, he was the second youngest of 11 children. Bob and his wife Beverly were married on October 19, 1957. In their 50 years of marriage they had three children of their own, Bobby (Elena), Rodney (Robbie), Shelly (Gino) who graced them with six beautiful grandchildren. Bob is an ambassador of music, jokes, mischief and good times, he has taught us all how to love our families best. Bob’s roots were firmly planted in Drumheller, he owned and operated a construction business for 22 years with his wife and sons. We will remember you well, celebrate your life and miss you deeply! Funeral Services for Bob were held at Church of the Nazarene on Tuesday, January 8, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor James Clark officiating. Donations in Bob’s name may be made to Tom Baker Cancer Foundation or to the charity of one’s choice. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 823-2666.
BIDINOFF -- Leeta Violet
Leeta Violet Bidinoff passed away at the Drumheller Regional Heath Centre on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 after a short battle with cancer. Leeta was an exceptional person who shared her love, care and compassion with her family and many friends. she will be sorely missed by her remaining family; her son Bruce and wife Beverley Bidinoff of Osoyoos, BC and grandchildren, Dustin Wolchina of Drumheller and Gavin Wolchina of Calgary. she was predeceased by her daughter Judy and husband John. Funeral services for Leeta will be held from Courtney-Winter’s “Chapel in the Valley” on Friday, January 11, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor James Clark officiating. Donations in Leeta’s name may be made charity of ones’ choice. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements.
(403) 823-2666.
BOYKO -- Barry Lynn
Mr. Barry Boyko of Drumheller, passed away in Edmonton on Wednesday, December 26, 2007, at the age of 58 years. Barry is survived by his wife Lil; two sons Kelly (Sharla) of Drumheller and Jaime of Drumheller; and two grandchildren Talyn and Kya. Barry is also survived by his father Art Boyko of Camrose, brother Kevin Boyko (Michelle) of Camrose, and his sister Karin (Lee) Naslund of Camrose. Barry was predeceased by his mother Patricia, aunt Gussie, and uncle Henry. Prayer services will be held on Monday, January 7, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church. Divine Liturgy will be held on Tuesday, January 8, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church (5010-48A Ave., Camrose) with Rev. Vasyl Nykyforuk as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Camrose Cemetery. If friends so desire memorial contributions in memory of Barry’s mother, Pat Boyko, may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, or to a charity of your choice. To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com. Burgar Funeral Home Camrose in care of arrangements. (780) 672-2121
FRIELL -- BERYLE (NEE STOKALKO) March 13, 1946 – January 1, 2008
It is with deep sadness that we, the family, announce the sudden passing of Beryle Friell on January 1, 2008 at the Foothills Hospital, Calgary. Beryle was a loving and caring mother, daughter, sister and sister-in-law. Beryle spent most of her early years in Rosedale and after graduating from high school in Drumheller, attended Mount Royal College. Upon graduation, she proudly joined Shell Canada and was employed there for several years. After the birth of her son, Tom, in 1970, she dedicated her life to being a full-time mother prior to spending 18 years with the Calgary School Board as a much loved and respected teacher’s aide. In 2000, Beryle returned to the Drumheller Valley. Beryle was very proud to become an employee of D.A.R.T.S. and so enjoyed the interaction with the staff and individuals she served. In 2005, Beryle became a full-time caregiver to her mother. Beryle’s family will be forever grateful for her incredible efforts in caring for our mother. Beryle’s hard work in the yard yielded magnificent flower gardens for all to enjoy throughout the spring and summer months. Beryle will always be remembered for her giving nature and the little lady with the huge heart. Beryle is survived by her son, Tom Friell, Calgary, mother, Sarah Stokalko, brother Dale (Carol) Stokalko, Edmonton, sister, Sherry Shewman, Ft. Meyers, Fl., brother Tom (Patsy) Stokalko. “Auntie Beryle” will also be fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews and their families. A memorial service was held on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, 124, 430 – 6th Ave. S., Medicine Hat, AB. T1A 2S8 (Telephone (403) 527-0028). The family wishes to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of the Drumheller EMS, doctors and staff of the Drumheller Health Centre and Foothills Hospital Stroke Unit. Courntey-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 823-2666.
GROEN -- Peternella, Nellie
Nellie Groan, formerly of carbon, Alberta passed away peacefully at the Drumheller hospital at the age of 87 years. An interment for Nellie’s urn to follow at a later date. An announcement for the grave side service will be placed in the spring. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 823-2666.
HOUGHTON -- William Edward (Ted) October 5, 1914 – January 3, 2008.
Ted passed away peacefully on January 3, 2008 in Drumheller Continuing Care. He was born on October 5, 1914 in Paris, Ontario and moved to Alberta with his family in 1920. Ted was predeceased by his wife Clara of 55 years in 1991. He is also predeceased by two sisters, Freda Benusic and Stella Caweizel, and brother Gordon. Ted is survived by three brothers, Allan, Ivan and Vern. He is also survived by two sons, Jack (Lauretta), Nelson (Carol) and one daughter Dianne (Stan) Walker, six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and four great, great grandchildren. Ted farmed in the Rumsey area well into his 70’s. He supported all local functions in the area and was an avid donor to STARS. In 1996 Ted moved to Trochu and resided in the Senior Manors until 2002 when he moved into Drumheller Continuing Care. Funeral services were held from the Rumsey Community Center on January 8, 2008 at 11:00AM. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements (403) 823-2666. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to STARS.
