- Alberta, Canada, Marriages Index, 1898-1944 -
- Alberta, Newspaper BMD Index, 1889-2012 -
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ELLIOT -- Roland John November 21, 1944 - February 14, 2008
Rolly passed away unexpectedly in his sleep, at home in Lillooet, B.C. He was the youngest of five children born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan to Gordon and Jane Elliot. He completed high school in Drumheller. A proud truck driver across Canada and the States for over twenty years. Even after his stroke, his dream was to drive eighteen wheelers when he spotted them. Rolly was a devoted son, brother, husband and father. He was predeceased by his parents Gordon and Jane Elliot, sister Evaline, brother Charles, ex wife Betty, stepson Gordon Heigh. Rolly is survived by his loving wife Darlene (Friesen) her adult children, two sons, Jody Elliot, Quinten (Darlene) Elliot, granddaughters Susan and Sidney, step daughter Rosalind Heigh and five children, Sister Audrey (Ron) Russell, Sister Gwen (Lyle) Nickason, brother-in-law Stan Riley, sister-in-law Pat Elliot, many nieces, nephews and friends. A celebration of Rolly’s life was held at the Elks Hall Lillooet, his ashes also reside in Lillooet. Rolly will be greatly missed by family and friends. Rolly will be greatly missed by family and friends. Donations in his memory to Lillooet District Hospital, Lillooet BC V0K 1V0. Diabetes or heart associations.
WOOD -- Wendy Ann - August 1, 2008
Wendy Ann Wood of Carbon, Alberta passed away in Drumheller on August 1, 2008 at the age of 61 years. Wendy is survived by her Husband of 42 years, Terry; Mother, Winnifred; Mother-In-Law Joyce; Daughter Pamela, Son-in-Law David, Granddaughter Nichole; son David and grandchildren Christopher and Heather; Sister Charlene; Brother Wayne and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A memorial service will be held at Courtney Winter’s Funeral Chapel, on Wednesday, August 6 at 1:00 p.m. (199 – 2 Street West, Drumheller Alberta). In memory of Wendy, contributions can be made to the Alberta Foster Parent Association, Suite 102, 9622 – 42 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 5Y4 or to the Tom Baker Cancer Centre.
ROPAS (nee Stanko) Rose Mary
Mrs. Rose Mary Ropas, a longtime resident of the Drumheller Valley passed away at the Continuing Care in Drumheller on August 9, 2008 at the age of 85 years. Rose was born to Martin and Frances Stanko on August 22, 1922 in the Drumheller Valley. Rose took her schooling in Drumheller, and on April 20, 1940 she married Joe Ropas. She worked at the Nursing Home on the Housing staff from 1962 to 1987 upon her retirement. She was predeceased by her husband Joe in 1989, her sisters Pauline in 1929 and Sophie in 2007. Rose is survived by her four children; son Joseph (Marilyn) of Trail, B.C., daughters Tilly (Robert) Llewellyn of Drumheller, June (Det) Holesek of Creston, B.C., Trudy Owen of Red Deer, sister Mary Karliner of Shemainus, B.C., brothers Tom (Marina) Stanko of Duncan, B.C., Ed (Nita) Stanko of Duncan, B.C., six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 11 a.m. from Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Chapel. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to S.T.A.R.S.
SMITH -- William (Billy)
William Smith (Billy) passed away on August 4, 2008 at the age of 73. He leaves to cherish his memory his long time friend Mary Vogel, two brothers and four sisters. He had numerous nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. He will sadly be missed at the Continuing Care Unit in Drumheller. A private family service will be held at a later date.
BREAKEY (Pete) Frank Keam April 9, 1918 – July 10, 2008
On July 10, at 1:00 a.m. Frank (Pete) Keam Breakey peacefully passed away at 90 years of age. He is survived by his three daughters, Bonnie (Childs), Beverly (Deschenes), and Brenda (Johnson). He was predeceased by his wife Edith (Agnew) of 53 years of marriage and his brother Al. Pete was born in Toronto, Ontario and received his education in Napinka, Manitoba. He farmed in Manitoba and later moved to Edmonton, Alberta in 1952 to raise his family and became a successful realtor/businessman. In 2001, he retired to Drumheller, Alberta. Pete served in World War II as a Company Sergeant-Major with the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders. He was a highly decorated war hero with his highest award being the DCM (Distinguished Conduct Medal for Bravery) received for his role in the Battle of Normandy. He was a deeply devoted man who always put his family first and cared for his wife tirelessly until her death. He will be lovingly remembered by Bonnie, Beverly and Brenda and their respective families and friends. The family would like to thank the continuing care staff at the Drumheller Health Centre for taking such good care of our Dad in the later stages of his dementia. We would also like to thank Charolotte Chernoff for all the kindness, teas, and baking, but most of all the time she spent with him. A Celebration of Pete’s Life will be held at Drumheller United Church, 3 Avenue and 3 Street, Drumheller, AB on Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada Museum, Minto Armoury, 969 St. Matthews Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0J7 or Alzheimer Society of Alberta & NWT, 10531 – Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5H 4K1. FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM. Telephone -- 403-297-0888. Honoured Provider of Dignity Memorial.
KIMMELRaymond Fred November 8, 1927 - August 16, 2008
Ray was born in Acme, Alberta, the firstborn of seven siblings to Fred and Lydia Kimmel. He grew up on his parent’s farm near Three Hills and worked for farmers until he was 21. He then married and in 1948, moved to Drumheller, working for the CPR section, and the mine in East Coulee, while building his first farm. When the mine shut down in 1957, he moved with his family to the Brooks area and purchased ½ section of land. While working in the elevator in Millicent he was building up his second farm. When the elevator shut down he was finally a full time farmer. His first wife Charlotte passed away in 1981. He then married Lillian Schmidt and after 30 years, sold his second farm and moved to the Nightingale area, starting over, building yet another smaller farm of 5 acres. He was predeceased by his mother, father, brother Bob, sister Dorothy Viola, an infant son Kenneth Jerald in 1951, his first wife of 32 years, Charlotte, daughter Teresa Louise McQuaker in 1998, and daughter Donna Charmaine Walter in 1999. He is survived and sadly missed by his loving wife Lillian, of 27 years, three brothers, Gordon of Strathmore, Lloyd (Wally) of Camrose, Dennis (Rosemary) of Airdrie, one sister, Beatrice Schaffer of Bassano, three stepsons, Terry of Calgary, Bob (Lois) of Millicent, Darryl (Darlene) of Medicine Hat, two daughters and two sons, Bev (Rob) Callow of Bragg Creek, Nadine (Dave) Young of Penhold, Howard (June) of Magrath, and Harvey of Medicine Hat as well as many nieces and nephews, twelve grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren. He will be remembered as a hard working man full of compassion, patience, honesty and love for his wife Lillian especially, his family, his farm and animals. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at Lord Of All Lutheran Church (Strathmore) at 2:00 p.m.
POZZOLO -- Douglas Leonard November 24, 1957 - August 18, 2008
Services to be held at a later date.
SPENCER -- James (Jim) Ernest November 16, 1925 - August 12, 2008
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of James Ernest Spencer (Jim) on August 12, 2008 at the Agape Hospice, after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 82. Jim left us peacefully with his loving companion and caregiver Bonnie Baynes by his side. Jim was born and raised in Drumheller and joined the Navy at age 17, serving several tours of duty on the HMCS Royal Mount. He met June Schaffer Monbouquette in Sydney, Nova Scotia, while stationed in Halifax during World War ll. They were married in Calgary on March 1, 1946 and made their home in Drumheller until 1951 when they moved to Calgary. Jim and his wife moved to a ranch north of Cochrane in 1979 and moved back into Cochrane in 1992. Jim lost his wife in late 1998 after 53 years of marriage and continued to live in Cochrane until his passing. He was a master painter and decorator for over 40 years, 30 of those years owning his own business. He was also very adept at a variety of trades but excelled at wood working. He loved hunting and most of all his hunting dogs. He enjoyed his time spent with his friends at the Cochrane Legion and at various senior outings, going to Stage West, playing Crib and in typical Jim fashion, cracking jokes. He was a wonderful caring person who just loved life, his friends and family and made everyone laugh with his humor and quick wit. “Jim, you were a good man” and will be dearly missed. Jim was predeceased by his wife June, mother Mattie, father Ernie, and two sisters; Joan and Sena. He is survived by his son Donald Spencer (Cheryl), grandchildren Derek and Blaire, nephew Jim Clark (Kelly), niece Melody Sheddy (Ossie), niece Kathy Roth (Faron) and their daughter Sydney and numerous other relatives. A celebration of Jim’s life was held at the St. Andrew’s United Church, 128 - 1 St. E., in Cochrane, Ab on Monday, August 18 at 1:00 p.m. with a reception at the Cochrane Royal Canadian Legion. If friends so desire, memorial tributes can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society and also the Agape’ Hospice. Many thanks to the nurses and staff at the Foothills Hospital - Special Services Unit 46 for your loving care and the nurses and volunteers at the Agape Hospice, who made Jim’s final days as peaceful as possible. Your acts of kindness and exceptional care will be truly remembered and are greatly appreciated.
Farkas:Pearl Mary (nee Gecso) August 29, 1927 August 20, 2008
Pearl Mary Farkas (nee Gecso), resident of Carbon, Alberta passed away in the Drumheller Hospital on August 20, 2008. Pearl was born in Hungary on August 29, 1927. She emigrated to Canada with her parents and two sisters at a very young age. The Gecso family resided in Rosedale. Pearl became a Canadian citizen in 1948. On December 16, 1948 she married John Farkas and they then moved to Nelson B.C. where Pearl was a homemaker and also worked as a receptionist at the Nelson Clinic. Pearl’s relationship with John did not last and she returned to Alberta in 1985, residing in the Carbon area for the rest of her life. Pearl was predeceased by her parents, her two sisters (Elizabeth and Margaret), her husband John, her only child (a son who died as an infant), and her friend Bill Varga. Pearl is survived by her best friend Beatrice Pityne, her niece Johanne Gaetz, her god-child Mary Heinzlmeir and members of Bill Varga’s family including his niece Jolan Varga-Balazs and her two children. Pearl was a very good cook and although injured in an accident in December 2005 she still managed to maintain her independence until just before her passing. Pearl was a wonderful, kind and considerate lady. She was also a very private person, so if any of the “facts” herein are inaccurate, the author begs Pearl’s forgiveness. At Pearl’s request there will be no funeral. Pearl will be laid to rest in the Carbon cemetery. Thank-you to the staff at the Drumheller Hospital for their care and kindness.
Morse -- Ronald Newell
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Newell Morse on August 25, 2008. He was predeceased by his son Fred Jr., father Fred Sr., and mother Emerteen. Left to mourn his loss are Barb, Wayne, Christie (Will) and Scott McKay. Rod, Cathy, Courtney and Ricky Morse. Marilyn, Jim, Bradley and Rick Anderson. Karen, Tom, Brittany, Kaitlin, Matthew and Mitchell Roth. Also great grandchildren Kate and Jacob. During his illness his humour and strength were great supports for his family. A special thank you to all the nurses and staff of Unit 31 at the Red Deer Regional Hospital for the excellent care he received. A celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, August 30th at 2:00 p.m. at the Courtney Winters Funeral Home in Drumheller, Alberta. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
POZZOLO -- Douglas Leonard November 24, 1957 - August 18, 2008
Doug is survived by his wife of 23 years, Debbie. Also his two children, Christopher McHardy Pozzolo and Jeanne Fehr, two grandchildren, Johnathan and Carlie. His mother Shirley and Bill Pozzolo. Four brothers and one sister - Tom (Gale), Donald (Donna), Joe (Kelley), Ken (Gwen) and Colleen (Ray). Predeceased by his father, Donald Joseph Pozzolo and grandparents. Also survived by too many nieces and nephews and aunts and uncles to name. Doug was born and raised in Drumheller. Doug spent two years in the Canadian Armed Forces. He was employed at the Drumheller Correctional Institute. He was also employed as a Security Officer at the Drumheller Hospital at the time of his passing. His interests included golf, baseball, and football. He also had a keen interest in reading and hoped someday to write a novel. A celebration of his life was held Tuesday, August 26, 2008.
VASSELIN -- Lawrence
A very special husband and father, Lawrence Vasselin, finished his earthly journey and began his heavenly one on August 14, 2008 after a 2 1/2 year struggle with complications from a broken hip. Lawrence was born in Medicine Hat, Alberta on February 8, 1933 and grew up on a farm at Bow Island with his parents Lillian and Arthur Vasselin and older siblings Henry, Ronald, Russell and younger sister Phyllis. Lawrence accepted the Lord at the age of 8 years while attending a local Bible Camp. He and his family moved to Three Hills in 1948 where he attended Prairie High School, graduating in 1951. Lawrence worked at Kirk’s Sheet Metal before moving to Calgary in 1953 where he worked as an accountant with Calgary Packers. Jully 22, 1955 Lawrence married Margaret Gray from Carmangay, Alberta. In the spring of 1957, they moved to a farm south of Three Hills. Patsy Marie was born in 1959 and their son Lawrence Richard in 1961. In 1964, they moved three miles east to their own farm where they resided until his passing. Lawrence’s love for His Savior, his family, friends, neighbours and the “land” defined the man that we will always cherish. Lawrence will be remembered by his loving wife Margaret, Pat (Earl) Koch and Richard (Melodie) Vasselin and six grandchildren, Joelle, Jordan, Jennifer and Joyana Koch and Kyle and Kathleen Vasselin. He is survived by Ronald (Velma) Vasselin, Russell (Mary) Vasselin and Phyllis (Hans) Andersen, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Donations in memory of Lawrence may be made to S.T.A.R.S. or the charity of your choice.
BEFUS -- Henry April 28, 1919 - August 24, 2008
It is with much sadness that the family of Henry Befus announce his passing. Henry was born in Calgary, Alberta and shortly thereafter along with his parents and siblings moved to Leader, Saskatchewan, then back to Cochrane, Ab., then back to Calgary, Ab. and finally in 1928 moved to Rumsey-Scollard area where he attended Thompson School and later took up farming with his parents until 1952. When his parents retired to Calgary he accompanied them and selflessly cared for them until their passing. Henry became a suitcase farmer and farmed in the Swalwell and Rockyford areas for a number of years. During this time he made many lasting friends. Henry was well respected not only as an individual, but as a sportsman. Henry had a keen interest in curling, baseball and football. He retained this interest until his passing. Henry curled in the Big Valley, Rumsey and Calgary area for many year and followed curling on T.V. in the later years with avid interest. In 1991 Henry moved the Murdock Manor in Calgary and there he enjoyed playing crib, and visiting. Henry also loved going to Stampede Park to the races and there he renewed acquaintances with many friends from the Rumsey area. Henry is survived by his much loved sister, Freida Potter, brother-in-law Hugh Watts of Drumheller, Alberta. Henry is also survived by eight nieces, four nephews and 20 great nieces and nephews. Henry was predeceased by his brother Peter, sisters and brothers-in-law, Katherine and Ralph Cameron, Pauline and Ulrich Schultheiss, and sister Lydia Watts. Henry kept in close touch with all of us through visits and in later years phone calls. He was always interested in all aspects of his family’s lives. We will miss him more than words can say, but we are also grateful that he had a long good life. He never spent any days in the hospital and passed away quietly in his apartment in Calgary. Up until a week before his passing he and Frieda talked on the phone every Sunday morning. He was a quiet gentle man and will be sorely missed by all of us who had the good fortune to have had him as a brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. We have wonderful memories of a life well lived. In accordance with Henry’s wished there will be no formal funeral service and burial will take place at Queen’s park Cemetery, Calgary, Alberta at a later date. If friends so wish memorial donations may be forwarded to the Canadian Diabetes Association, No. 204, 2323 - 32 Ave. N.E., Calgary, Alberta, T2E 6Z3 or a charity of your choice. Forward condolences to www.mcinnisandholloway.com.
Eskeland -- Sharon Louanne
Eskeland, Sharon Louanne passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family at the Peter Lougheed Hospital in Calgary on September 1, 2008. Sharon was born in Grande Prairie on February 24, 1941. Her family moved several times throughout her childhood to Calgary, Prince Albert, Edmonton, and finally settling in Drumheller where Sharon completed her High School Diploma. After graduation, Sharon stayed in Drumheller to work as a court stenographer for the Provincial Court House. She married Ed Eskeland in 1961 and moved to the family farm in the Churchill area. In addition to being a farm wife and excellent bookkeeper for two family companies, Sharon enjoyed working casually for the Royal Tyrrell Museum, was involved was involved with the Knox United Church, painted, and was an avid bird-watcher and nature lover. Sharon was devoted to her family and friends, and always made time for them no matter how busy her day. Sharon was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Pat Davies. She is lovingly remembered and missed by her husband Ed Eskeland; her children and grandchildren Joanne (Jim) Hodgson, Eric, Coleman, Chrissy Hodgson; John (Ilona), Ben and Jenn; Jason; Jim (Julie), Owen and Elena; Kelly (Bob); her sister Maureen (Art) Russell; her brother Jim (Juanita) Davies; her sister-in-law Ella (Art) Hoehne, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society
FULLERTON -- Fred Stanley March 9, 1921 - August 24, 2008
It is with great sadness that we share our news of the passing of a great man, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, Fred Fullerton on Sunday, August 24, 2008 after a lengthy illness. He was a great human being, quick witted, full of laughter and always ready to share a story. He is survived by his loving wife, Lorna, his son Stan (Tracy) Fullerton, his daughter Jean (Tom) Gould, five grandchildren, Ben, Spencer, Meghan, Sara and Shea, one sister, Elizabeth Stuart, one brother-in-law, Al McKenzie, and numerous nephews and nieces. Many, many thanks to Dr. Miller and the wonderful kind nurses who took such good care of Fred and his family during a very difficult time. A “Farewell to Fred” will be held on Saturday, September 6, at 2:00 p.m. at the Pioneer Trail Seniors Centre, for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Cancer Society would be greatly welcomed.
McAuliffe -- Anne Francis
Anne Francis McAuliffe passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2008 in the Red Deer hospital at the age of 91. Anne was predeceased by her husband Tom, July 25, 1993, their son Jerry May 24, 1957, her parents John and Jean Marshall, brothers Mike and Art, sisters Violet and Jean and God-son Brian Robertson. She is survived by her brother Carl (Florence), her sisters Mary Long, Edith Larson, Irene McKay, Kay Robertson, Lorraine (Ken) Cooney, Josie Roline, Elsie Limpert and sister in law Maude Marshall. She is also survived by seven God- children, Jim Hunter, Stan Marshall, Gail Tesorio, Patty Blocksom, Vicky Davidson, David Limpert, Mary Ellen Herzog as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Anne was born June 30, 1917 in Delia, Alberta. She attended George Town school for grades 1-8 and Delia grades 8-11. She worked at the farmers store in Delia prior to her marriage on November 16, 1938. Their son Jerry was born on September 2, 1939. Tom and Anne moved to Spragge, Ontario in 1957 returning home to Delia in 1981. They enjoyed living in Alberta again and being close to family and friends. In October of 2004 Anne took up residence at the Acadia Lodge. She spent many happy days there. Anne was a lifetime member of the CWL. She will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her. Prayer service was held Monday September 1, 7:00 pm at St. Georges Catholic Church in Hanna. Funeral Mass was held Tuesday September 2 at 11 :OO A.M. from St. Georges Catholic Church with interment following in the Delia cemetery. Luncheon was served in the Delia community Hall following the interment. Donations may be made in Anne’s memory to either the Sunshine Club c/o Acadia Lodge Box 160, Hanna, Ab, TOJ IPO or to charity of Donor’s choice. Cathy Watts of Heartland Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements. (403-854-2758).
