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Beverly Anne Matthews
1942-2011
The following is the eulogy for Beverly Anne Matthews as delivered by her husband, Ken Matthews:
Beverly Anne Matthews was born on Dec 24, 1942 in Petrolia, Ont., to Isabelle and Howard Burnley. She was the oldest of four children. The family moved to Sault St. Marie, Ont., where she lived until she moved back to live with her grandparents in the Camlachie area. She completed her high school in Forest.
Bev played basketball and competed in track and field in high school and was a member of the cheerleaders. She went on to get her RNA training after high school.
Bev and I met in high school and were married Feb. 22, 1963. We had three children: Jane, Steven and Craig.
In 1971 we moved to High Prairie and have lived here ever since.
Bev was well-known in the area as she changed careers and jobs a few times over the years. Some of these include: The original doctors clinic, J.B. Wood Nursing Home, Robinsons Store, Leonarda’s Beauty Salon, the Super A deli, TD Bank, Macleods True Value Hardware and The Associate Clinic. I know I have missed some others. She also had two businesses: Bev’s Beauty Salon and Flowers ‘n’ Things.
Bev curled and bowled for a number of years and she was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Bev decided to retire at the end of 2008; however, in February 2009, after we returned from a holiday in South Carolina, she was diagnosed with cancer which she fought until Aug. 29.
Bev battled cancer the same way she lived life, with optimism, determination, humour and never complained. She came up with the idea for a fundraiser and Bev’s Brainwave was started and with the help of many, was very successful.
She was known for her sense of humour and her direct approach in dealing with problems and people. This included the many nurses at the hospital right up until the last few days. Many apologized for hurting her when she was moved; her response was “No you’re not” followed by a laugh and smile.
Bev loved animals - especially dogs. The house always had animals, some strays, some shipped from different locations in the USA. You never knew when a new one would arrive. I received at least one dog for my birthday and a couple for Christmases. The last one was a boxer for Christmas in 2008. The dog had puppies when Bev was ill but she insisted in helping to feed the pups even though she found it difficult to walk. She felt we should keep two of the pups ... that didn’t happen! She always had 2-3 dogs on her lap in the house and in bed.
Bev enjoyed travel and especially holidays in Hawaii. But she made one trip in the summer of 1973 that she really was happy when it was over. She loaded up Jane, Steven and Craig in the car and drove home to Ontario to visit. She never made that trip again.
Bev loved her family and was proud of all of them. She enjoyed their accomplishments. Jane was her daughter, business partner and best friend.
Bev’s grandchildren were her pride and joy and she loved them all although the first granddaughter spent more time with Bev than the others.
Brandyn remembers the trips for skateboard equipment and skateboard parks in Grande Prairie.
Jaret remembers Bev racing other cars from one traffic light to the next in Edmonton.
Shaylan had Bev take her to have her nose pierced against her mom and dad’s wishes.
Amy remembers when Bev took her, her sister and brothers to Ontario to a family reunion.
Ryan and Justin remember staying overnight with Bev, sitting on her knee trying to name all of the dogs.
Bev is survived by: her husband, Ken Matthews; her children Jane (Blair) Kuchuk), Steven Matthews and former daughter-in-law Tammy; Craig (Lori) Matthews; grandchildren Brandyn, Jaret, Shaylan and Amy Kuchuk, and Ryan and Justin Matthews; sisters Diana (Gord) Lethbridge, Sally (Sherwood) Herriman, brother Bill Burnley; aunt Leone Wellington; sister-in-law Helen Matthews and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Finally, I will close with a poem that I think Bev would say to all of you.
When I am gone, release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do.
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears
But be thankful we had so many good years.
I gave you my love, and you can only guess
How much you’ve given me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you have shown
But now it is time I traveled on alone.
So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.
I won’t be far away for life goes on,
And if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near,
And if you listen with your heart you’ll hear,
All my love around you soft and clear,
And then, when you come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and a “Welcome Home!”
Gregery Marv McDermot
1980-2011
Gregery McDermott of Gunn, AB, passed away suddenly Sept. 3, 2011 at the age of 30 years.
Gregery was born Dec. 11, 1980. He was the youngest of four children born to Hugh and Carlotte McDermott.
He was a young man who truly lived life to the fullest. He was very much a dare devil adventurer; he did not have any worries or fear. Greg liked jumping his bike, going skydiving, racing his car, punching a bull in the face, and riding his unbroken horses. He was quite the prankster and enjoyed scaring everyone.
Gregery was a social butterfly who always enjoyed family functions and meeting new people. He also had and made many friends.
In his short life, Gregery has done more and covered more area than most of us who have lived longer lives.
Greg was predeceased by his father in 2003.
He will be sadly missed by his loving family and many dear friends.
A memorial service was held on Sept. 15 at 2 p.m. at Rose Garden Chapel with Pastor Ben Kellert officiating.
George Ostermeier
1934-2011
We are gathered here today as family and friends to grieve the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor: George Ostermeier, who was a man very special to all of us.
George was born Sept. 10, 1934 and passed away June 30, 2011 at the age of 76 years.
He was a respected person, who lived his life in a way that set an example for others. Today, as we say our final good-bye, it is also a time to honour, acknowledge and praise his many achievements.
George was born in Tegernbach Germany in 1934 and immigrated to Canada in 1960 with a single suitcase in hand and $40 in his pocket. Over the next 50 years he became a self-made businessman and an involved community and church member. His 76 years of life were active, purposeful and enjoyed.
He married his wife, Almagene, in 1963 and was married to her for 48 years. They raised five children together: Brian, Roy, Cora, Greg and Roger.
George was proud and devoted to his family. He raised his children in strong Catholic faith and strong work ethic.
On his land south of High Prairie where he lived, George did mixed farming and beekeeping where he spent many enjoyable hours working side by side with his wife, children and extended family on the farm and in his businesses.
George was an active parish member of St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church and was the president of the parish council for 15 years, a constant volunteer, fundraiser and choir member. He proudly stood as a representative and voice of Catholic schools as a board trustee for 25 years. His faith and devotions to the church were loyal and longstanding.
George worked for 30 years at the High Prairie Hospital in management as the executive of housekeeping and laundry facilities were he was he was popular and well-liked for his fairness and understanding.
In 1982, George and his wife, Gene, bought the Joussard General Store. They traveled daily for 16 years to Joussard to manage the community business that included the post office, bus and bottle depots, and store itself. The time he spent at Joussard was the beginning of his business career where he loved the work and the people.
After tying to retire for a couple years ... in the year 2000 and at the age of 65, George built O’s Ice Cream Store, the thriving downtown business that became his pride and joy. He served the community with a hard work ethic and humble devotion not only to the business but the people of High Prairie that will never be forgotten. George was a very good man and was admired for his kindness, wisdom, fairness, honesty, service and trustworthiness.
George was also known for his friendliness, genuine interest in others and straightforward manner. Among other things George was a wild fur buyer and avid sports fan whose heart and pride was never very far from his homeland of Germany.
We, as a family, have great trust that George is now resting and in the hands of God alongside his son, Roger, who predeceased him in 1997.
The passing of George will be a tremendous loss to our church, our community and especially his wife, Gene, and family.
George was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.
The passage of time will never really heal the loss of such a great man but we
will all carry on because we have to, and because George would want us to, and because we know the love, friendship, and guidance he gave to all of us will light our own paths out into the world.
May George be remembered with great respect and now rest in eternal peace.
The funeral for George was held July 6 at 2 p.m. at High Prairie St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Father Abraham Srambical officiating.
The eulogist was daughter Cora Ostermeier and the reader was daughter-in-law Tina Ostermeier.
Pallbearers were Gilbert Cusson, Archie Dupuis, John Kasnic, Greg Ostermeier, Maxwell Ostermeier and Roy Ostermeier. The Honourary pallbearer was Brian Ostermeier.
Interment followed in St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in High Prairie.
Mabel Delia Peacock
1921-2011
Mabel Delia Peacock, a resident of Pleasantview Lodge in High Prairie, passed away at the High Prairie Hospital Sept. 5, 2011, surrounded by her family, at the age of 89 years.
Mabel was born in High Prairie Oct. 8, 1921 to Michael and Cora Burger.
She married George Peacock Nov. 29, 1941. They raised their family on their farm north of High Prairie where she loved to grow a vegetable garden and flowers. She did hours of canning and cooking, and working in fields. Mabel also loved to knit socks and sweaters for her family.
After her husband George passed away, Mabel obtained work in town. She was a cook at Uncle Nicky’s and a clerk at Robinson’s and SAAN Stores.
Mabel helped whenever she could, from working countless bingos for various local organizations, to serving on the executive for the High Prairie Golden Age Club.
She proudly shuttled her grandchildren to and from hockey practices, swimming lessons or whatever other club they happen to belong to.
Mabel will be loved and remembered by: her children Margaret (Myron) Karpa; Ruth (Lee) Denison; Stanley (Marion) Peacock; Shirley (Rudolf) Klatt; Barbara (Jim) Nelson; and Denise (Lyndon) Drefs; 17 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren; brother Steve Burger; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Mabel was predeceased by: her husband, George, on Dec. 6, 1979; her father, Michael Burger; her mother, Cora Burger; brothers Daniel, Thomas and Charlie; and one sister, Anne.
The funeral service was held at the United Church, High Prairie, Sept. 9 with interment at the Town of High Prairie Cemetery.
Calvin E. Richter
1950-2011
Calvin E. Richter, beloved husband of Susan Richter of High Prairie, passed away following a brief illness on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at the age of 60 years.
Calvin was born in Empress, Alta. Dec. 10, 1950. He was raised in Buffalo, Alta. and Bassano, Alta. He graduated school in 1968 and went to work for Alberta Power in Drumheller, Alta. He worked in various places ending up in High Prairie where he met and married Susan. Susan and Calvin lived in Slave Lake, Grande Centre and then finally moved back to High Prairie to take up farming. This is where he resided until the time of his death.
Calvin enjoyed skiing trips with his family when the boys were young and in his later years enjoyed numerous cruises and trips to Las Vegas with his wife. He will be remembered for his keen sense of humor and his exceptional pride in farming.
Besides his wife, Susan, he is also survived by two sons, Dean (Cindy) Richter of Calgary and Kevin of Edmonton; parents, Bernice and Michael of Medicine Hat; three sisters, Sharron (Don) of Redcliff, Coreen (James) Sheardown of Medicine Hat and Vicki Fode of Redcliff as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Calvin was predeceased by his in-laws, Carson and Anne Chemerenski and one brother, Darcy.
A celebration of Calvin’s life was held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel in Medicine Hat, Alta. Jan. 13 at 1 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Shane Andrus officiating.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Calvin’s name may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 102 Crestwood Square One, 1865 Dunmore Road S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1Z 1Z8 or to the charity of your choice.
Wesley Snow
1963-2011
Wesley Glen Snow, a long-time resident of High Prairie, passed away Oct. 7, 2011 in High Prairie at the age of 48 years.
Wesley was born July 30, 1963 at High Prairie. He loved music and the outdoors. Wesley is survived by: his wife, Barbara Ann Scott; daughter Samantha Snow; mother Rose Snow; sister Bonnie (Stan) Bell; brother David (Patricia) Snow; sister Robbie Snow; sister Nadeen (Ed) Ribar; and brother Wayne Snow (Cora Ferguson).
The funeral for Wesley Snow will be held Friday, Oct. 21, 2011 at the downtown Elks Hall in High Prairie at 2 p.m.
Norman Stafford
1933-2011
Norman Stafford passed away peacefully Jan. 12, 2011, after an extended battle with cancer at the age of 77 years.
Norman, who was born Feb. 17, 1933, is survived by: his wife, Nancy; his sons, Brent, David and Dale; and his grandchildren Joe, Ashley and Sarah; and his sister, Doreen. He will always be remembered as a hard-working, loving, considerate, quick-witted family man. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
The Stafford family send a heartfelt thank-you to the people who helped during the difficult years.
A family only service was held in Edmonton Jan. 13 in accordance with Norman’s wishes.
Anna (Johansson) Polard
1913 - 2003
Anna Margarita (Johansson) Polard was born on Dec. 17, 1913 in Sweden and passed away on Dec. 4, 2003 at the age of 90 years.
Her family immigrated to Canada when she was 13 years old. They lived in Deer Ridge, Sask. where she met and married her first husband, Algot Johansson. She had five sons: Arne, Klas, Gunnar, Einar and Sven.
In 1947 they moved to High Prairie. In 1968 she lost Algot after a lengthy illness.
In 1969 she married Frank Polard and they did a lot of traveling and fishing until his passing.
Anna leaves behind to mourn her loss her four boys; Arne (Charlene), Klas (Laura), Gunnar (Dorothy) and Sven (Connie); 23 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by: her first husband, Algot, in 1968; her son, Einer, in 1980 at the age of 38 years; her second husband, Frank, in 1982; and her great- grandson, Travis Quartly, in 1999 at the age of 6 ½ years.
The funeral was held at the High Prairie United Church on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. with Rev. Sharon McRann officiating. The eulogist was Albert Gannon and the pianist Marilyn Stewart. Pallbearers were her grandsons Larry Johansson, John Johansson, Lyle Johansson, Vernon Johansson, Ronnie Johansson and Darryl Reed.
Interment followed in St. Mark's Anglican Cemetery in High Prairie.
