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Edith Kathleen (Kay) Forsberg
Edith Kathleen (Kay) Forsberg, late of Weyburn and formerly of Milestone and Riceton, went to be with her Lord on Friday, October 12, 2007. Predeceased by her parents, Wilfred and Mary Jones in 1974, her husband, Bill in 1963 and step children: Kay Edwards, Edna Oftebro, Hilda Large, Toiny Strayer, Walter Forsberg, Frank Forsberg, Ed Forsberg, Marie Anweiler, Helen Desautels and one brother, Clayton Jones. Kay leaves her son and daughter-in-law Bill and Susan of Tampa, Florida; grandson, Walter of Winnipeg, MB, granddaughter, Melissa of San Diego, California. Also, Willa-Mae Donald of Weyburn, a very close, long time friend of the family who spent many hours helping Kay in her last years. Also surviving Kay is her sister, Mrs. Betty Brown of Punnichy, and her children: Sidney (Marsha) Brown of Saskatoon, Eleanor (Wally) Beck of Edmonton, AB, and Sylvia Bartz of Nanaimo, BC; two nephews, Harry and Olga Forsberg of Weyburn and Karl and May Forsberg of Regina; two nieces, Flora VanWaeyenberge of Estevan, and Stella Mutter of Penticton, BC. Kay was born on July 21, 1917 at Raymore, where she grew up, attended school and learned the value of hard farm work and the benefits of true personal relationships. After completing her education, Kay worked in both Raymore and Wishart as a storekeeper, while always dreaming of attending nursing school. In 1952 she met and married Bill Forsberg, a widowed man of strong, yet loving character who had emigrated from Sweden to farm at Riceton many years earlier. Kay always felt close to Bill's children and never used the word 'step' in describing their relationship. They retired from farming and moved into the town of Riceton, in 1960. Following Bill's sudden death in 1963 Kay continued living in Riceton to raise their young son Bill Jr., but after his high school graduation she moved on to become a full time church housekeeper in Milestone. She grew to love Rev. Ewing Rae's family that she worked for, raising the two children as her own and seeing them grow up to become two beautiful young adults. Kay then moved to Weyburn to be employed with the Souris Valley Hospital until her retirement in 1982. She enjoyed her retirement life, writing poetry, taking trips to local and national historic places, playing bingo and being amongst her friends. Always being community minded and a lover of people allowed Kay to enjoy her church activities in the Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Riceton and the Zion Lutheran Church in Weyburn. These were important involvements to her. She was awarded in 1987 with a 2,000 hour volunteer pin for her work with the handicapped. Kay was president of the Weyburn Writers Guild and had many of her poems and writings published. Some of her other interests were collecting antiques, and assembling a unique prize-winning stamp and coin collection. She also ensured that stray animals in the community were housed and properly taken care of by working with the Weyburn Humane Society. In 2002 she was stricken with Parkinson's and later Alzheimer's which forced her to give up her independence and move into the Weyburn Special Care Home. Kay's funeral service was held at Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, on Saturday, October 20, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Visitation for family and friends was held on Friday, October 19, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at RD Family Funeral Chapel, Weyburn. Interment followed in the family section at Riceton Cemetery. The active pallbearers were, Sidney Brown, Bill Ferguson, Basil Forsberg, Terry Edwards, Sharon Lutz and Terry Creurer. Kay was a gardener and lover of flowers so they will be gratefully accepted, or family and friends so wishing may make donations in memory of Kay to the Weyburn Humane Society, Box 1062, Weyburn, SK S4H 2L3. Arrangements are entrusted to RD Family Funeral Chapel, Weyburn (848-0333 ~ 1-888-848-0333). If so desired, expressions of sympathy to the family may be sent to our website at www.rdfamilymemorialchapel.com "Our family serving your family"
Russell Raymond Knuth
Russell Raymond Knuth of Weyburn, passed away on Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at the age of 82 years. Russell will be lovingly remembered by his son, Martin (Norma) and daughter, Marcie; grandchildren, Garrett and Alison; sisters, Mildred of Manitoba, Ruby of British Columbia and Lyra of British Columbia. Russell was born April 8, 1925 in Oungre, to Emil and Florence Knuth (nee: Tompke). Russell was raised on a farm near Tribune and attended Salsbury and Slager schools. He had five sisters and two brothers plus a brother and sister deceased at infancy due to diphtheria. As a young lad, Russell helped his dad on the farm, was a threshing hand, drove a team of horses and delivered water to Tribune - sometimes working for $35 per month. Later, he decided to seek his fortune on the west coast. Jobs included working in a factory assembling toy wagons, a saw mill and later as a longshoreman loading grain onto boats. But his love for the farm brought him back to Saskatchewan. In 1951 he married Sybil West and they worked together to buy and operate the family farm. In July, 1952 his daughter, Marcia was born, followed by his son, Martin in 1955. In approx. 1951/52 life was made a lot easier when they received electricity and a few years later the convenience of the telephone. With the family growing, they built a new house in 1962, hauling every piece of building material from Regina, most of it in a one ton truck. They made 25 trips, all in the evenings after an already hard day of work, many trips lasting until 2:00 a.m. Russell and Sybil were active in the community with Russell being the Trustee of the Tribune Central School Board for 18 years. Russell continued farming through the good and hard years, always with renewed optimism for 'next year country'. He married Phyllis Bloor in 1985 and they sold the farm and retired to Weyburn in the late 80's. During his life, Russell made time to enjoy his love of music, mainly playing the piano and harmonica. His love of music started at 14 when he walked four miles to Tribune every Saturday to take piano lessons. He played most of the old favorites without music and enjoyed entertaining at Wheatland Seniors Centre and anytime for visitors. He also enjoyed traveling after retirement, to many parts of Western Canada and the USA. One trip to Vegas included playing a couple of tunes for Liberace, and the pictures of this are proudly displayed in his home. He also was a great dancer, especially the polka. He had a passion for cars, constantly washing and polishing to keep them gleaming. His love of gardening continued long after farming and he produced many vegetables, strawberries and raspberries, starting the day at 5:00 a.m. to get things done before the heat of the day set in. He fulfilled many of his dreams and passions over his lifetime, many of them will be talked about by his family, relatives and friends, who will dearly miss him. Funeral service was held Saturday, October 13 at 2:00 p.m. from Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Interment followed in Green Acres Memorial Gardens, Weyburn. Pallbearers were: Carl Lefrentz, Archie Mantei, Joe Rubin, Emil Knuth, Mervin Hoedel, and Keith Forbes. Donations may be made in memory of Russell to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn. (842-5432)
Maude Isabelle Grassick
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Maude Grassick, late of Parkway Lodge in Weyburn. She passed away on Oct. 15, 2007 at the age of 95 years. She was predeceased by her parents William and Martha Cunningham of Yellow Grass, sisters Kay Ulleland, Myrtle Cathcart, Molly Walden, a brother Ernie Cunningham and her husband, Wilfred (Bill) Grassick. She is survived by her son, Terry Chapman (Laura), grandchildren: Sharon Forseth (Edd), Murray Chapman and Lesley Chapman, great grandchildren Jeremy, Kevin and Jason Humeniuk. Maude was born in the Section House in Yellow Grass on May 30, 1912. The family eventually ended up in the farm yard behind the school, where she spent most of her childhood and teenage years. Her mother died when Maude was still quite young and many interesting stories were told of Bill Cunningham raising his four daughters and a son by himself. Maude married Bill Chapman and after Terry was born, moved to Galt, Ontario and later to Vancouver, BC. Many lifelong friendships were made at both places. In about 1951, Maude found herself single again and she was asked by her father to move back to Yellow Grass to look after him. About two years later she married Bill Grassick and the family moved to the farm. Her life since then was centered mainly in Yellow Grass and district. Maude was well known for sour cream and raisin pies taken to the rink and above all for a life-long love of clothes, hats, and fashion. Right up to about a month before she died, she wouldn't leave her room at Parkway unless everything she was wearing was properly color coordinated. Terry and Sharon recall waiting patiently for her in Pennington stores, not just in Regina, but in Vancouver and Galt (Cambridge), Ont. Maude and Bill took up an important role in helping raise Sharon at an early age, which was greatly appreciated by Terry and of course by Sharon. When age and health forced a move out of their home, Maude and Bill moved to the Hayes Haven nursing home in Indian head. Following Bill's death in 2002, Maude relocated to the Parkway Lodge in Weyburn where she lived until her passing. A funeral service was held at the Yellow Grass United Lutheran Church on Thursday, October 18, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Colette Baker officiating. Interment followed in Yellow Grass Cemetery. Donations in memory of Maude may be made to the Yellow Grass United Lutheran Church. Arrangements in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn. (842-6662)
William Beahun
On October 14, 2007, William Beahun passed away with our Lord at his side. He had fought a short but courageous battle. He was born on November 11, 1923 in Colfax. Bill was predeceased by his mother Pearl and father Michael, his brothers Peter, Tom and Joe. Let to mourn his loss but to celebrate his life is his wife of 59 years, Victoria; his daughters Linda and Sharon; his son and best friend Ron and his son-in-law Gord. Missing Papa are his grandchildren: Jaimie (Casey), Eliza, Ryan and Paul; missing Great-Papa is his beautiful great granddaughter Presley; and Papa's little Zachary, his four-legged companion with endless tail wags and licks; and very special friends of our family, Bev (Linda) and Nancy (Ron) whom we thank for their unwavering support and friendship to Pops; and Martyn of Scotland who always 'holds the glass high' for Dad! Dad will truly be missed by his life-long buddy Russ Taylor (Bunty and family), his nieces and nephews (especially Edna and Brent), his many relatives and friends. Dad was our father, our teacher and our Hero. He had a wonderful spirit, a quick wit and always with a smile. He had incredible personal strength. He was a self-taught carpenter, handyman and auto mechanic as well as a champion baseball and horseshoe player. Dad loved music. Early in their marriage, he and Mom played in a band for weddings and get-togethers in rural Saskatchewan, Bill with his guitar and Vickie with her accordion. Later in life Dad enjoyed listening to his cassette tapes and watching his favorite television shows. He made sure to budget a two week family vacation each year to introduce his children to the world around them. Precious memories and a love to travel will always be with us. After retirement, Dad and Mom became 'snowbirds' and spent their winters in Weslaco, Texas and Mexico. Dad will be missed for his unselfish love and hardworking ways. He was a humble person who never sought recognition but, rather, did all he could to help his family attain their personal goals. He had a strong work ethic but always made time for his family. Dad stood behind his children and gave them strength and support. He worked hard to clear a safe and sure path for his family to follow. We wish to thank Dr. Ron Gore, as well as Kelsey and Christie, nurses in the respiratory unit of the Kelowna General Hospital, for their care and respect. A funeral mass was held Thursday, October 18 at 2:00 pm with Father Wayne Pfliger, at St. Charles Garnier Parish, 3645 Benvoulin Road, Kelowna, BC. In Bill's memory you may send memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, #4-1551 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9M9. A gift in living memory of William will be made to "Holding Hands for Hospice" by Springfield Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com, 250-860-7077. "Follow your rainbow, Dad!"
Albert Emil Schultz
On Saturday, October 20, 2007, Albert Emil Schultz, late of Weyburn, passed away at the Radville Marian Health Centre, at the age of 79 years. Albert was predeceased by his loving wife, Agnes in 1995; parents, Emil and Ottilia; seven sisters: Lydia (George) Mogensen, Elsa (Jacob) Rawlings, Zelma (Raymond) Marllow, Georgia, Martha (Ralph) Castonova, Agatha (Jack) Heckathorn, and Erika (Nathan) Lappin; one nephew, Harry Schultz. Albert will be lovingly remembered by his four children, Elda Haug of Weyburn, Dwayne (Diana) Schultz of Weyburn, Elizabeth (Ron) Santin of Edmonton, AB and Lillian (Dale) Millar of Weyburn; nine grandchildren: Trent (Kara), Tennile and Kirsten (Jerrod) Haug of Calgary, AB, Dallas (Crystal) and Danielle (Anthony) Schultz of Weyburn, Anthony and Nadine Santin of Edmonton, AB and Brittany and Jonathan Millar of Weyburn; great grandchildren: Ayden, Kaedee and Liv; sisters, Bonnie Ruth (Bernard) Schultz and Erika (Nathan) Lappin; brothers, Rubin (Ruth Louise), Herbert (Velma) and Alexander (Kathleen), and 22 nieces and nephews. Albert was born June 13, 1928 at Verwood, the 11th child of 12 living born to Emil and Ottilia Schultz. His parents were German immigrants who farmed to provide for their family. After moving back and forth to Ontario, the family settled on a farm west of Halbrite in 1946. Albert helped his father farm with the use of horses. They slowly switched to tractors. Albert bought the farm from his father in 1952. He married Agnes Forberg Salte on October 30, 1953 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Torquay, and they lived with his parents on the farm. The marriage was blessed with four children, Elda, Dwayne, Elizabeth and Lillian, each who learned strong work ethics and Christian values from both parents. Agnes and Albert had many friends and relatives in Torquay and Midale, but their social life evolved around Zion Lutheran Church in Weyburn. Both taught for many years in Sunday School and Confirmation. Albert always volunteered to maintain the church, the Midale Bible Camp and served on congregational council. When his parents retired to Weburn, Albert farmed the home section and purchased another section in the following years. He kept a herd of 60 polled Hereford breeding stock and 20 Yorkshire brood sows. He also committed to many community affairs, serving on the Halbrite Regional School Board, director on the Grand Bend Telephone Co., Vice President of the local Wheat Pool and the E.L.C.I.C. Bible Camp board. Throughout the years, Agnes said his only vacation from work was his hunting trips with Ferdy and Gus, and later with Dwayne, Glenn and many others. Sunday outings were spent meeting friends and relatives at Mainprize Regional Park or at the Bible Camp for picnics and baseball games. In 1976, Agnes became ill and was diagnosed as having cancer of the spine. In 1978, Albert came down with fibromyalgia, and the doctor told him to quit farming and find a lighter job, which he did. He worked for Canada Post for eight years and retired in 1987. Albert, Agnes and Lillian moved into Weyburn right beside the church after a large farm auction, and they enjoyed travelling to visit far away relatives and friends across the U.S.A. and Canada. Albert was quite musically inclined, playing several instruments by ear including the piano. He learned to type using a word processor, and put together 300 "Praise and Inspiration" gospel hymn word books, along with four larger books with corresponding music for his church. As manager of the "Gospel Singers" he sang in five Care Homes twice a month in Weyburn and Midale, singing with this group who are now in their 23rd year Praising the Lord in Word and Song. His memory will live on through this ministry. Funeral service was held Thursday, October 25 at 2:00 p.m. from Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating, and Marjorie McLeod, Congregational Lay Assistant. The Gospel Singers accompanied by Helen Flaaten sang "There's a Wideness in God's Mercy." Interment followed in Green Acres Memorial Gardens, Weyburn. The pallbearers were his grandchildren: Trent Haug, Kirsten Haug, Brittany Millar, Jonathon Millar, Dallas Schultz and Danielle Schultz. Donations may be made in memory of Albert to the Canadian Bible Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn. (842-5432)
Ronald David Wagner
On Saturday, October 20, 2007, Ronald David Wagner passed away at the Weyburn General Hospital at the age of 66 years. Ronald was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Mollie Wagner; brothers: Raymond, David in infancy, Carl, Fred, Bob and Ed Wagner, and sister, Mollie Wing. Ronald will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 40 years, Linda, and their daughter, Andrea (Chris) Wilson and their children, Chase and Halle; one sister, Mary Clark; sisters-in-law: Jean (Gordon) Stronge, Mary and Denise Wagner; brothers-in-law: Jack Wing, Evan (Brenda) Bowles and their children, Rhonwen and Ted, Kelly (Teresa) Bowles and their children, Luke and Maggie; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Ronald David Wagner was born March 22, 1941 at Mount St. Mary's Hospital in Weyburn, the youngest of eight children born to Charles and Mollie Wagner. He was raised on the family farm east of Weyburn, where he lived until his passing. He loved farm life, preferring to be outdoors. He taught himself to swim in the dugout and loved his horses. A lot of time was spent taking care of his cattle and horses. Ron attended school at East Weyburn School, then he went to Hume school until it closed. He then attended Haig School for three years. Ron quit school in the middle of grade 8 to help out on the farm. In the fall of 1966, Ron met Linda Bowles. They were married at Zion Lutheran Church on October 14, 1967. The marriage was blessed with one daughter, Andrea Dawn, born February 13, 1973. Ron was introduced to curling in 1968. It was a weekend bonspiel of the Elks in which he played lead. Before long, he was curling with the travelers Curling Club, and various bonspiels as a skip. He really enjoyed his curling. In 1973, Ron's brother Carl was killed in a tractor accident, and his nephew Maurice came to help his uncle Ron on the farm. He stayed for six years, making another addition to the family. Linda's brother, Kelly, lived there for two years, and the family was complete. In 1983, W & C Limousin was formed by Ron and his nephew Maurice. Ron loved going to cattle shows. He even won some ribbons showing his cattle. He spent a lot of time finding names for his cattle, with every year being a different letter of the alphabet. Ron was one of the original founders of Price-Rite Fuels, and was on the board of directors for 18 years. Rarely did he miss a morning or afternoon coffee, visiting with friends. He belonged to the Elks Club from 1968 to 1988, and was an avid card player. At the end, Ron put up a valiant fight against the cancer. He appreciated each of his visitors, thanking them for coming to visit. He was grateful to all of the nurses and thanked them continuously. Funeral service was held Wednesday, October 24 at 2:00 p.m. from Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating, and Marjorie McLeod, Congregational Lay Assistant. Linda Haugen gave a memorial tribute, and scripture readings were done by Darlene Skinner and Valerie Wing. Interment followed in Green Acres Memorial Gardens, Weyburn. The pallbearers were: Bruce Wagner, Kenny Wagner, Ronnie Wing, Gary Wing, Maurice Clark, Larry Clark and Rod Wing. Donations may be made in memory of Ronald to the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn. (842-5432)
Elizabeth Mary Andrews
It is with profound sadness that the family of Betty (Elizabeth Mary) Andrews (Dixon/ Weber/ Jones) announce her abrupt passing. When Betty's earthly body had worn out from loving, working and living a full life, her final days were spent surrounded by her children. Elizabeth Mary Andrews passed away at Regina, on Saturday, October 20, 2007 at the age of 76 years. Betty was predeceased by her parents, 'grandma and grandpa Jones' (Dave and Helena of Talmage), three marriage partners: Rob Weber, Tom Dixon and Ken Andrews; sister-in-law, Joyce Jones (Bell) and brother-in-law, Ed Lesko. In mourning, Betty is survived by her siblings, Gwen Lesko, Regina, Ed Jones, Weyburn, Bob (Lucy) Jones, Regina and Dick (Connie) Jones, Medicine Hat, AB. Betty also leaves four children: Bonnie (Barry) Mactaggart, Weyburn, Gloria Miller, Agassiz, BC, Gord (Marilyn) Weber, Calgary, AB, Jerry (Laurie) Weber, Calgary; step-children: Val (Dale) Schwabe (Andrews), Regina, Heather (Terry) Cullen (Dixon), Vancouver, BC and Rick Dixon. Also mourning Betty's passing are her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Shelly (Shane) Dammann and their children: Megan, Jake and Callie, Chris Mactaggart (Lisa Gilroyed), Cara Lafferty-Miller, Tessa Miller, Joey Weber, Matt Weber, Devin Weber, Kate Weber, Jason Schwabe, Cameron Schwabe and Carley, Courtney and Conner Cullen. Further, Betty has left many adoring nieces and nephews who held a special place in Auntie Betty's heart as well as lifelong peers and friends. Betty is also greatly missed by her adoring feline companion, "Rascal." She leaves a universe of memories and fond impressions among those who came to know her. We will always remember her for her hospitality: wonderful family dinners, gardening, preserves, her baking and her creativity. A Service of Remembrance was held at Grace United Church, Weyburn, on Thursday, October 25, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Catherine Harper officiating. All in attendance were considered honorary pallbearers. Interment followed at Worcester Cemetery. With a kind and giving heart, Betty supported the following charities: Regina Firefighters Association, Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Canadian Professional Police Association, Canadian Arthritis Society, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, CNIB, CUSO, Canadian Red Cross, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Society of the Little Flower, Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Cancer Research Society, Canadian Council of the Blind, Mouth & Foot Painter Foundation, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation; and her love for animals was further reflected in her support of: World Society for the Protection of Animals, S.P.C.A., P.E.T.A. and Canadian Wildlife Federation. Arrangements were entrusted to RD Family Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, (848-0333 ~ 1-888-848-0333). If so desired, expressions of sympathy to the family may be sent to our website at www.rdfamilymemorialchapel.com "Our family serving your family"
Betty Arlene Lubiens
Betty Arlene Lubiens passed away Thursday, October 18, 2007 at the age of 83 years at the Regina General Hospital. Betty was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Gladys Lubiens, late of Fillmore; two sisters, Vivian Stewart, late of Calgary, AB, and Marjorie Struthers, late of Weyburn. At Betty's time of passing she leaves to mourn one brother, Donald (Joan) Lubiens and their family, Kim (John) Griep, Terry (Sunil) Khaladkar, Don E. (Angie) Lubiens; brother-in-law, Jack Stewart, and his family, Gloria Stewart, Drew Stewart and Gary and Sharlene Stewart; brother-in-law, Leslie Struthers and his family, Jo-Ann (Gordon) Burley, Cindy (Terry) Burgess and Don (Rosanne) Struthers; and numerous great nieces and nephews. Betty was born July 17, 1924, raised and educated in Fillmore. She moved to Regina after high school graduation and began a brief career in banking. From June, 1944 until her retirement in June, 1979, Betty gave 35 years of devoted civil service to the Department of the Attorney General. Betty's interests included bowling, oil painting, golfing, travel and her love of photography (especially of family and friends) which kept her busy sorting and organizing photos into numerous albums. At Betty's request, there will be no funeral service; interment at a later date in Fillmore cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Betty may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Saskatchewan Division, 150 Albert St., Regina, SK S4R 2N2. An on-line book of condolence may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com.
Douglas Walls Beattie
On Thursday, October 25, 2007, Douglas Walls Beattie passed away at the Weyburn General Hospital at the age of 88 years, with his daughter by his side. Doug was predeceased by his parents, George and Anne Beattie and by one sister, Edna Mae Grandbois. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Bonnie Beattie of Weyburn, and their family: one daughter, Jan (Jim) Keating of Weyburn, and their daughters, Tara and Trenna Keating, both of Regina; one son, Craig Beattie of Alberta and his children: Cory (Jackie) Beattie of St. Albert, AB and their family: Cole, Erica and Nicholas; Nina (Gary) Ulmer of Stony Plain, AB and their son, Angus; Jaret (Assunta) Beattie of St. Albert, AB and their son, Francesco; one daughter-in-law, Brenda Beattie (John Evans), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, relatives and friends. Doug was the second child of George Beattie and Anne Walls. His sister, Edna Mae, was seven years his senior. George Beattie was a blacksmith and artisan from Scotland. He came to Canada around 1905 and married Anne Walls from England in 1912. Douglas was born on July 22, 1919 in Verdun, Quebec. When Doug was five years old, he had his first run in with "woman trouble". A little French girl hit him over the head with a lead pipe and he suffered convulsive seizures. The family doctor advised George and Anne to move out west where the dryer climate would be better for Doug's health. They first settled in Bienfait where his father got work in the mine as a blacksmith. It was the "Dirty Thirties" and work was scarce so the family moved several times before settling in Verwood. Doug spent his youth in Verwood and received his high school education here. While living in Verwood, Doug developed an interest in music. His father had a 2-row button accordion and a violin. At age nine, Doug made his first appearance on stage in the town hall. He played "Kiss Me Again." People were amazed at such a young fellow playing this popular love song. As a teenager, Doug got the chance to play in a band. He quickly learned that the violin was getting drowned out by the other instruments. The only other instrument in the house was the 2-button accordion so he went back to playing it. When he could afford it, he bought his first "piano accordion." In 1940, he signed up at the temporary recruiting station in Regina to join the Royal Canadian Air Force. Prior to this, he spent six months in Youth Training School in Moose Jaw. He learned metal work and tinsmithing. Later he was sent to the Toronto Manning Pool where he learned drill marching and parade square formations. He was posted to St. Thomas, ON and then to Rivers, MB to serve as an airframe mechanic on Avro Anson twin-engine aircraft. While stationed in Rivers, Doug met a young waitress working in Brandon, MB, named Velma Irene Maxted, but everyone called her "Bonnie". Romance blossomed and on September 15, 1942 they were wed. They just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary September, 2007. During the war, his parents had moved to Weyburn. Then the war ended and Doug needed work. His father suggested they form a partnership and purchase a blacksmith shop from Louis Bell. In 1945, he moved his bride from Brandon to Weyburn. When his father retired, Doug got work as a journeyman welder for the Department of Highways and worked there until his retirement. He continued with his interest in music and played in a band called the Vagabonds. They played for dances at Club 13 and for many occasions in the surrounding community. They also played at Legion most Saturday nights. He also taught accordion lessons for many years. Doug served as an active member with the Weyburn Legion and had a Lifetime Membership. He was also a Mason for a time. Some of his other interests were golf, gardening, love of animals and birds, family gatherings, and suppers every Saturday night with special friends. During the final months of his life, Doug joined his wife, Bonnie, at Tatagwa View Nursing Home. The family would like to thank the staff for making his last days as pleasant as possible. Thanks Dad for just being "You." Heaven is already a better place because you are there. God will take care of you until we meet again. Funeral service was held Wednesday, October 31 at 2:00 p.m. from Calvary Baptist Church, Weyburn, with Rev. Doug Loden officiating and organist Mary Johnston. Jan Keating gave the Eulogy and fond remembrances of Grandpa were given by grandson, Jaret Beattie. Granddaughter, Tara Keating did a Power Point presentation of her Grandpa's life and sang "Where've You Been" with words adapted for the occasion from the original song. Variations Choir, directed by Sheri Mahnke and accompanied by Gail Murray sang, "Nearer, Still Nearer." "The Lord's Prayer" was sung by Gerald Alexander. Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #47 formed the Honor Guard and Rev. John Ferrier led in the Last Post Service. Interment followed at Green Acres Memorial Gardens, Weyburn, with Active Pallbearers: Cory and Jaret Beattie, Gary Ulmer, Ken Meckling, Neil and Tyson Eddy. Donations may be made in memory of Doug to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Sun Country Therapeutic Animal Park, c/o Don Sealy, 605 Windsor St., Weyburn, SK S4H 0X1. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd, Weyburn, Sask. (842-5432). The family wishes to thank all those who participated in the service, the Baptist ladies who served at the lunch, and the many friends who visited and sent flowers or made donations. Your support is greatly appreciated. The following poem was found by Doug's granddaughter, Trenna Keating, in a book of poems owned by Bonnie Beattie. Bonnie had bookmarked this poem and it describes Doug very well:
People are of two kinds, and he
Was the kind I'd like to be.
Some preach their virtues, and a few
Express their lives by what they do;
That sort was he. No flowery phrase
Or glibly spoken word of praise
Won friends for him. He wasn't cheap
Or shallow, but his course ran deep,
And it was pure. You know the kind.
Not many in life you find
Whose deeds outrun their words so far
That more than what they seem, they are.
-Unknown
