Mission and Service Fund



Wonder Cafe


UCC

United Church of Canada

In Memoriam -2010

 

Hugh John Harrison
Ruth Sturm
Boo Thompson
Kenneth E. Bouvette
Brian Opp
Betty Louise Arndt
Bert Fried
Beatrice "Bea" Iverson
Alex Shand
Emilie Stehr
Connie Golberg
Norma Jean Smeland
Margaret Sylvia Werth
Emilie Stickel
Mary Robertson
Alice Felesky
Glen Stanley Shirley
Linda Marie Savage
Ida Giesinger
Edith Mitchell
Edwin Maier

 


Edwin Maier

Mr. Edwin Maier, beloved husband of Mrs. Lydia Maier of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, November 12th, 2010 at the age of 84 years.

Edwin also leaves to cherish his memory two sons, Barry (Evelyn) Maier of Edmonton and Stan (Terri) Maier of Lethbridge; four grandchildren, Dr. Michael (Kristy) Maier, Michelle (Dr. Alastair) McKean, Tyler (Katie) Maier and Amanda Maier; three great grandchildren, Caleb, McKenzie and Abrielle; one sister, Freda Shuya of St. Albert; one brother-in-law, Rueben Heinrich of Maple Ridge BC; and one sister-in-law, Anne Maier of Medicine Hat; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Edwin was predeceased by his parents, William and Matilda Maier; one brother, Dave Maier; one sister, Emily Heinrich and one brother-in-law, Sam Shuya. Edwin was born on March 15th, 1926 in Medicine Hat. He was raised on the family farm in the Clearwater Lake District and attended Fifteen Mile Lake School. In 1946, he moved to Medicine Hat where he worked for National Porcelain and later Birds Construction. Edwin married Lydia Schneider on June 11th, 1948 in Medicine Hat and together they made their home in the city for the next sixty-two years. On August 18th, 1948, Edwin became employed with Maple Leaf Mills retiring in the spring of 1984 after thirty-six years. Edwin enjoyed fishing, travelling. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge for many years. Edwin will be missed by his family and many friends.

Back to top


Edith Mitchell

Mrs. Edith May Mitchell, beloved wife of the late Allan Mitchell, passed away in Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 4, 2010, at the age of 87 years.

She leaves to cherish her memory: sister-in-law, Elsie Allan of Medicine Hat; nephews, Kurt's Allan of Brampton, ON. and Jim (Marg) Allan of California; nieces, Caraline (Stanley) Affonso of California and Edith (Donald) Finlayson of Florida as well as numerous great-nieces and great- nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Hugh and Grace Allan as well as three brothers, Robert, Wesley and Melvin.

Edith was born to Hugh and Grace Allan in Swan River, Manitoba on November 25, 1922. She married Allan Mitchell on October 25, 1944, and moved to Medicine Hat in 1952. She worked at the Medicine Hat Hospital for a number of years as a secretary. After retirement, Edith served as a volunteer in various areas at the hospital as well as at Westminster United Church. She was proud to be a lifetime member of the Order of Royal Purple, and she will be dearly remembered by all those who knew her.

Back to top


Ida Giesinger

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ida (Knoblick) Giesinger on November 3, 2010 at the age of 90 years, beloved wife of the late Sebastian Giesinger.

Ida leaves to cherish her memory, one son, Marven (Barb) of Onoway, Alberta (their children, Mike Giesinger, Tannis Giesinger and Tara Reis), two daughters, Margo (Dwen) Miller of Tees, Alberta (their children, Rhonda (Terry) Trider, Rachelle (Darin) Gill and Brett (Megan) Miller of Lacome, Alberta and Joanne (Randy) Giesinger of Medicine Hat. She was great grandmother to her eight great grandchildren, Randy Giesinger, Ryan Giesinger, Matthew Reis, Ashley Reis, Jessie Trider, Jena Trider, Jordan Gill and Hanna Gill. Ida also leaves to cherish her memory her sisters, Martha Giesinger, Lydia (Herb) Pahl, Irene Jans and Edna Redelback as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ida was always interested in being a busy homemaker, doing everything the "good old fashioned way."

In her earlier years, she loved making quilts, knitting, gardening, baking bread, kuha and making homemade soap. She also really loved having a clean house and yard as well as going to her sisters, Lydia and Edna's ceramic shops to buy just one more piece of ceramics. Another favourite thing that Ida loved doing was spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren. When they were little she loved teaching them to speak German and when German came out of a little mouth it of course sounded so cute that her and Dad would have a good laugh! Mom also taught them to sing "You are my Sunshine" which also sounded real cute! She would spend lots of time sitting in a corner teaching the grandchildren, which made her very happy.

Ida grew up at Schuler on her parents Matthew and EmmaKnoblick's farm. She spoke often about the cooking her and her older sisters would do for the threshing crew. Her little sisters were taken right along with the food out to the fields at the meal time; no one got left behind. Coming from a family of seven girls, each girl had a job to do which Ida talked a lot about and hard work was the way things were done. Ida's life was always busy and always full. Her and her stories will be missed by all of us!

Back to top


Linda Marie Savage

Linda Marie (Damschen) Savage passed away at her home in Redcliff on Tuesday, November 2, 2010 at the age of 63 years, beloved wife of John Savage.

She also leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Scott Kelley of Idaho, Kyle Kelley of Texas and Michael Hirsch of Oregon; seven grandchildren; one brother, Barry Damschen of Helena and her sister, Debbie Folkerts of Billings as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Irene and Roy Damschen. Linda was born on April 14, 1947 in Havre. She attended school in Harve and graduated from Havre High School in 1965. She later moved to Rapid City, South Dakota making it her home for many years, until she met John and they were married on August 5, 1985. Together they moved to Medicine Hat and they lived in the area until her passing. Linda loved her animals dearly and always had a house full of the many stray Dogs and cats that she accumulated in her lifetime. Each and everyone meant the world to her.

Back to top


Glen Stanley Shirley

Glen was born December 6, 1953 in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and died suddenly September 15, 2010 in David, Chiriqui, Panama.

He was predeceased by his father, Edgar Stanley Shirley in 1973 and survived by his mother and stepfather, Jean Kathleen and Ronald Hiebert of Surrey, BC, son, Michael (Jolene) Endicott of Weyburn, Saskatchewan, sister, Dianne Kathleen (Hugh) Powell of Calgary, niece, Carla Leanne (Andy) MacLeod of Edmonton, granddaughter, Brooklyn Endicott in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. Glen called Medicine Hat and the surrounding area home for over 30 years.

He made his living as a floorlayer for many years then moved on to work in the Oil Patch and later ran his own small business. Glen valued his relationships with friends and family, loved cooking and entertaining, and enjoyed spending time riding his Harley, going to Bike rallys, travelling, fishing and following the Nascar racing on T.V. He took great pride in remodelling his home and yard. His one-of-a-kind outdoor stone fireplace was photographed frequently by passers-by. 3 years ago

Glen left us to pursue his dream of early retirement in Panama. There he met new friends and relished in remodelling his new "Casa" and grounds, turning it into his own tropical paradise. He enjoyed visits from Canadian friends. At the time of his death he had just completed the work on his new home and was planning a Fiesta for his Spanish friends and workers. Sadly, he has left us too soon. He is sincerely missed and will remain in the hearts of his family and friends always. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 27 at 3 pm at Westminster United Church, 101 6th St. S.E.

Back to top


Alice Felesky

Alice was born in Medicine Hat on September 7th, 1919. She was raised in the centre of the existing British Block (Suffield Experimental Station) Post Office called Bingville.

After the land was expropriated in 1941, Alice and her foster family moved to land bordering Highway #3. She resided there until 1967. From there, she and her foster mother moved to Medicine Hat.

Alice married Ed Felesky on January 30th, 1971 in Medicine Hat, where she continued to reside until the time of her passing. Alice was a kind and compassionate woman who meant so much to all who knew her. She spent her life extending herself to others and to her interests. She was an avid gardener and bowler, and an active member in the church community.

Alice belonged to the UCW, the Ostomy Association of Canada, and the Golden Friendship Society and was treasurer for all three organizations. She also volunteered for the Canadian Cancer Society and the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation. Alice shared her love and sense of humor by being positive and enthusiastic. She will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Back to top


Mary Robertson

Mary Emma Robertson, nee McKinley, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13, 2010 in the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital.

Mary RobertsonShe was the beloved mother of John David Robertson and Jessie "Anne " (Garth) Maier and grandmother of Matthew Charles Maier, Andrew Jacob Maier and Daniel Thomas Maier. Mary was predeceased by her husband Charles, on February 10, 1989; a son-in-law, Douglas Meakes on December 18, 1988 and her sister, Florence Shearer McKinley in childhood.

Mary was born August 11, 1920 in Medicine Hat. She lived on a ranch in the Wisdom area where she began her schooling until 1928 when her family moved to Medicine Hat. Mary received her early education in Medicine Hat at Elizabeth Street School and Alexandra. The family then moved to Creston in 1936 where Mary finished her high school. Following high school she went to the Vancouver General Hospital and received her nursing diploma and then to the University of British Columbia to get a degree in nursing. She worked as a Public Health Nurse in the British Columbia interior until her marriage.

Mary met Charles Alexander Robertson and the two were married at Boners Ferry on February 28, 1958. They resided in Medicine Hat where they had two children, a daughter, Jessie "Anne" and son, "John" David. Mary was a very proud Grandma who loved her three grandchildren and enjoyed watching them participate in various sports and activities. Mary was a lifetime member of the UCW and volunteered with many groups. Mary bowled, enjoyed travelling, reading and a good game of cards; she was an avid bridge player. Mary took pride in her beautiful flowerbeds and loved nature. Mary's twinkling eyes and wonderful sense of humor will be greatly missed.

The Funeral Service will be held at Westminster United Church, 101 6th Street S.E., Medicine Hat on Friday, September 17, 2010, at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend James Farrell officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. (Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Mary's name may be made directly to the Medicine Hat Palliative Care Society, 666 5th St. SW, Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 4H6 or the charity of ones choice. Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Medicine Hat, AB.

Back to top


Emilie Stickel

Emilie Stickel, beloved wife of the late Mr. John Stickel, passed away peacefully at the Riverview Care Centre on Wednesday, August 18, 2010, at the age of 90 years.

Emilie leaves to cherish her memory: children, David (Marie) Stickel of Emilie Stickel Medicine Hat, Pauline (Clifford) Ekman of Coronation, Hannah (William) Hoffart of Medicine Hat, Martin Stickel and Adolph Stickel both of Seven Persons; grandchildren, Dale (Stacy) Ekman of Didsbury, Karen Ekman (Chris Erickson) of Calgary, Tyler Ekman of Coronation, Curtis Hoffart of Tilley, Amanda Hoffart of Medicine Hat; great- grandchildren, Levi and Chloe Ekman of Didsbury; in-laws, Margaret Stickel, Rose Stickel, Olga Stickel, Ida Stehr, Jean Peirce, Traugott Steilr and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, John; daughter in infancy, Martha; parents, Jochim and Dorothea Stickel; brothers, Frederick (Cecilia), John, Jacob (Emma), Herbert, Adam, Christian, Andrew (Frieda) and Emanuel; sisters, Lydia (Emanuel) Hildebrand, Hannah Stickel, HuIda Stickel; in-laws, Emmanuel Stickel, Ruby Stickel, Fred Stickel, Christina (Gotfred) Stehr, Hilda (Waldamar) Stehr and Emily Stehr. Emilie was born a daughter to Jochim and Dorothea Stickel on January 7, 1920, in Gros Ventre, Alberta.

Emilie and John were married on November 22, 1941. They farmed at Seven Persons until retiring to Medicine Hat in September of 1984. In February of 2004, Emilie went into long-term care, and has resided at the Riverview Care Centre since August of 2004. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Riverview Care Centre Resident Council, 603 Prospect Srive S.W., Medicine Hat AB., TlA 4C2.

Back to top


Margaret Sylvia Werth

Margaret Sylvia Werth of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, August 6, 2010, at the age of 76 years, beloved wife of the late Jack Werth.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Heather (John) Gold of Medicine Hat, Jacqueline (Roger) Warren of Adu Dahbi, United Arab Emirates and Darren Werth of Brooks; her loving grandson, Evrhetton Gold of Medicine Hat; two step-grandchildren, Bronic (Jamie) Gold and Jocelyn (Geoff) Durling all of Morgan Hill, California; six step-great grandchildren, Bree, Lauren, Rowen, Evann, Callum and Alexia; two sisters, Joan MacLean of Regina and Carol Ward of Choteau, Oklahoma as well as her favorite furry friends, Tino, Monty and Rommel. She was predeceased by her parents Peggy and Gerald Fox; her husband Jack Werth and one sister Kay Perkins.

The funeral service will be held in The PATTISON CHAPEL on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to the Women's Shelter Box 2500, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8G8 or to the S.P.C.A. - 55 Southwest Drive SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8E8.

Back to top


Norma "Jean" Smeland

Norma "Jean" Smeland, beloved wife of Orville Smeland for 46 years, passed away peacefully at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Wednesday, July 14, 2010 at the age of 67 years.

She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Kathy Smeland (Wes Tatebe), Colleen (Ashley) Emery all of Calgary; one granddaughter, Freya Emery; two brothers, Robert (Carol) Bruins of Bow Island and Phillip Bruins of Medicine Hat; two sisters-in-law, Barb Bruins of Medicine Hat, Sonja DeGraw of Edmonton; brothers-in-law, Gordon Smeland (Jo-Ann Siska) of Victoria, Bryan Smeland (Suzy Zadravec) of Calgary as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Harmy and Norma Bruins; one brother, Randall Bruins; father-in-law, Arnold Smeland; mother-in-law, Olga Smeland and sister-in-law, Audrey Smeland.

Jean was born in Edmonton, Alberta and at a young age her family moved to Medicine Hat. As a young woman her interests included piano, involvement in Job's Daughters and Army Cadets and she taught and performed tap dance. After graduating from Medicine Hat High School she attended nursing school and then went on to graduate from Garbutt's Business College. Jean worked as a clerk with Green Shoes then later for several years with IAC Financial.

In August of 1963 Jean married Orville Smeland and together they raised their two daughters, Kathy and Colleen. Jean was well known for her knitting, crocheting and sewing ability as well as her keenness for word puzzles, crosswords, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune. Throughout the years Jean was involved in bowling, curling, and golf leagues and went on to volunteer for the Alberta Ladies Golf Association in the capacity of a rules chairman, vice president and later president. Jean and her brother, Randall, opened The License Bureau to which Jean co-owned and operated. Upon retirement Orville and Jean enjoyed many winter trips south to Arizona and later California. A celebration of Jean's life will be held in Westminster United Church (101 6th Street SE) on Monday, July 19, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Leroy Angle officiating.

Back to top


Connie Goldberg

Mrs. Constance Leilani Golberg passed away peacefully at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital while surrounded by her family on Monday, June 21, 2010, the age of 69 years.

Connie was born in Empress on July 13, 1940 and raised in Medicine Hat. She was a proud graduate of the Medicine Hat General Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1961. Connie worked at the Central Park Lodge for many years prior to her retirement in 2005. 

She will be lovingly remembered by her mother, Irene Cunnings of Medicine Hat; daughters, Laura Lee (Warren) Lelond of Duchess and their children, Brent and Brock; Rhonda Rae West of Hinton and her children, Kennedy and Shane; brother, Jim Cunnings and sister, Judy Nay, both of Medicine Hat; nieces, Michelle Nay of Calgary and Adrienne Cunnings of Canmore; nephews, Michael Nay of Rahleigh, N.C. and Nathan Cunnings of Victoria, B.C. Connie was predeceased by her father, Ronald Everett Cunnings. 

A Memorial Service will be held at Westminster United Church, 101 - 6th Street S.E., Medicine Hat on Saturday, June 26, 2010, at 2:00 P.M. with Gloria Angle officiating.

Back to top


Emilie Stehr

Emilie Stehr (nee: Stickle) passed away on Friday, June 4, 2010 at the age of 87 years, beloved wife of Traugott Stehr of Medicine Hat.

She also leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Shirley (Russell Prior) of Regina; two sons, Stanley Stehr and Eugene Stehr (Patricia) of Irvine; her grandchildren, Tania Marie (Grant Cooper) of Okotoks, Constable TeraLeigh Prior of Biggar, Saskatchewan, Tyler (Dorlisa) Prior of Medicine Hat, Nathan Stehr of Ottawa, Thomas Stehr (friend, Kelly) and Jonathan Stehr of Medicine Hat; she was blessed with three great grandchildren, Scott and Teighla Cooper and Adelyn Prior; five sisters-in-law, Edna, Ida, Olga, Emily and Jean. Emilie is the last of the Fred and Christina Stickel family. Besides her parents she was predeceased by two brothers in infancy, and three brothers, John, Emanuel and her younger brother Fred; two older sisters, Hilda Stehr and Christina Stehr.

Emilie was born on May 15, 1923 in the Wisdom, Alberta area and began her schooling at the Lloyd school. The family later moved to the area west of Seven Persons. Emilie met Traugott at their sister's and brother's wedding, which must have been love at first sight, because they were married six years later on February 21, 1945, 65 years ago. Emilie and Traugott were the last of the three sisters who married three brothers! Together they farmed in what is now known as the Clearwater area, north of Irvine. In September of 1981, they semi-retired to Medicine Hat, but still helped on the family farm. Emilie was a hard working person, she knew all areas of farm work and was able to take over at any position. Her passions were reading, gardening, watching hockey, and she loved spending time with all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Emilie was in good health until the end of last year, and during the first part of the new year. At the end of April, she was hospitalized in the Foothills hospital for two weeks, and though she felt better she never fully recovered. On Thursday June 3rd she returned to the hospital in Medicine Hat and passed away peacefully on Friday evening with her loving husband and family at her side.

Back to top


Alex Shand

On March 24, 2010, in his 91st year, Alex died peacefully "at home" in ,Red Deer where he had moved recently to be closer to family.

alex shandHe was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Marion; parents, Alexander T. and Jean Shand of Burntisland, Scotland; sister, Annie and brother, Andrew. Alex is survived by his brother, Robert (Margaret) Shand; children: Drew (Judy), Judy, Donna (Larry Anderson), David, Brenda, Elaine (Ray Berard) and Heather (Tom McMurray). Grandchildren: Laura, Leon, Zoe; Joy, Adam; Naomi, Nadia, Natasha, Nicole; Adam, Alexandra, Meaghan; Matthew and Lauren and nine great-grandchildren will miss their beloved "Poppy".

This citation from the 1978 Citizen of the Year bears witness to his life of contribution to his adopted home in Medicine Hat. "A gracious Son of Scotland, born to hear the roaring sea, war and service provided him a new and challenging life on the Canadian Prairies. He found a lifelong partner and new friends as he served in the forces of his country. Even in those troubled times, he and his associates brought music and joy to our community.

Always committed to honesty and integrity in public life, he maintained important records, designed and administered educational services for hundreds of children, and set an outstanding example of industry and loyalty. Forever believing in cultural improvement and being immensely proud of his community, he personally engaged in many musical endeavours. The desire to lift his associates has ever held a prominent place in his heart as he became involved in chorus, symphony, and a wide array of other activities."

An example of quiet consistency, optimism, humility and loyalty to both family and friends, Alex will be missed for his sense of humour, his generosity of spirit and his enthusiastic enjoyment of life. The music he shared lives on in our memories as a profound legacy. To the very end, he was delighted to share his music, "entertaining the old folks". Let the music play on?

Back to top


Beatrice "Bea" Iverson

Beatrice "Bea" Iverson of Medicine Hat passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2010, at the age of 80 years.

Bea was born Clarice Beatrice Iverson on September 22, 1929 in Cabri, Saskatchewan.

She was employed by the City of Medicine Hat for 28 years and was a very active member of Westminster United Church.

Bea Leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews and their families.

Beatrice "Bea" was born Clarice Beatrice Iverson on September 22, 1929 in Cabri, Saskatchewan.

Back to top


Albert "Bert" Fried

Mr. Albert "Bert" Fried, beloved husband of Mrs. Evelyn Fried of Medicine Hat, passed away on Monday, February 15th, 2010 at the age of 66 years.

Bert also leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Crystal (Guy) Phillips and Sheri Fried (Brian Kanewischer); two grandchildren, Tomi-Lyn and Trey Phillips; his parents, Henry and Frieda Fried; one sister, Erika Decker and her family; and Evelyn's parents, Emma and Leonard Edvardson

 

Back to top


Betty Arndt

Betty Louise Arndt passed away in her home on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at the age of 74 years.

Betty leaves to cherish her memory five children, Michael (Sandra), Wendy (Harold) Dreger, Eldon (Noreen), Richard (Lynn), Julie (Marvin) Spear; fifteen grandchildren, and seventeen great grandchildren.

She also leaves the love of her life, friend and companion for the past 30 years, Ron Henderson and his children and grandchildren who also called her Grandma Betty. As well one brother Richard (Mary) Schuster and one sister, Doreen Spencer and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Betty was predeceased by her parents, Richard "Dick" and Ethel Schuster and her husband Jacob in 1974.

Back to top


Brian Leroy Opp

Brian LeRoy Opp of Medicine Hat, passed away on Monday, February 1, 2010, at the age of 57 years.

Brian Leroy OppHe leaves to cherish his memory his children, Dwayne (Kristine) Opp, James (Joelle) Opp, Jamie Opp and their mother Cathy Hilsendeger; five grandchildren, Brendan, Tyla, Nolan and their mother Natasha Opp; Tenisha and Shanae; his mother Marvilla Opp; two sisters, Sharon (Eldon) Blanchard and Bonnie Adams; and his girlfriend Fran Heerkens. He was predeceased by his father Victor Francis Opp; his brother Darryl Wayne Opp and a brother-in-law Darrell Adams. Brian was born on May 19, 1952 in Medicine Hat where he was raised.

On March 8, 1976 he married Cathy Hilsendeger. Brian and Cathy raised their three children in Redcliff and Medicine Hat. He was employed at Crane Canada Foundry for 21 years where he acted as the Steel Workers Union Local President.

Shortly after the closing of the foundry, Brian's health began to fail, but he remained active with his great love of his hobbies which included computers, electronics and building and flying model air crafts. He loved spending time with his family and his dog Lady.

Back to top


Ken Bouvette

Kenneth E. Bouvette passed away on Monday, January 25, 2010 at the age of 71 years.

He leaves to cherish his memory three children, Brenda
(Les) Bryant of Edmonton, Jim Bouvette and Jacqueline Bouvette (Dany Deraspe) all of Medicine Hat; eight grandchildren, Benjamin (Ashley), Rebecca (Tyler Anstead), Katherine, Elizabeth, Victoria, Daniel, Kendall, and MaryAnn; one great grandson, Joshua; one brother, Basil (Rose) Bouvette; two sisters, Elva Bouvette and Kay (Bob) Taylor.

He was predeceased by his parents Mary and Benjamin Bouvette; his wife Joanne in 1993 and one brother Larry.

Back to top


Boo Thompson

Boo was born on a ranch near Dorothy, Alberta on September 27th, 1911 and received her education at a boarding school in Calgary.

In 1930, she moved to the ranch near Buffalo, and it was here where she met Bill Thompson, a school teacher at Emslie School, twelve miles North of Buffalo.

They were married on January 12th, 1937 in Calgary and made their home in many Alberta, Ontario, and New Brunswick towns, where Bill taught school and served in the Royal Canadian Air Force, during WWII.

They returned to Buffalo in 1946 where Boo became the assistant post mistress, oil and gas attendant, telephone operator and farmer's wife.

In 1958, they moved to Suffield where she again became a teacher's wife. The following year they moved to Hilda but eventually settled in Medicine Hat in 1962.

Back to top


Ruth Sturm

April 20, 1943 ~ January 10, 2010

Mrs. Ruth Sturm of Medicine Hat, passed away after a brief and courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at the age of 66 years.

She was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing. Ruth is the beloved wife and best friend of Ed Sturm, and loving mother of Bonnie Sturm, of Nanton; Sandy (Matt) Read of Redcliff; and Michael Sturm of Medicine Hat.

She also leaves to cherish her memory three sisters, Mary Stapleton, Ida Stapleton, and Hilda Eslinger as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, William and Anna Scherer; three brothers, Albert, Ken, and Dick; and two sisters, Alice Scherer and Maggie Stapleton.

Ruth was born on April 20, 1943 in Leader, Saskatchewan. She spent her early childhood working hard on the family farm east of Fox Valley, before moving to Medicine Hat with her family.

Ruth met the love of her life in 1959 and she and Ed were married on October 29, 1960. She stayed at home to raise the children, but still found time to plan and enjoy with Ed, the many ball tournaments, fishing derbies and children's Christmas parties for the Moose Lodge. When she felt the time was right she entered the workforce, first at the ALCB Beer Store on South Railway and later she went on to work at Western Drug Mart in the former Southview Mall and joined them at the new location in Southridge.

She enjoyed helping her many favourite customers and sharing a laugh with her coworkers. After both retiring in 2002, she and Ed were able to spend more time travelling, camping, fishing and honing her competitive skills at cards and board games. Also, Mom took great pride in her flower beds, for which she was often complimented. Over the years Mom loved and enjoyed the antics of her cats, Bella and Sheba and Bonnie's dog, Mistahaya.

Back to top


Hugh John Harrison

April 29, 1919 ~ January 9, 2010

Mr. Hugh John Harrison, beloved husband of Mrs. Bertha Harrison of Medicine Hat, passed away on Saturday, January 9th, 2010 at the age of 90 years.

Hugh also leaves to cherish his memory four children, Penny Holst of Medicine Hat, Wayne (Brenda) of Ottawa, Gary (Jean) and Sidney (Maggie), both of Medicine Hat; eight grandchildren, Laura (Cass), Jason (Vicki), Shawna (Percy), Brad, Morgan (Jennifer), Sarah (Michael), Connor, and Evan; Mel Seelye; eight great- grandchildren, Owen, Hannah, Wyatt, Maddie, Matthew, Rachel, Samantha, and Aubrey; and one brother, Norman of Nanaimo, BC; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Hugh was predeceased by one son-in-law, Kurt Holst; his parents, Benjamin and Dorothy Harrison; two brothers, Leslie and Raymond; three sisters, Isobel Bell, Olive Elrick and Dorothy Metzner.

Hugh was born in Medicine Hat on April 29th, 1919 when the family lived in Walsh. Six years later the family moved to Estuary, Saskatchewan where he received his education. Hugh joined the Calgary Highlanders on January 2nd, 1940 and served overseas for five years in England, Sicily, Italy and North West Europe. He was stationed in Groningen, Holland when the war ended. He returned to Canada in late 1945 and was discharged from the army on December 5th, 1945.

On February 22nd, 1946 he married Bertha Miller in Medicine Hat and together they made their home in the city. Hugh was involved in the Boy Scout movement as Scout Leader and District Commissioner. He also coached Little League for twelve years. Hugh was employed with the CPR for a few years until he began his twenty year career with the City of Medicine Hat. He retired in January 1980 as Deputy Assessor. Following retirement he and Bertha enjoyed travelling to many parts of the country.

Back to top