Obituaries

Huggard – Ryan Wesley Huggard beloved son of Larry and Kristine Huggard, passed away on Tuesday November 5^th, 2019 in Duchess at the age of 34 years. Ryan was born on September 20^th, 1985 in Red Deer, Ab. Ryan grew up on his Grampa Pete’s ranch in Lathom, Ab. Ryan attended elementary school in Bassano until grade 5, then moved to St Joseph’s Collegiate in Brooks, where he graduated grade 12. While in Jr./Sr. High School Ryan, found his love for music playing in the school band, playing basketball, junior high football with the Roadrunners and 1 season with the Buffalo’s, indoor soccer in Duchess, Ryan also loved and excelled in karate for many years. He was also involved in 4-H with both Bassano and Brooks 4-H Clubs for many years. After high school, Ryan worked various jobs in the oil industry and welding shops working towards his welding apprenticeship. He also spent a few years back at the family ranch in Lathom. Recently Ryan was starting a small business using his welding skills to create artistic metal art out of horseshoes and barb wire. Ryan was predeceased by his Grandparents Peter and Francis Steinbach. He is survived by his sons, Dante and Cayden of Kindersley, Sk; parents, Larry and Kristine Huggard of Duchess; sister Jessie (Blane) Langdon and their daughter Kyra of Edson; brother James Huggard of Brooks; sister Kylie Huggard son Mason and fiancée Terence Eckes of Brooks; grandmother Alice Huggard of Calgary; grandparents Bob and Pat Kent of Calgary and their son Rob (Michelle) and their children Taylor and Tyson of Lacombe, Ab. and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces. A Celebration of Life was held on Thursday, November 14^th at 2:00 PM at the Duchess Mennonite Church. Rev. Alvin Penner officiating. In memory of Ryan if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Cremation is entrusted to Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM

BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”

Anhorn – Anthony Anhorn of Brooks, beloved husband of Mona Anhorn, passed away peacefully in his sleep, in Brooks on Sunday, November 3^rd, 2019 at the age of 84 years. Tony was born 18 miles outside of Walsh, Saskatchewan on May 10^th, 1935 to Gottlieb and Maria Anhorn, into a large family of 11 brothers and sisters. He moved to Calgary, where he met and married Mona Bloomberg and they started their family. Tony worked at the Union Packing Plant for 10 years and then began a 33 year career with MacDonald’s Consolidated, retiring in 1998. He moved to Brooks in 1999, to be closer to his family and grandchildren. Tony loved music and playing the accordion, which he taught himself to play and loved to entertain his family and grandchildren. He had a big heart and lived life to the fullest. Tony was predeceased by his parents Maria and Gottlieb in 1969, son Darrell in 1987 and son-in-law Charlie in 2002, as well as many of his brothers and sisters. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mona; daughters, Debbie (Ernie) Shuttleworth and Terry Anhorn; grandchildren, Morgan, Cameron, Mackenzie and Sydney and brothers Eddy and Elmer Anhorn. The family wishes to thank Dr. van der Linde for his kindness and compassion, as well as the nurses at the Brooks Health Centre. As per Anthony’s wishes there will be no funeral service. In memory of Anthony, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, Box 2211, Lethbridge, Alberta   T1J 4K7.

Cremation is entrusted to Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM

BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”

Taylor – It is with great sadness that the family of Brian George Taylor, beloved husband of the late Vicky Taylor, announces his peacefully passing in Medicine Hat, AB. on Wednesday, November 6^th, 2019 at the age of 71 years. Brian was born on November 7^th, 1947 in Claresholm, Alberta to Alvin and Dorothy Taylor. He spent the majority of his life living in Brooks, with his loving wife Vicky. He supported his family by working as a heavy duty mechanic at Smith Brook Trucking. Brian enjoyed spending his time fishing and camping with his family. He was very involved with his church and the community around him. Brain and Vicky had 3 wonderful children, Belle Taylor (Pete Wollman), Bess Sveum (Kyle Tokamp) and Vernon Taylor. He also was blessed with 5 grandchildren, Denelle Tremblay, Aaron Tremblay (Mikayla Tremblay), Jeffery Sveum, Brandon Sveum and Chelsea Taylor and two great grandchildren, Alyssa Jasman and Kash Jasman. Brian was a very patient, caring and selfless man. He will always be remembered and missed by many. A Funeral Mass was Celebrated on Tuesday, November 12^th at 10:00 AM from St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rev. Marino Infante Celebrant. Interment at Brooks Cemetery. In memory of Brian, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to St. Vincent de Paul, c/o St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Box 578, Brooks, Alberta   T1R 1B5.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM

BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”

Stewart Gerald Gilborn, born March 23rd 1942, passed away at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital on Nov 2nd, after a lengthy battle with cancer.
He is survived by his daughter LaRae (Wayne) Murphy of Duchess, grandchildren, Brett, Kasey, Leah (Caleb), daughter in-law Karen Gilborn, grandchildren, Madison, Shelby, Jonathon of Duchess, sister in-law Neva (Robert) McNab of Lethbridge, sister Beryl Sudo (Bob), brothers Garry Gilborn (Diane), Rick Gilborn, (Ilene), Brian Gilborn, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife Gayla, son Layne, parents Dan and Eva.
My feisty father lived a full life, married 52 years to his greatest love, Gayla. When mom passed away in 2016, this left an unimaginable and at times unbearable hole in his heart. Friends and family visiting were his salvation. He had many lasting, loyal friendships, people who kept in touch over time and great distances as he was a great conversationalist, with endless funny sayings and stories we will always cherish.
Dad was an avid sports guy; fastball, fishing, and curling kept him active and connected socially. Summers were meant for camping with extended family, Lake 5 being a favorite. Golfing in Palm Springs provided a winter break. He reminisced often about his basketball days growing up in Coutts; perhaps this is why he chose a career teaching Phys Ed, leaving a better paying job at Lethbridge Brewery to return to University. Supporting his young wife and two children while at school fulltime, was not easy. His work ethic and commitment to both: admirable.
His teaching career spanned 31 years, with many moves and a final stint at University to get his Masters, settling in Brooks in 1979 as Principal of the new Griffin Park School. Our home was the focus of many staff parties and family get-togethers; he could whip up an excellent prime rib and French onion soup! He had a huge heart when it came to youth, none being more important than his own children and later grandchildren. Griffin Park became the hub of fundraising efforts for the Children’s Dreams Foundation. He was so proud of Brooks and the surrounding community for their generous support of these auctions. Always community-minded, Dad was a long time Kinsmen member, serving on City Council and – from the look of his resume – Chaired and Directed everything. He supported many local fundraisers, especially Ducks Unlimited, as he loved pheasant hunting.
Dad retired from teaching in 2000, working alongside his son Layne in house construction until relocating to Lethbridge; a move for Mom, he would say. As he slowed down, reading a book a day was not uncommon, but he always preferred a phone call or visit and looked forward to outings and company. Not one to mince words, ferociously independent to the end, and steadfast in his beliefs, he respected integrity and intelligence. He believed in giving back and pulling one’s weight. To a life well-lived, Dad – Rest easy.
A family service will be held Nov 18th in Lethbridge. In lieu of flowers, dad would love if you helped a child or children’s charity or, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 – 10th St. South Lethbridge, AB T1J 2M7 – http://www.cancer.ca, would be appreciated.

Cornelius Plett, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Ramona passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019 at Good Samaritans Society (Park Meadows Village) in Lethbridge at the age of 84 years; 3 days short of his 85th birthday. He is survived by his son Neil Plett of Lethbridge and numerous, brothers, sisters and other family members. Funeral Services will be held at Gem Mennonite Church on Friday, Nov. 8 at 2:00 pm, with graveside services to follow at Gem Cemetery. Pastor Lawrence Hiebert Officiating. In memory of Cornelius, if family or friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to either STARS Air Ambulance or Alberta Diabetes Foundation by mail at 8602 – 112 Street University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1. For further information, to leave a message of condolence or to light a candle in memory of Cornelius, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.

Hofmann – Garry Jerome of Wardlow, Alberta, beloved husband of the late Carol Hofmann (Smith), passed away suddenly at his home in Wardlow on Tuesday October 29^th, 2019, at the age of 74 years. He was born and raised in Scandia, Alberta on August 28^th, 1945 to Jerome and Jean Hofmann. Garry shared his life with Carol in businesses that took them from the Alberta hay fields to construction, shipping in the Arctic and the ice road adventures in the Northwest Territories then back to the Alberta Oilfields. Garry’s love for the north runs richly through his veins. Garry was predeceased by his wife Carol; their daughter Rhea Elody; his father Jerome and brother Aloise. Left to cherish their memories of Garry are his mother Jean; his daughters, Melissa (Wayne), Natel (Tim) and Jackie; his beloved grandchildren, Jaedan, Danae, Makenna, Adison, Ryder, Trystan, Emersyn, Ryann, Harper, Jordan, Jeremy, Jacob and great granddaughter Brinley; his siblings Richard, Mable, Jeanette (Hayward), Anita, Brian (Jerry) and Ramona (Phil), many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday November 6^th, 2019 at 2:00 PM at Cassils Community Centre. In memory of Garry, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to either the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, Box 2211, Lethbridge, Alberta   T1J 4K7 or Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, 666 – 5^th Street SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta   T1A 4H6.

Cremation is entrusted to Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM

BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

VARGA  Chris

July 22, 1979 –  October 27, 2019

Christopher John  Varga of Brooks,  Alberta passed away tragically at the age of forty years in Calgary on October 27, 2019.

Chris is survived by his son, Tristen Hunter and his mother, Karen L. Schmitke of Brooks along with his grandmother Jean Ahlstrom of Westlock. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

There will be a celebration of life November 9, 2019 between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion in Brooks, Alberta

Family and Friends can share memories of this beloved soul to remember what a joy he was.

To my son, the joy of my life and the other half of my heart. You are kept safely behind one of my windows to my soul and are desperately missed by many. It calms me during this trying time knowing that you are looking down on all of us, watching and smiling, now that you are in a better place. Westlock Funeral Home & Crematorium Ltd. (780-349-3474)

Love you my Son, Mom

BAUER – Eleanor Arlene Bauer, beloved wife of John Penner passed away at the Brooks Health Centre on Thursday, October 24, 2019 at the age of 79 years. Ellie is also survived by her children Doug (Rose) Bauer, Darlene (Roger) Stein and grandson Sylvan as well as many extended family members, whom she loved dearly. Ellie, the youngest of seven children, was born July 17, 1940 to Christy and Florence Tiegs and grew up on the family farm just east of Brooks, Alberta. Educated in Brooks she began her working life at the Brooks Bakery, next at AGT as a telephone operator where she met her husband Don Bauer. After the children started school, Ellie continued at AGT and later secretarial work at the Provincial Building, Asgrow Seeds, Modern Auto Service, Farmstead Builders and finally at the Royal Bank in Calgary. Retiring in 1996, Ellie and John became full-time RVers, travelling extensively throughout Canada and the US and wintering in Arizona. In later years, Ellie and John kept a home base, often relocating, but Brooks would always be called home. Socializing with family and friends made Ellie very happy. She enjoyed playing her accordion, gardening, sewing, camping, fishing, playing cards, cooking, baking and especially watching her beloved Blue Jays. In her younger years she was a member of the OORP and enjoyed horseback riding, bowling and playing softball. Ellie will live on in our hearts always! Ellie was predeceased by her parents, Christy and Florence Tiegs and her siblings Joyce, Alan, Ken, Art, Don and Lois. Special thanks go out to the Doctors and staff at the Brooks Health Centre for the care Mom received in her final months. A celebration of life for Ellie will be held at Thom’s Funeral Home and Reception Centre on Friday, November 1, 2019 at 1:00 PM. In memory of Ellie, donations may be made to the Prairie Rose Hospice Palliative Care Society. Address: Bag 300, 440 3 St. East Brooks, AB T1R 1B3 www.prairierosehospice.ca. For further information, to leave a message of condolence or to light a candle in memory of Ellie, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.

Hofer – It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our Nana, Mother, Sister, Wife and friend, Isabel Lorriane (Murray) Hofer on October 24^th, 2019 at the age of 68 years.  Isabel was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan in 1951 and was raised on South Hill where she developed lifelong relationships with her Moose Jaw friends which she cherished her whole life.  In 1966 her family moved to Brooks, AB which she would call home for the next 53 years.  It was here that Isabel met John, the love of her life and they were married on October 3^rd, 1970.  They just recently celebrated their 49th Wedding Anniversary.  Isabel loved visiting and entertaining with friends and family with the Hofer household the central hub for many family and friend gatherings.  In her younger years she loved nothing more than to listen to music, sing and dance.  Her and John would frequent Blood Indian to camp and fish on the weekends as long as John would worm her hook and remove all the fish she would catch.  She was an active member of Ben’s Bowling and passed this activity onto her children.  Isabel loved traveling and the time spent with John the most.  With summer camping trips to the mountains when the boys were young; the wild and adventurous trips to the Okanogan; long haul trucking with John when the kids got older; and in retirement, pointing the motorhome south and wintering in Arizona and Mexico with close friends and family. Isabel could always be found reading a book, was an avid card player, and loved her flowers and backyard which John would maintain and take orders for.  Isabel cherished the arrival of her grandchild and time with all her family members.  Isabel suffered from Rheumatoid Arthritis for most of adult life and consciously choose to be grateful and happy despite the countless pain and suffering she endured.  Isabel was loyal to a fault and taught her family to be patient, to love unconditionally and how to find joy and peace even in the darkest of moments.  The family has been so moved and appreciative of the love, care and support from Isabel’s close friends, her Moose Jaw connection, extended family and the medical services provided by Dr. Martin (rheumatologist), Dr. Thompson (family doctor), and the staff at Peter Lougheed Centre and the Brooks Health Centre.  Isabel is survived by her loving husband John and their children Jaret and his spouse Kami (Cobey, Cali, Ella and Parker), Jason and his wife Candace (Brayden), Joe (Chase).  Her step sisters Cathy and Ginny, Judy, Tracy, Natalie, Raye, and Toni, step brother Laird, and her nieces Christy, Vicki, Sonya and families.  She was predeceased by her mother Dorthy and step-father Jake Enns, her step-mother Betty Enns, brother Walter Murray, sister-in-law Marlene Neal and step brothers Chris Enns and Barry McMillan.  A Memorial Service will be held at Cassils Community Centre on Sunday November 10^th, 2019 at 2:30 PM with a Celebration of Life to follow in Hofer style with food, drinks, music, stories and laughter.  In memory of Isabel, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to Brooks and District Health Foundation, Bag 300, Brooks, Alberta   T1R 1B3.

Cremation is entrusted to Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM

BROOKS, ALBERTA

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”

Boldick – Vi Boldick passed away on October 23^rd, 2019 at 94 years of age, in Brooks, Alberta. She was born May Violet Richardson in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan in 1925. She married Vernon LeRoy Boldick (deceased) in 1944. Vi served in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps in WWII. Throughout her life her focus was her family, but she was also active in the Royal Canadian Legion and the Rebekahs. For years she worked side by side with her husband Vern in the family pharmacy. She lived and worked in Maple Creek, Wilkie, and North Battleford, Saskatchewan, and Camrose, Medicine Hat and Brooks, Alberta. Vi is survived by her sons George Boldick (Maggie), Vern Boldick (Susan) and Bob Boldick (Cindy) and her daughter Kate Nonesuch (Evelyn Battell); eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and several beloved nephews and nieces. Funeral services were held on Monday, October 28^th at 2:00 PM from the Brooks United Church. Rev. Esther Crews officiating. Interment followed at Brooks Cemetery, Field of Honour. In memory of Violet, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

For updated Funeral Service announcements please visit   www.sfh.ca

Funeral arrangements entrusted to:

SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM BROOKS, ALBERTA 

Condolences may be forwarded through   www.sfh.ca

Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652

“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”