Obituaries

Vivian Kennedy

December 4, 1934 ~ April 1, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Eleanor Vivian Kennedy (nee Bradshaw) announce her peaceful passing at the age of 87 years. She     transitioned on Friday, April 1, 2022, at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital with her husband and family by her side. Vivian was born in Binscarth, Manitoba and raised on her family’s large farm. She was the oldest of four  siblings and was fully immersed in every element of working the farm from a young age. Vivian had a life-long love of animals (particularly horses) and was an excellent rider. As an avid gardener and lover of nature and the outdoors, she knew everything there was to know about life on a farm and the natural cycles of the seasons and life. After high school, Vivian completed teachers’ college in Waskada, Manitoba and there, met the love of her life, Cecil Kennedy. They were married in 1957 and Vivian went on to complete a nursing degree, while her husband completed his studies and apprenticeship as a mechanic. Vivian lived a life of great adventure with her husband at her side. They moved across the country to the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia and adopted two children, Sean, and Payton Lynne. Vivian relished her new role as full-time mother and created a life for her family multiple times over as they made various moves to different towns and cities in Western Canada. Vivian was a quick study and made fast friends wherever she landed, becoming a beloved member of each community she lived in. Vivian was charming and personable; she was highly intelligent and always ready to lend a hand. She was a strong and resilient woman – the person many would come to for help, especially in challenging times. She was a member of the Alberta Women’s Institute and TOPS, and a community volunteer with various organizations throughout her life. She enjoyed reading, curling, square dancing and roaming around Canada and the US with Cecil, camping out in their trailer with new and old friends. Vivian also had a keen interest in healthy living and was always reading and researching different health and wellness practices. She practiced yoga and other healing modalities at a time when most hadn’t heard of any such thing. She always sought to spend time in spiritual study on her own and with her Church community. Vivian is survived by her beloved husband Cecil Kennedy; her son Sean Kennedy (Tracy, Chandra, Belinda, Mitchell, Raeme and Leif); daughter Payton Lynne Kennedy (Greyson); sister Marlene Jones (Barb, Bev and Bruce); brother Gary Bradshaw (Jamie, Nolan and Christie) as well as her sister-in-law Peggy Bradshaw (Neil and Kevin). She is predeceased by her parents Rex and Dorothy Bradshaw; nephew Brent; eldest brother Murray Bradshaw and her brother-in-law Dave Jones. An interment ceremony will take place in the family plot in Binscarth, Manitoba at a later date in 2022. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com). Honoured to serve the family is LOGO

Zimmerman – It is with great sadness that the family of Paul Joseph Zimmerman, beloved husband of Charlene Zimmerman, passed away in Medicine Hat Hospital on Saturday, April 09^th, 2022 at the age of 71. Paul was born on June 27^th, 1950 in Estevan, Saskatchewan to Anthony and Germaine Zimmerman. He was the second of six children. Paul grew up on the family farm, until his mom moved them to Estevan, where he met his high school sweetheart Charlene Rheindel, in 1967. On August 7^th, 1971, Paul married Charlene in Estevan, and then they lived in Calgary until 1973, when they moved and made Brooks their home. His love for the Oil and Gas industry started with his first job at Brooks Field Service. In 1980, Paul co-owned Diamond Service Rigs and sold it in 1993 then formed Diamond Z Consulting Ltd., until he retired. In August 2021, Paul celebrated his 50^th wedding anniversary with Charlene. Paul was predeceased by his parents, Anthony Zimmerman and Germaine Carlson; stepfather Don Carlson; in-laws, Werner and Veronica Rheindel; grandson Mackenzie Hegland; brothers-in-law, John Rheindel and Gene Choma. Paul’s most treasured and proudest moments were of his grandchildren over the past 24 years. Since retirement he would ask and just want them there with him every day. They already miss his teasing and making them laugh. Their love for their Papa will remain forever. Paul is survived by his wife Charlene; daughter Cindy (Mike) Hegland and their sons, Mitchell and Myles; son Jeremy Zimmerman and his sons, Nate and Trae; daughter Christina (Leon) Fry and their children Caitrin, Gracie, and Jax; daughter Angela (Ryan) Hicks and their daughter Verra; five siblings, Eileen (Ron) Schiffner, David (Maxine) Zimmerman, Diane (Peter) Dengler, Bebeanne (Peter) Faulkner and Gerard Zimmerman, and their families; sisters-in-law Susan Choma, Dorrine Rheindel and Eileen (Ron) Gosselin; brother-in-law, Leonard (Rose) Rheindel, and their families. The family would like to thank Dr. Kadima and staff in the ER at Brooks Health Centre, and to the doctors and staff on 4West at Medicine Hat Hospital for their compassionate care of Paul. Only one night in hospital. As per his wishes there will be no public service. The family will have their own celebration of Paul’s life.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at

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”

Doreen Medway of Brooks, Alberta passed away peacefully in the Calgary Foothills Hospital, surrounded by family on March 29, 2022 at the age of 67. Doreen was born in Brooks, Alberta to her parents, Sverre (Tiny) and Jean Slorstad. She grew up in Sunnynook, AB on the family farm with her brothers and family.  She attended New Cessord School and had many lifelong connections and friendships from her childhood. She longed for more than just country living and moved to Brooks shortly after graduating Grade 12, where she worked as a waitress and met her late husband, Jack Medway. In 1974, while pursuing her post-secondary studies, she travelled to Switzerland to study Fashion at The American Fashion School of Switzerland, with her Cousin Louise. She developed a love for culture and a desire to see more of the world and the people in it. This would spark her passion to help others later in life.
Soon after returning back to Canada, she was married and expecting their first child. Jack and Doreen resided in Brooks, AB where they would raise their 3 children together. Doreen enjoyed being a mom and was actively involved with her children as they grew up. She loved to volunteer in all activities her children were involved in and many great lifelong  friendships were made. She helped with creating and sewing costumes for Brooks Figure Skating Club for many years and was a talented seamstress. Doreen was also a member of the Brooks Dress Club for many years and her children knew how much she needed and enjoyed spending time with these friends.
Doreen and Jack had 3 children together Tanya, Cindy and Tyler and seven grandchildren. They were one of the first families to live full time at Kinbrook Island Provincial Park year-round making the summer cabin their home at the Lake. Many happy years were spent there with family and friends. As Doreen’s children grew up she continued her passion with helping others and her community.  In the early 2000’s Doreen was instrumental in helping with the influx of New Canadians who came to Brooks. She started her immigration career with Saamis Immigration out of Medicine Hat  as a Settlement Councillor.  As the need in the community grew for settlement services,  Doreen played a vital role in the creation of Global Friendship Immigration Center  and was the Executive Director until it was closed.  She made many connections throughout the community and is known as  “Mama Doreen” to many that settled in Brooks. In her later years, Doreen spent her time with her partner Ali and continued to work from home helping many New Canadian families. She loved to cook and often had a new recipe she found that she wanted to cook for her friends and family.   She will always be remembered for her generosity and devotion to helping others who needed it. She was pre-deceased by her parents Tiny and Jean Slorstad, and her late husband Jack Medway. She is survived by her partner Ali Kiza of Brooks, her children Tanya Medway (Fazal) of Brooks, Cindy Voutier (Kevin) of Bow City and Tyler Medway (Cara) of Grand Prairie. Her brothers Brad (Norma) and Kevin (Teresa) Slorstad of Sunnynook.  She also leaves behind seven grandchildren (Taylor Marie, Nixon, Aydan, Aryn, Hayden and Quin) and numerous great aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A family service will be held at a later date.

WOODMAN – William Gifford Woodman of Bassano passed away on April 6, 2022 at the age of 54 years. William was born in Calgary on October 5, 1967 and moved at a young age to Baynes Lake, B.C. William received his schooling in Jaffray, B.C. and enjoyed spending time outdoors and fishing the local hotspots. William was always improving his skills and knowledge and after high school he attended Lethbridge Community College. William was employed at JBS and later became employed within the security sector where again he continued adding to his skills by receiving various job-related skill certifications. He was a kind, gentle man with a love for people and a great sense of humor. William was fond of animals and very much enjoyed following hockey (he actually knew everything about hockey), growing up playing slow pitch and collecting comics and weekly local poker nights with friends. William was a big man with a big heart and loved his family dearly; especially his young grandson Gunner. William was predeceased by his father Bill; uncle Richard Springer; mother-in-law Marie Dodge and cousin Donnie Wayne Woodman. He is survived by his three children; Aaron Woodman, Morgan Woodman, Tyrone Woodman; sister Candiss Woodman; mother Elizabeth Woodman; grandson Gunner William Sanchez; son-in-law Austin Sanchez as well as numerous other friends and family members. In memory of William, if family or friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to Brooks Animal Protection Society (BAPS). For further information or to leave a message of sympathy, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.

Henrickson – Doug Henrickson of Patricia, AB, passed away peacefully at his home on April 6^th, 2022 at the age of 87.  Doug was born in his parent’s home near Patricia on April 12^th, 1934. Doug and Jean were married in 1960.  Doug only moved once in his lifetime, in 1966, he moved from his dad’s yard to his current home that he and Jean built and lived in.  Together they farmed and raised their three boys, Rod, Gary and Will.  Jean passed away in 1986.  Doug’s many interests included hunting, fishing, wood carving, sketching and most sports.  Doug married Lula in 1989.  Doug and Lula spent winters travelling the southern USA, visiting friends and making memory’s that were told and enjoyed many times over.  Summers were spent working on the ranch with most evenings spent around the fire pit having Happy Hour.  Lula passed away in 2012. Doug was predeceased by his parents Alma and Harvey Henrickson as well as by his brothers, Bryce, Keith and Clint and his nephew, Glenn and great niece, Illissa.  Doug is survived by his sons, Rod; Gary (Irene) and their children Quinn, Garrett and Liam; Will (Shauna) and their children Ashley (Jan), Amy (Tyler) and Ty (Cassidy).  There will be a Memorial Service on Thursday, April 14^th, 2022 at 3:00 PM from the Patricia Hall. Interment at Patricia Cemetery.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at

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”

Hironaka – Tsuyoshi Hironaka (Tiosh) of Rosemary, AB, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 6^th, 2022 in Brooks at the age of 89, with family by his side.  He was born on July 16^th, 1932 to parents Kaisuke and Yoshino Hironaka in Raymond, AB and the eldest of 5 children.  Tiosh is survived by his wife Mariko of 55 years: 4 children, Ken (Cindy), Julie (Mike), Grant and Mark; 3 grandchildren, Jordan, Danika and Dane; sisters, Hiroko and Sumie; brother-in-law Hiroshi and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his sisters, Sadako and Tomoe (Shig); brothers-in-law Mitsugi and Chuck and nephews Jim and Grant.  His family moved to the Rosemary farm when he was a teen, Tiosh attended the Rosemary High School, SAIT in Calgary and spent the remainder of his life in Rosemary except for a short stint at Sunrise Gardens in Brooks, where he and Mariko were well taken care of.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 14^th at 2:00PM from the Heritage Inn and Convention Centre, 1217 – 2nd Street West, Brooks.  Rev. Yasuo Izumi officiating.  Interment to follow at Brooks Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations can be made directly to any Mental Health organizations.

Live Streaming of the Funeral Services is scheduled to be available to the public.

You can view the Funeral Service by clicking on “Live Video” on the top right hand side of

Smith Funeral Home’s Website or clicking on the “Click Here” in blue letters,

just below recent obituaries.

Streaming is scheduled to start approximately 10 – 15 minutes prior to services.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted by

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”

ELLINGSON – Arnold (Swede) Ellingson passed away peacefully at his home in Brooks, AB on Saturday, April 17^th, 2021. His wife of 60-plus years, Barbara (nee Snell), was holding his hand as a tender Willie Nelson song coaxed him to rest. The Ellingson family would like to invite all his family and friends to help celebrate Swede’s life on Saturday, May 14^th, 2022 at 1:00 PM at the Heritage Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in Brooks, AB

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”

HOWES – ARTHUR L. HOWES
Arthur was born to Alex and Eva Howes on August 7th, 1937 in Swift Current, Sask. and passed away in Brooks Health Centre on April 5th at the age of 84.
The Howes family moved west to the Cochrane area when Arthur was 5 years old where they settled and opened up a lumber mill. Arthur met and married his wife Valerie in 1960 and together they had four children. Art was predeceased by his wife Valerie in 2019 and his son Archie in 1988. He is survived by two daughters, Tammy (Arnie) Lawrence of Lacombe, Rose Matheson of Brooks and her son Cory (Heather) Howes of Blackfalds, four granddaughters: Angela (Mike) Onda and Amanda (Mike) Vermeersch all of Brooks, Kanddice Howes of Pincher Creek and Georgia Lynn Howes of Red Deer, five great-grandchildren: Trystin, Morgan, Jordan Onda, and Taiten, Daxten Vermeersch all of Brooks. Art also leaves behind two sisters, Pearl (Norman) Hopkins and Mae Sauvey, a brother Gordon (Elly) Howes and sister-in-laws Louise Howes and Diane Walker-Howes as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
At Arthur’s request, there will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Arthur’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. 15p

SMITH – WILLIAM DALE SMITH, beloved husband of Esther, passed away in Brooks on Friday, April 1^st, 2022 at the age of 96 years. Dale was born on April 2^nd, 1925 on the family farm at Abercrombie, SK. He grew up on the farm moving to Kingston, Ontario in 1943 to enlist in the Canadian Army Signal Corp. Dale received an Honorable Discharge in 1945, after contracting Scarlet Fever. It was then that Dale decided he wanted to be a Funeral Director. He apprenticed at Truscott Brothers Funeral Home in Hamilton, receiving his Ontario License in 1947. Dale and Esther were married in Hamilton on October 31^st, 1944. They moved to Calgary, where Dale worked at Jacques Funeral Home. He had to re-apprentice to receive his Alberta Funeral Director’ License, which he received in 1951. He moved his family to Brooks that same year and began Smith Funeral Home, which he operated until his retirement. Dale was involved in many organizations through the years – serving as Town Councilor from 1971 to 1977 and then as Mayor from 1977 to 1980 and Member and Chairman of the Brooks and District Hospital Board for a total of ten years. Dale was a man who truly loved the Lord. He was a member of the Brooks E Free Church. Dale is survived by his loving wife Esther; his two daughters Donna and Carol; his son Ron and their families. He was predeceased by two daughters Linda and Sharon. Dale will be best remembered for the love for his family, his sense of humour and his love of travelling. Funeral services were held on Friday, April 8^th, at 11:00 AM from the Brooks E Free Church. Pastor Garth Everett officiating. Interment followed at Brooks Cemetery. In memory of Dale, if friends desire memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of your choice.

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”

Beasley – It’s with sadness that we announce the passing of Sylvia June Beasley (Leighton) on March 28^th, 2022 peacefully in her sleep.  Small Blessings.  Sylvia was born in Toronto June 15^th, 1942 to her parents Ivan and Cleo Leighton.  The family traveled and settled in Brooks in 1959, where Ivan was employed as the manager of Alberta Gas Trunkline.  Shortly after arriving Sylvia met her future husband Leonard and it was love at first sight.  She always said he looked like a young Elvis.  A family treasure is a picture taken on the day they met. We celebrate Syl and Len’s wedding anniversary on April 2^nd, 1960.  They spent many happy years in Brooks raising their children Karri Lynn (Derick) Potts and Stephen Todd (Charlene) Beasley.  Syl and Len lived life to the fullest.  They travelled widely and always enjoyed a good time.  Leonard passed at an early age and Sylvia was left with his memory which she cherished dearly.  Syl had a passionate love of animals and was a big personality to those who knew her. She loved her family and had a strong sense of right and wrong.  She donated many hours to BAPS, where she would take animals for long walks.  Her friends meant the world to her.  Sylvia is survived by her children and her sister Valerie (Edward) Buteau and her brother Blair (Marilyn) Leighton together with numerous nieces and nephews.  As per her wishes there will not be a funeral.  The family will hold a grave side internment ceremony on April 14^th at 11.00 AM at the Brooks Cemetery officiated by Rev Ken Wells.  A luncheon will be held 12:00 noon at the Brooks EID Legion, where Syl’s friends are most welcome to come by and celebrate her life and share memories.  The family wishes to thank all those who’ve passed on kind words of condolences.  Your best wishes are appreciated more than words can say.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted by

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”