All Obituaries

Pastor Rudolph “Rudy” Heidebrecht, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Mary Heidebrecht, passed away at Sunny South Lodge on Saturday, July 5, 2025 at the age of 93 years.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 8:00pm and 9:00pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPELS, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

There will be an opportunity for a viewing at 12:00pm on Friday, July 11, 2025 at the COALDALE MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, 2114 – 18 Street, Coaldale, Alberta.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, July 11, 2025 at the COALDALE MENNONITE CEMETERY.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, July 11, 2025 at the COALDALE MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, 2114 – 18 Street Coaldale with Pastor Gary Burke officiating.

With shattered hearts, we announce the passing of our precious baby girl, Sofia Fiselier, who was born on June 29 and left us far too soon on June 30, 2025.

Sofia was the beloved daughter of Anya and Mark Fiselier. In her brief time on earth, she brought so much light and love that will remain with us forever. She was deeply cherished by her grandparents Olga and Igor Kovalchuk, and Barbara and Gary Fiselier.

She is lovingly remembered by her great-grandmothers Valentina Titova and Lyubov Kovalchuk, great-aunt Lyubov Titova (Artur Teymurazyan), cousins Sasha and Gregory, uncle Eric Fiselier (Megan), and many other family members who hold her in their hearts.

Sofia joins in peace her great-grandfathers Viktor Titov and Peter Kovalchuk, and many other loved ones who went before her.

A private funeral will be held on July 5th at 11:00 AM at the Dormition of the Holy Theotokos Orthodox Church, followed by interment at Mountain View Cemetery, where Sofia will rest within sight of her great-grandfather.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for prayers, privacy, and, for those who wish, donations to the Foothills Hospital NICU in memory of Sofia.

Marv Imeson, of Lethbridge, Alberta, beloved husband of Colleen Imeson, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the age of 82 years.

Marv is survived by his wife Colleen, his daughter Jody (Paul), son Wade, grandchild Sheadin, and brother Larry.

Marv was born to Margaret and Rex Imeson on March 2, 1943 in Lethbridge, AB. All his schooling was in Lethbridge. In his youth, Marv enjoyed many sports including fastball, broomball, snow and water skiing, and hunting. He also enjoyed watching sports and would “watch anything with a score,” but especially enjoyed the Oilers & Blue Jays.

After a short plumbing career, he started his training for the Edmonton Police Force. He had to spend 2 years in records as he wasn’t 21 and he couldn’t get into the bars to respond to a call.  In 1964, on Marv’s 21st birthday, Marv & Colleen were married. Marv joined the Lethbridge Police Force in 1966, until joining Labatt’s in 1976. They transferred several times in the prairie provinces before returning to Lethbridge in 2002.

Through his life and careers, he had met & maintained life-long friendships which he enjoyed until his last day. He was, at one time, the President of the Lethbridge Police Veterans Association. He was also a past board member for the Lethbridge & District Exhibition, and was very involved in rodeo throughout his life. He was instrumental to securing Labatt’s sponsorship of rodeo across Western Canada. People will remember his loud, distinctive laugh, and the strong, caring man that he was.

He is predeceased by his parents Rex & Margaret Imeson.

Marv’s cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

At Marv’s Request, no funeral service will be held.

“Perhaps just one more.”

It is with heavy, yet grateful hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Mom, Catherine ‘Kay’ Martin, beloved wife of the late Dale Martin Sr., in the wee hours of the morning on June 25, 2025 at the age of 90 years. Mom was a true lady until the very end.

Mom was born on December 13, 1934 in Kinkaid Saskatchewan to Michael and Della Mae Salmon. They moved to Spring Coulee before settling in Granum, Alberta. Mom was always proud of her Granum heritage. Every time we would pass the little town Mom would proudly boast of her family owning the Alberta Hotel. Later Mom moved to Lethbridge and was able to attend and graduate from St. Joseph’s High School. She was excited to be able to attend a Catholic School as her Catholic faith was extremely important to her. We remember Mom complaining about some of the students being unkind to the nun instructors. This was devastating for her, and she would always come to the Nun’s defense.

Following high school, Mom worked at CJOC Radio. It was here that a strapping young man spotted her and had to make her his wife. On June 2, 1956 Dale and Kay were married and went on to build a family together. Grounded in love, and service to community, Dale and Kay bought Martin Brothers Ltd. from Dale’s dad and uncle, Ben and Harry and later from his brother Derek. They worked hard to build a funeral home that would meet the needs of families in Lethbridge and surrounding areas. It was a calling for them.

Independently, Mom was involved in several service groups. She was a member of both Ladies Hospital Auxiliaries (Municipal and St. Michael’s), Beta Sigma Phi, and the Parish Council of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church. Mom also sang joyfully in both the St. Patrick’s and All Saint’s Parish church choirs. From a young age, Mom discovered her love of music, which carried throughout her life.

In retirement, Mom and Dad enjoyed travel. They cruised to many different countries, but their favorite spot to settle was in Sun City, Arizona where they would enjoy the sun and loved happy hours with friends. There was always a glass of wine or a Harvey Wallbanger for anyone who came by. Mom loved her pool in the desert. She loved bird watching, trimming her rose bushes but most of all she loved her fruit trees. Whenever we went to visit, Mom would wake us up with glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice with a couple cubes of ice to make it cold.

Mom and Dad also loved their time at the cottage in Waterton Lakes National Park. Mom loved to pack a lunch for us as we would head out for a day on the lake, often heading down to Goat Haunt south of the border. As a spouse to a Rotarian, every year Rotarians would gather either in Waterton or in Glacier National Park and celebrate our unity between the two countries, “Hands across the border”.

Dale and Kay were blessed with three children, Elizabeth (Gordon) Jong, Dale (Colleen) Martin Jr., and Catherine (Brian) Weersink; grandchildren Terrah Jong, Christopher (Carla) Jong, Will Martin, Jack Martin, Adam (Rhiece) Weersink, Austin (Amanda) Weersink, Arik (Jaida Baber) Weersink; great grandchildren Grayson and Aubrey Jong and the latest addition Oliver Weersink; as well as numerous extended family.

Besides her loving husband Dale Martin Sr., Kay is predeceased by her parents Michael and Della Mae Salmon; siblings Jessalyn (Woody) Anderson, Jean Lemiski, Maxine Deringer and James “Jimmy” Salmon.

Mom has been waiting for God to call her. She often asked, "Has God forgotten me?" No God has not forgotten you Mom. He has been waiting for the right time. Your time has come Mom. Now, go sing with the angels.

A Vigil Rights/Prayer Service will be held at 7:00pm, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am, Thursday, July 3, 2025, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 12 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Father Kevin Tumback, celebrant.

Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery

For those who wish, memorial donations in Kay’s name may be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, for the Cardiac Centre of Excellence.

Mr. Marcus “Mark” Peter Mandel of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, June 23, 2025 at the age of 67 years.

Marcus was born in Pincher Creek, Alberta to Peter and Elizabeth Mandel. His greatest pride was his precious son Justin, whom he loved and adored with all of his heart.

Marcus was raised on the farm. His friendly personality throughout school years and to his last day was his passion. Love and forgiveness became his focus! He received the personality award of his graduation class at Matthew Halton High School. Most of all his family was proud of the 40 years he represented Coca-Cola Amalgamated Beverages. He loved his job and all of the customers and mostly his work buddies. He will be remembered by his heart as big as an ocean. He loved singing and playing his guitar. Marcus was baptized at the Park Meadows Baptist Church as an adult on the confession of his faith in Jesus Christ alone. Recently joining the Evangelical Free Church membership.

Marcus leaves behind his beloved son Justin Marc Mandel of Lethbridge; brother David (Carol) Mandel of Abbotsford, BC; sister Anna (Mike) Gross of Brooks, Alberta; and all special nieces and nephews.

Besides his loving parents Peter and Elizabeth Mandel, Marcus was pre-deceased by his sister Rachel Hofer and brother-in-law Lloyd Hofer.

A Celebration of Marcus’ Life will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF LETHBRIDGE, 4717 – 24 Avenue, South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

Thank you and God’s Blessings to the many recent Home Care Staff, church pastors and staff, all of the amazing and kind emergency staff, Doctors, efficient nurses, close friend Dave Waldner for his unfailing help, his boarder Dhyna’s for his friendship and help. Finally to everyone who called and visited him.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Marcus’ name may be made to Compassion Canada, compassion.ca/my.

In closing, special thank you to Dale Martin and staff at Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels for your efficient and kind support.

To watch the Service via livestream, please visit Marcus Mandel Funeral - July 2, 2025

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Grace Ann Ingarfield of Lethbridge, Alberta on June 20, 2025 at the age of 91.

Grace was a devoted wife to Earl Ingarfield Sr. and a loving mother to Earl Ingarfield Jr., Rae Ann Ingarfield and Jean Marie O'Brien (Graham). She was a proud and caring grandmother to Amara Primeau (Andrew), Ralph Thrall IV, Alice O'Brien and Olive O'Brien.

Grace was known for her unwavering loyalty and selflessness. She always put others before herself, offering love, support and strength to everyone around her.

She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend whose kindness touched many lives.

Grace was predeceased by her mother Helen Parsons and her sister Carmen Nilsson.

In keeping with her quiet nature and the wishes of her family, Grace will be lovingly remembered privately.

Special thanks to Dr. Howe Leam who cared for Grace and the entire staff at Fairmont Extendicare. We are so very grateful.

Mr. Kevin James LaBelle, beloved husband of Mrs. Karrie LaBelle, passed away suddenly in Coalhurst, Alberta on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the age of 50 years.

Besides his loving wife, Kevin is survived by his three daughters: Emma, Olivia, and Samantha LaBelle; son Cameron LaBelle; parents William and Jane LaBelle; brother John (Marcella) LaBelle; parents in law Dale and Linda Lukens; sister in laws Michelle (Bruce) Manton, and Nicole (Mike) Lukens; nieces Ava and Hayley; and Nephew Eli.

Kevin will be privately remembered by friends and family.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation at https://www.childrenshospital.ab.ca/ways-to-help/donate/

With deep love and sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Linda Perry, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Linda was born on December 17, 1940, to Grace and Joseph Mundee. She was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Grace Mundee, her loving partner Barry Wilson, and her sister Carol.

Linda will be forever missed by her sons Scott (Stacie) Perry, Brenton (Alexandra) Perry; cherished grandchildren Krista Perry, Sean Perry, Julia (Josh) Martens, Jacob (Ashley Roen) Perry, Lilly Perry, Summer (Perry), Haley (Perry), Hudson Perry, Sydney Perry; sister Brenda Gray of Nanaimo, BC., as well as many extended family and friends.

Linda was a kind, generous, and forgiving soul whose warmth touched everyone who knew her. She had an artistic heart—she loved painting and was known for her unique seaweed creations, which reflected her deep connection to the natural world. A true west coaster, she found joy and peace outdoors, especially on the beaches of Qualicum, where the sea and sky inspired both her art and her spirit.

She was also a devoted crossword puzzler, rarely stumped and always eager for the next challenge. Linda’s life was a quiet but powerful example of love, creativity, resilience, and appreciation for the beauty in simple things.

A private family service will be held to honour Linda’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre in Lethbridge Alberta, whose compassionate care provided comfort in her final days.

Though she has left this world, Linda’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her—and in the wind, the waves, and the soft stillness of the forest paths she so often walked.

It is with profound sadness that the family of Steve Denecky, KC announce his passing on June 16 2025, at the age of 90. He was the beloved husband of Vera A. Denecky, his wife of 64 years.

His loving family will deeply miss Steve: his brother Nick; daughter Pamela Foster (Don); sons Randy (Melody) and Cameron Denecky (Joanne); and grandson Jaden. He was predeceased by his parents Steve and Julia Denecky; brother Alec Denecky (2004); and sister Mary Westrup (2023).

Steve was born in Naicam, Saskatchewan on March 12 1935, and raised on a farm in Coalhurst. He earned his B.A. (1959) and law degree (1960) from the U of A. He met his beloved wife Vera at university, and they married on October 8, 1960 in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan.

Steve was called to the Bar in 1961. He enjoyed a distinguished legal career as a founding partner of Stringam Denecky, arguing three cases before the Supreme Court of Canada. He was appointed to the King's Council in 1991 and honored for 50 years of service in 2011.

Beyond his legal practice, Steve was deeply committed to community service. He served as Past President of the Lethbridge Bar Association, Past President of the Lethbridge Host Lions Club, and Director of the Lethbridge United Church Extension Council. He held leadership roles in Boy Scouts of Canada and numerous other organizations. In 2022 he was inducted into the Canadian Gelbvieh Association Hall of Fame for his contribution to the cattle breed.

Steve will be remembered for his sharp mind, kind heart, sense of humor, love of fishing and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

A Visitation will be held at 6:00PM, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 2025, AT MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET SOUTH, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00AM, THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2025 AT SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH, 1011 4 AVENUE SOUTH, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta, with Reverend Ruth Preston-Schilk, officiating.

To watch the Service via livestream, please visit https://www.facebook.com/SouthminsterUnited/videos/703974159080344/

Interment will follow the Service at Royal View Cemetery.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Father BOGDAN "BOB" JAMES MAREK, who left us suddenly on June 14, 2025, at the young age of 73 years. Dad was a man of roaring engines, open skies, and a heart that loved deeply and freely. He will be missed as a beloved Father, Grand-Father, Uncle, Brother, Co-worker and Friend.

Dad was born in Lethbridge, Alberta on October 5, 1951, and was predeceased by his loving parents Helen and Walter Marek. Dad married our mother Sheila in 1972, and during their 24-year marriage they had three children. Michael (Alyssa), Melanie (Brad), and Chris (Lucy). He had ten grandchildren, Emma, Abby, Tristan, MacKenna (Cam), Avorie, Brixlyn, AJ, Dylan, Brayden and Jaxon and was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Bryar and Lenora. Dad is also survived by his younger sister Dianna (Herb) and family and long-time friend's Lill and Sharon as well as daughter Nicole.

A lifelong car enthusiast and a self-taught mechanic, he earned a reputation as the go-to-man for carburetors. He could rebuild, tune, and breathe new life into any old engine. He spent countless hours in the garage and could always be found with a wrench in his hand and grease on his shirt, happily tucked under the hood of his latest project. Whether restoring classic cars or a dusty old truck, he saw beauty where others saw rust. For Dad, cars weren't just machines —they were stories, memories, and pieces of himself. Dad approached every passion with hands on dedication. Whether restoring classic cars, fine tuning bikes, gardening, or teaching himself to play the piano and guitar, His reputation was built on dependability and craftsmanship. We fondly remember Dad taking time to help us throughout our lives which included camping and fishing, buying and fixing our first cars, attending our sporting events and rides around town on his Harley. We will forever keep in our hearts the moments Dad would play those vinyl records with some good oldies that made you smile.

Dad's journey through life was as full of love as it was horsepower. He shared notable connections over the years- each relationship shaped by his passion, humour, and undeniable charm. Though his heart was never parked in one place for long, it left lasting impressions wherever it stopped. Dad had a brilliant mind, a mysterious nature and an incredible work ethic that will be forever remembered by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00pm, Friday, July 4, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET SOUTH, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta, with Dr. Bruce Martin officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that you play your favourite record, take a ride in the sunshine, or lend a hand to someone who needs it – in his honour.

Nickolas William Punga, age 42, passed away at his home on Friday, June 13, 2025. He was born on January 13, 1983, to parents Rodney and Beth, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

Nick spent the first eight years of his life on the farm in Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan. In 1991, Nick moved with his family to Strathmore, Alberta, where he lived for the rest of his life. Nick loved driving so much that he made it his career. He got his Class 1a license in 2008, He spent a lot of time operating vac trucks in northern Alberta. But he preferred 18 wheelers, making lots of long hauls all over western Canada. He treated his own pickups like beloved children. He loved to build things, whether it be Legos or big woodwork projects with his mom.

Nick loved dogs, and he had a special bond with his three beagles — Flash, Charlie, and Otto — who were not just pets, but members of his family. Whether playing, curled up on the couch, or riding shotgun on the road, they were never far from his side. Nick has been predeceased by Flash and Charlie. He is survived by Otto, who is a testament to the joy and companionship Nick found in the dogs he adored.

Nick lived with an aggressive form of Polycystic Kidney Disease. He had to have his kidneys removed before he could get on the list to receive a kidney transplant. He began hemodialysis in 2023 and underwent surgery in October of that year. After a long recovery, he finally received a new kidney three days before his 42nd birthday, only five months ago.

He is survived by his longtime partner Christy Kallen; beloved beagle, Otto; parents Rodney and Beth Punga (Stewart); sisters Jennifer Punga, Sonia (Ayres); nieces, Kaydence, Ray, Gillian, and Rebecca; great aunt Shirley Punga, and many, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He has been predeceased by his beagles, Flash and Charlie; grandparents Nick and Georgina Punga, as well as Bill and Donna Stewart; uncle Tim Stewart; and cousin Cole Jones.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 2025 AT MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET SOUTH, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta.

To watch the Service via livestream, please visit https://youtu.be/S0BIaHuyABw

In His infinite wisdom our Saviour called Herman Veldman, beloved husband, father, Opa and brother, to his heavenly home on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

Born in Lutten, Overysel, The Netherlands on April 13, 1932, Herman immigrated to Canada at the age of 21, alongside his parents and siblings, to Southern Alberta, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. He dedicated his life to farming and worked hard to provide for his family. A quiet and God-fearing man, he lived his life with humility, kindness and unwavering faith.

On April 23, 1971, Herman married the love of his life, Henny Maarhuis, and together they built a beautiful life raising six children. His family was his greatest joy, and his love extended to his 16 grandchildren, and one great grandchild, all of whom lovingly called him “Opa”.

Herman was a devoted member of Trinity United Reformed Church of Lethbridge, finding comfort and strength in his faith. Sundays were sacred to him, a time for worship and reflection. His passion for music led him to be an active and longtime member of the Lethbridge Christian Men’s Choir, sharing his voice in praise and fellowship. His life was a testament to hard work, faith, and love- a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his wife  Henny, their children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Besides his wife of 54 years, Henny, Herman is survived by 6 daughters Margaret (Darren) LeBlanc, Angela Veldman (Graham Waites), Martina (Trevor) Martin, Monique (Derek) Tolsma, Sharon (Josh) Korthuis and Louise Veldman; 16 grandchildren Kaisha LeBlanc (Michael Graf), Caleb LeBlanc, Rebekah LeBlanc, Judah LeBlanc, Chloe LeBlanc, Daniel Khurshid, Hannah Khurshid, Linden Martin, Alena Martin, Abigail (Hilbert) Avers, Bart Tolsma, Aiden Tolsma, Danika Tolsma, Brynlee Tolsma, Miah Korthuis, Kaylee Korthuis; one great grandchild Rowan Graf; sister Henny Veldman; brother John (Vicky) Veldman; in laws Wiebo and Erna Maarhuis, Ralph Maarhuis, John and Til Maarhuis, Andy and Jayne Maarhuis, and sister in law Aly Veldman.

Herman was predeceased by his dear son Adrian Veldman; parents Albert and Annegien Veldman; siblings Harm and Hendrika Veldman, John and Margaret Veldman, Henk Veldman: brother-in-law Harm Veldman; sister-in law Gertie Maarhuis.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at TRINITY REFORMED CHURCH, 1100, 40th AVENUE NORTH, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend John Van Eyk, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please visit www.trinityurc.ca/livestream

Interment was held prior at Royal View Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rehoboth Christian Ministries, https://www.rcmflourish.ca/