Matilda “Tillie” Caruso of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late John Caruso, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 89 years old. After a brief but courageous battle with cancer, Tillie’s life came to a gentle close, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family.

Tillie was born on October 14, 1936, in Herbert, Saskatchewan, to Raymond and Katherine Behm. She was one of ten children, growing up alongside three brothers and six sisters. Those early years shaped the deep family values she carried throughout her life.

She later moved to Fort Macleod, Alberta, where she met the love of her life, John. The two were married on April 12, 1956, beginning a partnership built on love and commitment. Shortly after, they settled into Lethbridge, where they built their family home and raised three children. That home became the heart of countless memories, filled with love, laughter, and the quiet strength Tillie brought to everyday life. It was there that she lived for the remainder of her years, surrounded by the life she helped create.

Tillie is lovingly remembered by her son Rodney, her daughter Gina (Trent), her granddaughter Brittany (Luke), her grandsons Brandon (Laura) and Jason (Jill), and her cherished great-grandchildren Archer and Jovie. She is also survived by her sisters Agnes, Christina, Clara, and Patsy, as well as many nieces and nephews who were touched by her kindness and care.

She was predeceased by her husband John, her son John Gregory, her parents Raymond and Katherine, her brothers Leo, George, and Tom, and her sisters Hilda and Leona.

Tillie will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her quiet strength, loving presence, and unwavering dedication to those she cared for will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Foundation.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 5, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 ST S, LETHBRIDGE. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so during the hour prior (10:00 am-11:00 am).

A Private Family interment will be held in the Mountain View Cemetery at a later date.

Click here to view a livestream of the funeral service.