Dick Roest

MR. DINGEMAN ""DICK"" ROEST of Lethbridge, beloved partner of Thelma Palmer, passed away suddenly on Saturday, July 3, 2010 at the age of 63 years, doing what he loved to do - puttering around in his yard and building a playground for his grandchildren.

Born in the Netherlands, Dick came to Canada with his family in 1952, settling in Salmon Arm, BC. Two years later he moved to the Lethbridge area where he chose to raise his family. After working in construction with his father, Dick started his successful business of 30 years; DR Stucco.

Dick had a great love of the outdoors and he was known for his generous nature, which allowed him to touch the hearts of many. He was always the first to help others out. He enjoyed many years watching his children and grandchildren in a variety of sports. He was a kind businessman, always helping the underdog, and ""fathering"" those he met.

He had a big heart for everyone and especially loved his grandchildren who equally adored their OPA. He was one of the toughest men and one of the softest men all at the same time. Those who were lucky enough to be touched by him have many memories to laugh and share.

Besides his loving partner Thelma, Dick is survived by his daughters; Shelley (James Setoguchi) Roest, and Shantel (Chad Farncombe) Roest, his sons; Shane (Allison) Roest, and Stacy (Billie Jean) Roest, and his mother, Rose Roest. (He was predeceased by his father Pleun Roest.) He is also survived by his grandchildren Derian, Kianna, and Miranda Setoguchi, Olivia, Erick, and Jillian Roest, and Austin and Graci Roest, along with his sisters; Connie (John) Faassen and Daisy (Dave) Moody, and brothers; John (Heather) Roest and Paul (Linda Santrau) Roest, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families. He will be sadly missed by Thelma's family; her mother Agnes Varhaug, children; Yvonne (Keith) Palmer-Wilson, Lynnette (Mike) Fortin, and David (Jennifer) Palmer, her grandchildren Keira, Elicia, Beau, and David, her brothers; Henry (Wem) Varhaug, Tryg (Shirley) Varhaug, and her sister Joan Firestone.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, July 8, 2010 at ST. ANDREW'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1818 5 Avenue South, Lethbridge.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Wood's Homes, 312 3rd Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 1Y9, or to the Kids' Cancer Care Foundation, 609 - 14 Street NW, Suite 302, Calgary, AB T2N 2A1.