ALMIRA SCHINKEL of Lethbridge, beloved mother of Lawrence and Greg Schinkel and their families, passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 11, 2009 at the age of 67 years.

Almira was born February 16th, 1941 in Warwarovka, Ukraine. Her family was evacuated to Germany in 1943, to the Luneburger Heide area. In 1952 the family immigrated to Canada. They settled in Stirling where they worked in the sugar beets and the children attended school. She enjoyed her work in the restaurant industry as a waitress for the Marquis Hotel Restaurant, the Majorette Restaurant and later the Ventura Hotel Restaurant. In 1962 Almira got married and she took on a new career as a housewife and mother. After recovering from the surgery of her brain tumour and separating from her husband, she and the boys moved to Stirling in 1972. Then she and the boys found a place to call home in Coaldale in 1973. Almira continued working as a waitress until 1986 when the brain tumour returned and surgery was required again. As a result, she never totally recovered health wise. In 2000 she moved into an apartment in Lethbridge and enjoyed the rest of her years here. Almira thoroughly enjoyed her grand children and above all had faith in the Lord.

Almira is survived by Son Lawrence (Carolyn) grand-daughters Cassandra & Ashley, Son Greg (Lori) grandson Adam & grand-daughter Marisa, Brothers Reinhold (Senta) Besler of Edmonton, Rubin (Shirley) Besler of Port Alberni and Sister Hilma Hellwig of Lethbridge, Special Cousin Christel Spitzer and 9 nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by Mother Emily Besler in 1990, Father Eduard Besler in 1997, Brother Ewald Besler in 2003, and cousin Erwin Spitzer in 2006.

Family and Friends are invited to pay their respects between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Thursday, January 15, 2009 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, January 16, 2009 at CHRIST TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 416 - 12 Street South, Lethbridge, with Pastor Harold Martin officiating. Interment to follow in the Coaldale Community Cemetery.