All Obituaries

Mr. Mervin Yaremchuk of Coalhurst, passed away at home on Monday, September 29, 2025 at the age of 80 years.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

Mr. Alan Johnson, of Lethbridge, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the age of 88 years.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

Our dear Jean passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Ovarian Cancer on Saturday, September 27, 2025. A rare and beautiful soul, she will forever be remembered for her quiet yet powerful presence, her intelligence, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved husband Bob, children Sarina (Cam) McCulloch, and Ian (Janice) Adamson; grandchildren Chase (Tori) McCulloch, Jaxson (Savannah) McCulloch, Brady and Blake Adamson; brother Steve (Debbie) Fingas, nephews Matt (Kate) Fingas, Mike (Melissa) Fingas, and her special lifetime friend Irena Kiewszyn.

Jean’s many passions reflected her creative and generous spirit. A gifted knitter, she worked with exquisite wools, often tackling intricate stitches to create her works of art. Jean loved nature—from her beloved dogs and little parrot to her garden—where each spring she carefully selected flowers and arranged them with an artist’s eye for color. She once shared her hope that when she crossed over, God would give her a garden to tend.

A woman of her word, Jean was someone you could always count on—honest, kind, and true. Her devotion to her family was at the heart of her life, and she supported them wholeheartedly in all their pursuits. Jean was a loyal employee of school District 51 for over 40 years.

We send Jean off with love and gratitude for the joy she brought to our lives, remembering and cherishing her always. As she joins those she loved who went before her, the heavens shine brighter with her loving presence among the stars.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

A come and go Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at MARANTHA CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH, 260 McGill Blvd W, Lethbridge, AB T1K 4C6.

Wendy Barbara Sherman of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Dr. Jack Sherman, passed away peacefully at Buchanan Chapel on September 26, 2025 at the age of 80 years.

Wendy was born in Saint Jean, Quebec January 3, 1945. Her father, Capt. Gordon Gall was stationed at Dorval, teaching pilots to fly. Her mother, Leah, took the train to Quebec and Wendy was born. They returned to Edmonton where she grew up.

Wendy graduated from the U of A in nursing in 1966 and married Jack, whom she met the previous year. They moved to Lethbridge in 1967, where Jack began his dental practice. Son Tim was born in 1970 and daughter Heidi in 1972 when they moved to the acreage overlooking the Oldman River and Old Chief Mountain.

After the children were in school, Wendy worked as a new patient coordinator in Jack's practice - her nursing skills and gentle demeanor helping new clients relax. Wendy was active at McKillop and Southminster United churches. She studied transactional analysis, did counseling with Dr. Alex Lawson; taught Wellness classes, was a Stephen Minister and was a Healing Touch practitioner for over 20 years. Her gentleness and holiness were blessings to all whom she ministered.

Wendy loved animals and had horses, 13 dogs and many cats over the years - most recently her beloved cat Wallace.

She and Jack loved Hawaii and especially Maui, where they holidayed for over 40 years. She loved Hawaiian culture, art, the gentle people and their music, which she listened to daily.

Wendy and her family spent many summers in Waterton, there she participated in workshops with many visiting presenters on TA and couples therapy. Fairmont in B.C. was another favorite summer place spent with her family and grandchildren.

Wendy was a gardener and her family and friends loved to be invited for tea in Wendy’s garden. She was also an excellent cook and was part of a gourmet club of friends for nearly 50 years.

The family thanks everyone who has supported Wendy in these past few years as she struggled with Alzheimer's. She kept her beauty and gentleness despite this terrible incurable disease.

Wendy made the brave decision to undergo MAID, as she could not bear the thought of the long-term effects of this disease.

She leaves to mourn her loving husband of 59 years, Jack. Son Tim (Annalisa), four granddaughters, Tessa, Claire, Meghan and Brenna. Daughter Heidi (George) and two grandsons, Iain and Cameron. Five great-grandchildren, Olive, Kinsley, Holden, Kasperi and August. Brother Doug and two nephews Rhys and Dylan. Jack’s sisters, Betty and Karen (Dave) and their families.

Wendy was predeceased by her parents Gordon and Leah Gall. Jack’s parents, Andy and Ada Sherman. And her great-grandson, Stone.

For those who wish, memorial donations can be made to the Lethbridge Paws Society or Bridge C-14 supporting through all stages of MAID.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

Herman Kleissen, beloved father of Nina (Dennis) van den Munckhof and Tessa Kleissen passed away Friday, September 26, 2025 while at home on his farm north of Chin, Alberta.

Herman was born January 21st, 1949, in Albergen, Tubbergen, Overijssel, the Netherlands, to Herman and Hermina Kleissen. Raised on a dairy farm with his 7 siblings, Herman learned to handle the large draft horses, cows, dogs and other animals with a gentle touch that continued through his life. Motorbikes, friends and a job collecting milk samples were highlights of his teenage years. After completing school, Herman received the opportunity to travel to Canada through a farming exchange program. He arrived in Canada on May 23, 1968 and began his career as a Canadian farmer. Herman worked for many years in the Vauxhall area, eventually purchasing a property northeast of Coaldale in the early 70s. Sugar beets, beans and wheat were the primary crops he focussed on over the years. He made time to travel, visiting family in Holland and exploring New Zealand, Australia, and North America with friends, regaling us with tales of chasing bears in California, seeing Elvis perform live in Vegas, and many other adventures.

In 1983, he moved his young family north of Chin, becoming the owner and operator of Beaver Pioneer Farm, the property he proudly farmed until the day he died. Herman was constantly innovating and improving farming equipment and methods. In the nineties, he became known for his “No-Till” innovation for growing sugar beets, improving crop production and field integrity with his methods. His beloved daughters were raised on the farm, riding along in the tractors and trucks, checking pivots, hoeing weeds, picking rocks, and learning their Dad’s patience with animals. Herman’s many nieces and nephews share memories of the green back yard, farm pets, times on the trampoline, and learning to drive his favourite John Deere tractors.

As his daughters grew older and moved away from home, he continued farming. He was always there for a chat and to hear the latest updates from his daughters, whom he adored. The birth of his twin grandchildren, Anna and Nathan, in 2015 brought him immense joy, and opportunities to travel to BC. Visits with Opa Herman on the farm meant digging up potatoes and carrots, learning how to move irrigation pipes, feeding the cat, and walking the dogs around the property numerous times a day. Snowball fights and water fights with irrigation hoses are bright memories of giggles and shrieks of glee when the twins would “win”! Herman’s ever innovative mind created ziplines and tire swings, much to the joy and delight of his grandchildren.

Herman was predeceased by his parents Herman and Hermina Kleissen; sisters Anne-Marie (Wim) Schepers, Herma (Wietse) Engwerda, and brother Johan (Truus) Kleissen.

Herman is survived by his daughters Nina (Dennis) van den Munckhof and Tessa Kleissen; grandchildren Anna and Nathan van den Munckhof; siblings Riky (Hennie) Booijink, Ine (Rene) Wiggers, Ben (Jose) Kleissen, and Gerry (Riet) Kleissen, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Herman will be missed by many neighbours and friends throughout Canada and the Netherlands. He was known for always having the correct tool or part needed on hand and offered his help when he was able.

Herman’s family politely declines flowers as well as donations or gifts in lieu. Instead, they wish to thank Herman’s friends and neighbours for enriching his life.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00am on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at

ST. BASIL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta. Please bring stories to share at the reception to follow. A Private Graveside Service was held prior with Herman's close family and friends.

A recording of the Memorial Mass will be available to watch after the service.

On September 24, 2025 the LORD has shown his mercy and promoted to glory Gus VanDasselaar beloved husband of 63 years of Cornelia VanDasselaar at the age of 88 years. Dear father to Kelvin, Corny, Gordon and their spouses, beloved grandfather to 11, and great-grandfather to 16.

Gus was born in Amersfoort, the Netherlands, July 16, 1937, the third of 13 children. He immigrated with his parents and 9 siblings to Homewood, MB in 1954 and working on a sugar beet farm. He married Cornelia in 1961 and they raised their three sons in Carman, MB.

They farmed for a few years. Gus then began working in the school system, first as a bus mechanic at Lansky’s, then joined the Midland School Division working as a custodian at Carman Collegiate, then head custodian at Carman Elementary. After officially retiring, he became custodian at Dufferin Christian School together with his wife. He drove the big yellow school bus for over forty years accident free, transporting three generations of farm kids to school. He then drove the Boyne Lodge Van and the Carman Handy van. In 2011 they moved to Lethbridge Alberta to be closer to their sons.

He had a strong immigrant work ethic and worked hard all his life. He provided well for his family. He enjoyed every minute of it. He will be sorely missed.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at 7:00pm on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 St. South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at the CANADIAN REFORMED CHURCH 2707 - 21 Avenue, Coaldale, Alberta with Reverend Josh Peters, officiating.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gus’s name may be made to the Alzheimer Society, 40, 1202 – 2 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E3 www.alzheimer.ca

Gillian Mary Watkinson, beloved spouse of the late Gerrit (Gary) Stoffer, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025 at the age of 67 years.

Gill was born and raised in Lethbridge; she fell in love with English, earning a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from the University of Lethbridge in 1986. She spent her career surrounded by books, first at the Lethbridge Public Library and then at Chinook Arch Regional Library System. She loved to meet with her writer’s group, exchanging thoughts, and sharing pieces.

Gill met Gary, the love of her life, in 1998, spending the next 19 years exploring, entertaining, and sharing family traditions. They loved to take drives throughout southern Alberta and BC to admire the beautiful views, camp, dine with friends, or simply be in each other’s company. They kept one another anchored through both calm and stormy waters. Gill cherished the home they created together; it was her haven for reflection and rejuvenation.

She has been there for all of us; soccer games and recitals, weddings and divorces, loves and losses, pumpkin-carving, Christmases, Easter gatherings, a glass of wine, dinner dates, a listening ear, and a safe space to run to. She always had exactly the right thing to say, and her laugh would light up a room.

Gill had a deep connection with the earth, and all things that grow from it. She welcomed all the birds and other critters to her garden, sharing the peaceful moments, with those she loved, often over a good cup of tea.

Gill is mourned by Kate Dyson, Sarah (Trevor) (Gavin and Bailey) Sheets, Kyla (Stephen) (Teddy and Ellie) Calvert, Sydney (Noah) (Walker and Colter) Gapp, Bev (Alan) Jackson, Karen Kay, Pat (Barrie) Lewis, Linda (Norm) McElravy, Wendy Merkley, Susan Nowell-Watkinson, Deirdre O’Connell, Julie (Gary) Pike, Aimee Brooke (Alex) St. Pierre, and many friends and family.

Gill is predeceased by her parents, Leonard and Carol Watkinson, and her soulmate, Gary.

Special gratitude to the staff at St. Michael’s Palliative Care for providing such compassionate comfort; she felt safe and loved in their care. She wished to thank her work family at Chinook Arch Regional Library System for all their support. She was also very humbled by the kindness shown by family and friends over the last months.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, 411 11 St S, Lethbridge, Alberta, with a private internment to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lethbridge & District Humane Society or any charity that reflected her spirit.

Christopher (Chris) Sameshima, of Coaldale, passed away on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Chinook Regional Hospital at the age of 74 years.

Left to mourn are his mother Kay, nephew Michael, and many other relatives and lifelong friends, including Henry & Elizabeth Warkentin, Brian & Helen Mantler, and Fred & Kristopher Mikado.

He was predeceased by his father Sam, sister Eileen, and his brother Terry.

Chris was a long-term, dedicated employee of Duncan Industries where he devoted 40 years of hard work. He also volunteered at the Coaldale Fire Department from 1981 to 1987.

The family would like to extend many thanks to the staff and management of Sunny South Lodge. He developed many close relationships with the community during the 8 years he resided there.

No formal funeral services will take place at this time, but the family and close friends will celebrate his life together in the future.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

Mr. Kent Batty of Lethbridge, passed away in his home on Friday, September 19, 2025 at the age of 72 years.

As per Kent’s wishes, family and friends will remember him privately.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Kent’s name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels..

Joan Eileen Fiddler (née Jacobs) was born to Amy Melvina Jacobs and Elmer Lester Jacobs in Hardisty, Alberta on December 18, 1944. She passed peacefully, surrounded by family and close friends on September 19, 2025.

She leaves behind two sisters Faye (Leo) Chrzanowski and Lynn (Ted) Grocock; brother Dale (Heidi) Jacobs; four nieces Tricia (Dave) and son Witten; Kristin (Corrado) and daughters Sofia and Lilia; Angela (Steve) and children Landon, Kohen and Ainsleigh; and Janelle (Tim) and sons Blayke, Danyn and Bauer.

Joan grew up on a farm north of Amisk, AB and attended school in Amisk, Central High in Hughenden, Camrose Lutheran College (now Augustana University) and the University of Alberta. She taught for Elk Island Public Schools for 32 years, retiring in 1999, when she and her husband, Bud, moved to Picture Butte.

Joan became involved in Trinity United Church in Picture Butte, serving as lay worship leader, being involved in fundraisers, organizing concerts, especially the Community Christmas Concert, and serving on the local board, and as a representative at Presbytery, Conference and Regional Council.

Joan’s other passion was the PAW Society. In 2004, she began volunteering and soon began fostering cats and for 18 years was fundraising coordinator. In 2012, Joan received a Seniors of Distinction community award for her work with PAW. Joan cared deeply for all of her feline companions over the years, both her own and those she fostered. Joan was a trooper-unwavering in her dedication to her projects, so strong in her quiet, unassuming way. We will miss her.

A Memorial Service for Joan will be held at 11:00am on Monday, September 22, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS FUNERAL CHAPELS, 610 – 4 St. S., Lethbridge, Alberta with Ruth Pelletier officiating. Joan’s  service will be livestreamed, and can be viewed at www.mbfunerals.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PB Trinity United Church, PO Box 957, Picture Butte, AB, T0K 1V0 (pbtrinity@shaw.ca) or to the PAW Society, PO Box 255, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 3Y5 (pawsociety@shaw.ca).

Click here to view the livestream

Lloyd Alexander Mercer, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the age of 80.

Lloyd grew up on a dairy farm near McNally School with his parents Ernest and Marion, and his siblings Della, Ernie, Donnie, Audrey, Myrna, and Clayton. He graduated from Kate Andrews High School and went on to study Agriculture at SAIT. He farmed with Russell and Lois Greeno near Wilson Siding and became interested in the seed industry. After marrying their daughter Connie, they started their own seed business, Mercer Seeds in 1975. They raised their children Ryan, Tammy, and Troy on the family farm and shared many happy memories there with family and friends.

After retiring, Lloyd spent his winters in Arizona, where he enjoyed playing baseball, tennis, pickleball, and singing karaoke. He had a wonderful voice and loved to share it with others, spending hours entertaining at seniors’ lodges and special events. He always enjoyed motorcycles and recently bought a Spyder and he and his partner Edna spent a lot of time together riding and camping at Payne Lake. The family would like to thank the staff and his fellow residents at Buffalo Grace Manor for all their care and compassion during his time there.

He will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his friends, family and son Ryan (Annette) along with their children Ananda (Micaiah) & Rurie van Eyk, James and Raylene. His daughter Tammy (Les) Bolstad along with their children Leslie, Russell and Lois. And youngest son Troy (Tamie) along with their children Tayden, Tianna and Torin.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at 7:00pm on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, September 26, 2025 at MCKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta with Reverend Trevor Potter, officiating.

The service will be livestreamed by McKillop United Church.

Richard Louis Putzi of Milk River, Alberta, beloved husband of Rodney Jean Putzi, passed away peacefully at Peter Lougheed Hospital in Calgary on September 15, 2025 at the age of 76.

Rick was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, to Sophia and John Putzi. He graduated from Warner High School and devoted much of his life to a long and dedicated career in Heavy Equipment Operations. Beyond his work, Rick was a passionate supporter of the Toronto Blue Jays, cheering them on with great enthusiasm.

Besides his loving wife Rodney whom he was married to for 51 years, Rick is survived by his children; Loren (Sandra) Douglas, Carma (Calvin) Fitch, and Chad (Kari) Putzi, all residing in Milk River, Alberta. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Rick was predeceased by his son Warren Rodney Putzi.

Rick was a fantastic Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa. He will be sadly missed by many.