All Obituaries

PHILIP DONALD LEIER, beloved husband of the late Evelyn Susie (Thomas) Leier, and a very dear and loving father, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the age of 93 years.

Philip the eldest of three siblings, was born the son of a Jeweler Anthony Roy (Zella) Leier in Regina, Saskatchewan, and is survived by brother David (Linda) Leier; and sons Dale Philip (Jackie) Leier, Donald James Leier; daughter Teresa Jean Leier; grandchildren Brandon Blake Leier, Michael Shaun (Kellee) Leier; great grandchildren Aiden Trevor Michael Kruse, Camryn Grace Leier, a bun in the oven, family pooch Charlotte Elizabeth Leier, and his friends. 

In his younger years, Philip enjoyed working with his father in the Jewelry business and the repair of watches, and never looked back. A hard worker never without employment, Philip experienced several family relocations, which found him moving from Regina to Edmonton, to Calgary, and eventually to Lethbridge as a teenage boy when he found employment at Enerson Motors and met the love of his life, Evelyn, whom he would spend the next 70 years with. Phil also worked as an electrician for Bruce Robinson Electric, eventually finding lifelong career employment with the Federal Government as a Public Servant with Customs Canada. It was with this job that Phil would work the next 35 years to a full retirement.

Phil enjoyed many outdoor sports such as golf, hunting, and fishing, along with many hobbies and skills he developed along the way, such as gunsmithing, building fishing rods, and many other accomplishments too numerous to list. Philip had many very dear friends he cherished, but none more than lifelong friends considered to be family, Doran Johnson, Steve Tollestrup, and Douglas Clark, with whom he would make the daily pit stop at 7-11 for a “BIG GULP”. Lifelong best friends Gordon Bowden, Garry Kohn, and William ‘Bill’ Baker were also considered to be part of Phil’s extended family.

Phil was a very devoted family man and was very close to his brother and sister. Phil worked hard at maintaining a very close relationship with his brother, David Leier, and sister, Marlene Blumel, making numerous frequent trips to visit his siblings and extended family living in British Columbia.

Philip is predeceased by his parents and sister, Marlene Rose (George) Blumel.

Phil’s love of life, family, and friends can only be eclipsed by his willingness to give rather than receive, and he has touched the lives of a great many people with his time in this world. He will be dearly, and forever missed by family, friends and loved ones.

Forever in our hearts, rest in peace Dad.

A Celebration of Phil’s Life will be held at 12:00PM on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta. Interment to follow in the Royal View Cemetery. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects prior to the service at 11:00AM.

Maria Argelia Quinteros passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on June 25, 1954, to Nicolasa Reyes Claros and Victor Manuel Galdamez in Jocoro, Morazan, El Salvador, she lived a life of unwavering faith, devotion to family, and quiet strength.

Maria Argelia Quinteros was a devoted Christian whose faith in her Savior Jesus Christ served as her anchor through every trial and joy. She married Ruben Quinteros Ramirez, and together they raised three sons: Ruben, Jharlin, and Edwin. In 1987, the family migrated to Canada, arriving in Lethbridge on April 7, where they built a new life filled with love and perseverance. Maria proudly worked at the University of Lethbridge, contributing her kindness and dedication to her community while cherishing time with her growing family. She loved her pet birds as well as tending to her various plants and flowers and that provided her with immense joy.

Argelia is survived by her loving husband Ruben Quinteros Ramirez and her children and their families: Ruben & Jenn with their children Nathan Nectali, Jaden Corey, Jordan Alcides, Elin Janae, Ethan Aaron; Jharlin with his children Emilio Jharlin and Samarah Nicolaza; and Edwin & Holly with their children Adrian Abelardo, Nataly Lianne, Christian Dana, Johnathan Edwin, Angely Argelia, Cassian Ruben, Avan Robert Luis.

Maria is predeceased by her mother, Nicolasa Reyes Claros (died June 2020), and her sister Rosa Marina Reyes.

Her legacy endures in the hearts of her 14 grandchildren and all who knew her warmth and faith.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1PM on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Miz City Church, 501 - 13 St N, Lethbridge.

The church will livestream the service. To view the livestream, click here.

 

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Yosh Aimoto. Yosh grew up in the Bassano area. After he married Susan, they settled in Claresholm and raised their family. On retirement, Yosh and Susan resided in Coaldale for the past 11 years. Yosh enjoyed outdoor activities and spending time in his garden. He especially treasured his time spent with his grandchildren. Yosh is survived by his wife Susan, Daughter Tina/Bill Hamilton, Son Rodney/Tina Aimoto, Grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and sisters Mary and Rose. Yosh was preceded by his parents, brothers and one sister.

At Yosh's request there will be no formal funeral.

At the family's request no koden.

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Darlene Hranac (nee Dancoisne), loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend to many.  Darlene left us on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the age of 88 years.

It is with certainty that Darlene sends a special message to the numerous people in her life, both before and during her illness with Alzheimer’s Disease, who have unselfishly shared their gift of love, support and time whether in moments of health or unwellness.  A heartfelt thank you from the family to all those who were a part of her very fulfilled life.

Darlene has now joined her beloved husband and best friend Ed, her daughter Starlie Anne, her parents Helen and Glen Dancoisne, and her siblings Lorna Cannon and Robert Dancoisne.

Darlene leaves to mourn and honour her memory her surviving children and their immediate and extended families of Mark (Kelly), Stephanie (Franco), and Kim (Don), plus her surviving brother Dave (Carol), and extended families.

Darlene will also be deeply missed by her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friendships that she cherished over many years.  She was fortunate to be loved by so many.

A very special thank you to the compassionate staff at Swan Evergreen Village, Providence Care Centre and Health Care Team Unit 36 at the Foothills Hospital, all of Calgary, Alberta.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 11:00 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 ST. S, LETHBRIDGE, AB, with internment to follow at the Mountainview Cemetery.

The service will be livestreamed at www.mbfunerals.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations in Darlene’s name made to the Alzheimers Society of Alberta online at https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/memory or by calling 1-866-950-5465. Alternatively, those who wish may plant a tree in her memory.

Click here to view a livestream of the funeral service.

Gerald John Vandenberg, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Amanda Vandenberg, passed away suddenly at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the age of 51 years.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife Amanda, his daughter Katie, sons Trevor and Nick; sisters Brenda Van Schothorst, Geraldine Van Esch, Evelyn Klok, and Petula Bloemert; and his brothers Henk, Rex, Elbert, and Tony.

Gerald was born in Picture Butte to Henry & Gerry Vandenberg. He attended Calvin Christian School before he began his 35+ year career as a truck driver. As a young man, Gerald participated in several hobbies including motocross, working with horses, and he enjoyed working on his family farm. He married his best friend, Amanda, in 2001 and started their family with the birth of their first son, Trevor. Soon after, Nick and then Katie were born.

Gerald enjoyed traveling and doing family activities like camping, boating, quadding, or anything with his kids. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Gerald is predeceased by his parents Henry & Gerry Vandenberg, brother-in-law Peter Klok, and sister Patricia Klok.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 5:00pm and 8:00pm on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 ST S, LETHBRIDGE.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, December 5, 2025, at NOBLEFORD COMMUNITY HALL, 122 KIPP ST, NOBLEFORD, with Dr. Bruce Martin officiating.

Interment will follow at Archmount Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who with to may make memorial donations in Gerald’s name directed to the Cardiac Wing at Lethbridge Regional Hospital.

Infant Theo Ryan denBok, beloved child of Allan & Colinda DenBok, and dear brother to Chad, Ella, Nora, Drew and Aria was taken out of this life on Thursday, November 27, 2025, after spending six days on this earth.

"The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away."

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Netherlands Reformed Congregation of Picture Butte, with Rev. Kleijer officiating.

FREDRICK “FRED” ADAM LESLIE, beloved husband of Mona Leslie, passed away after a lengthy illness at Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 84 years.

He is survived by his wife Mona; daughters Michele (Aaron), Renee (Bob), Lisa (Rod), and Robin (Steve deceased); grandchildren (whom he bragged about when given the opportunity) Christopher (Melissa), Nathan (Rachelle), Katie, Alexander, Kelsey, and Adam, as well as his great-grandson Freddy.

Born at the Galt Hospital on October 12, 1941, to Roy and Jessie (Holmes) Leslie, he was a proud “Northside Kid” who hiked the coulees and river bottom with friends whose friendships have continued throughout his life. As a young man he enjoyed fishing and pheasant hunting.

Fred and Mona were married in 1963 and raised 4 daughters. Employed by the city of Lethbridge for nearly 35 years, he enjoyed the comradery of co-workers and especially the annual Christmas party.

As a family, there were camping trips nearly every weekend throughout the summer with BBQ’s and hot tubbing during the time at home. Fred was an accomplished woodworker and he and Mona, along with a couple of daughters, had a home-based craft company for about 25 years.

With the girls in their teens, Fred purchased a Honda Goldwing motorcycle and, with Mona, traveled to California, Victoria, and many shorter trips until 1991 when they were forced off the road. From that point on, the grandchildren became the focus of attention. Camping trips, sleepovers and any occasion was an excuse for a family celebration. His woodworking resulted in custom furniture, toys and even oak wagons for his girls and grandchildren.

Heart surgery in 2013 slowed him down and sepsis in 2019 took away his mobility.

Fred is predeceased by his parents, Roy and Jessie Leslie and his sister Dorothy.

A Private Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

It is with heavy hearts that the family announce the passing of Thomas Roderick Rogers, beloved husband of Brenda Rogers. He passed away suddenly in Chinook Regional Hospital on November 26, 2025, at the age of 73.

Tom was born on February 25, 1952, in Lethbridge. He was the first of five children born to Roderick (Rody) and Marguerite Rogers.

Living all of his life in the Nobleford/Monarch area, he attended Noble Central school from grade 1 to graduation, moving on to S.A.I.T. in Calgary where he obtained his welding certificate. Shortly after his graduation from S.A.I.T. Tom obtained employment with Noble Cultivators, later known as New Noble in Nobleford. He would remain with these two companies until their closing over 30 years later. After the closing of the plant, Tom was then employed by Joe and Darrell Groenenboom at Groenenboom Farms in Kipp. It was from this job that he retired 15 years later in 2013.

From 1974 – 1984 Tom was married to Lesley (Smith) Rogers. Together they had two children, Mark born in 1979 followed by Cindy, arriving one year later in 1980. In 1988, he married Brenda (Piper) Rogers and gained two more children, Roberta (Fallon) and Krista (MacNeil). As time went on the Rogers family increased with the addition of five grandchildren, Allysia, Darren, Makayli, Cowen and Jace.

After retirement Tom and Brenda enjoyed travelling to countries in the Caribbean, Central America, and a trans-Atlantic cruise to Africa and Europe. However, the place that they most enjoyed was their property in Faro, Yukon Territory.

Besides his loving wife, Brenda, Tom is survived by his son Mark (Alyshia) Rogers, daughter Cindy Rogers, grandchildren Makayli Rogers, Cowen Rogers, and Jace White; stepdaughters Roberta Fallon, and Krista (Brad) MacNeil; step grandchildren Allysia (Murray)MacNeil, and Darren MacNeil; sisters Roberta Rogers and Diane Paul; and brothers Bob (Deb) Rogers and Stuart (Paula) Rogers. He was also survived by Lesley Rogers, nephew Ethan Rogers and niece Kaitlynn (Rylan) Rogers.

Tom was predeceased by his parents Rody and Marguerite Rogers, brothers-in-law Doug Paul and Bruce McCuaig and his special aunt Robina (Auntie Red) Dunlop.

Tom was an avid recreational curler. He was a long-time member and contributor to the Nobleford Curling Club. In his younger years one would often find Tom in the curling rink lounge partaking in the “after game” activities with his lifelong friend, Randy Todd, often into the wee hours of the morning.

The farm life never left Tom. Even though he lived in Nobleford and later Lethbridge, he and “Old Red” (his beloved 1979 Ford truck) would visit the farm daily to putter around and help Bob and Stuart with chores and farm work. He would often proudly state the he had dirty running through his veins.

Anyone who ever knew Tom was well aware of his work ethic. He always had a project on the go or a list in his head of what needed to do done. On November 25th all the boxes on Tom's to-do list got checked off completing his circle of life.

A Celebration of Tom's life will be held in early January 2026 and will be announced upon completion of the arrangements. Everyone is welcome to come and share a “Kokanee” and a humorous story about our beloved Tom.

MICHAEL FRANK BORAS of Coaldale, Alberta, beloved husband of the late Helena Dorothy Boras, passed away peacefully with his family by his side at the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale, AB on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the age of 87 years.

Dad was born on the farm near Raymond, Alberta March 12, 1938, fourth child of Angelo and Anika. His early years were spent on the farm in Raymond and later he moved to the farmstead just east of Coaldale, Alberta. He attended R.I. Baker School until grade 11 when he committed to working the family farm full-time. 

While attending school, Dad met the love of his life and future wife Dorothy. They were married in Coaldale June 4, 1966, and together raised 4 children. As their family grew, they enjoyed road trips to visit family and trips to Disneyland and the Okanagan. Mom and Dad enjoyed trips together, playing cards (especially crib), curling, and working in the yard. Curling was a big passion for Dad, winning many bonspiels and wowing everybody with his mastery of the stick. After the farm was sold, Dad continued to serve the farming community delivering fertilizer and helping many of his friends with harvest. 

In 1989, Mom and Dad built their retirement home in Coaldale, and he continued living there after Mom’s passing in 2004. Dad was forced to learn many household tasks. While never a gourmet chef, he managed to satisfy his appetite and always appreciated meals provided by others. 

Dad moved to Sunny South Lodge in 2021 where he was reunited with many of his old friends and made numerous new ones. His final months were challenging and the care he received at the Lodge was loving and compassionate. The staff often commented on how special Dad was and how much they enjoyed his salty sense of humour. Dad will be missed by many.

Michael will be lovingly remembered by his children and their families, daughter Judeth Boras and children Avalon (Quinton), Nicola (Dan), and Elexandra (Garrett); daughter Lorelei (Bill) Gridley and children Cody (Celeste), Christopher (Ashley), and Rebecca (Rhys); son Darren (Anthea) Boras and children Riley, Ailysh, and Shalyn (Alexandro); and daughter Donna Ramsum and children Sebastian, Aglician, and Gabrielle along with twelve great-grandchildren. Michael will also be lovingly remembered by his brother Ivan (Lydia) Boras, sister Helen (John deceased) Kovacs, brother-in-law Leo Rondeau and sister-in-law Deb Boras as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. 

Michael was predeceased by the love of his life Helena Dorothy, parents Angelo and Anika Boras, sisters Jane Boras and Eve Rondeau, brother George Boras, and nieces Gail and Dawn Boras.

Dad will be laid to rest beside Mom in a private Graveside Service Tuesday, December 2, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dad’s name to the Coaldale Granite Club, Sunny South Lodge or a charity of your choice.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, Marie Suzanne “Susan” Shirley Young, who passed away suddenly on November 24, 2025, at the age of 68 years.

Born on September 29, 1957, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Susan was the daughter of Benoit and Anna Lachance.  She was devoted to her husband, David (Dave) Webb, and was a loving and proud mother to her two sons, James and Derek (Ashley).  She was a cherished grandmother to Micah, Grayson, Noah and Syliss who brought joy to her life.

Susan will be remembered for her vibrant passion for decorating, always ready for ideas and inspiration for her own home and for the homes of those she loved.  She found joy in crafting and gardening, and her creativity shone through in everything she touched.  Her home was a warm, welcoming place where everyone – family, friends, and even newcomers – felt like they belonged.  She treasured long conversations with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter and thoughtful advice.  Family gatherings were made richer and more memorable because of her presence.

Throughout her life, Susan built a diverse and meaningful career.  She began in hairdressing before moving on to roles at Mom and Me Boutique, Addition Elle, Stokes, and co-ownership of Gourmet Cup coffee shop.  She later worked at Loves (wedding/cake decorating supplies), served as a Kitchen Designer at Home Depot, and most recently dedicated 15 years to Ashely Furniture in administration and customer service.  In every role, she brought kindness, dedication, and genuine care for the people around her.

Susan is survived by her siblings Phil (Shelley), Jacky, Ernie, Joyce, Diane and Carmel (David) and along with many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Susan was predeceased by her parents, Benoit and Anna Lachance, and her brother, Gerald Lachance.

In honor of Susan’s memory, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

With great sadness I wish to announce that Bradley (Brad) Gordon Scidmore passed peacefully on November 24 at Edith Cavell Nursing Home. He was only 64. He suffered from Dementia for over 10 years.

He leaves to mourn his partner in crime of almost 39 years, Patty Moyer. He is survived by his parents Mike and Carolyn Scidmore of Moose Jaw, SK.

On his side of the family, he is also survived by his son Deke (Leanne) Diagle and children Megan, Addison, Oliver, Elliot, and Felix all of Saskatoon; brothers Mike Jr (Janice) Scidmore, of Moose Jaw; Alan (Belinda) Scidmore, of Sylvan Lake; Neal (Deena) Scidmore, of Vernon BC and his sister Angela (Anson) Wiberg, of Moose Jaw along with all of his siblings children. On Patty’s side of the family, he is survived by his brother-in-law John (Julie) Reimer and their children and Patty’s children Tanya, Shelley, and Dean. He had numerous nieces and nephews, and great-grandchildren. Brad was predeceased by his youngest brother Christopher of Moose Jaw.

Born in Winnipeg, Brad lived in Ontario as a youngster and then moved to Moose Jaw to finish growing up there. Brad was the eldest of 5 boys and 1 sister. That sister grew up tough!

Brad entered his Automotive career in 1988 and worked almost exclusively as a Chrysler technician. The last few years he specialized in diesels. He loved his work. He also trained as an ASE Technician so he could work in the U.S., but after he completed the full course, he decided that he didn’t want to move after all. While training for that he took all 8 levels and completed his courses with a 99% average. 

Those courses were tough and he studied hard. Here in Lethbridge, he worked for many years at Mountview Dodge (now Gary Moe) and finished his automotive career at Bridge City. Brad had a photographic memory. When a young starting out technician would ask him a question he would say – Look it up in the book. When the tech would ask where to find that info, Brad could tell him which book, which chapter, which page and where on that page. Brad also worked at Cargill, Charlton & Hill, and as a security guard for the Commissionaires. He loved working as a Security Guard, but his illness took over and he had to leave after only 2 years.

He loved his sports and especially the Calgary Flames. He was a die-hard fan whether they won or lost. He was so excited when they brought home the Cup! He wasn’t only a hockey fan but Football and Golf. He really loved his Golf.

Brad learned to tie flies so he could go Fly Fishing. When Brad did something, he did it all the way or not at all. So, he studied flies and tying, bought top notch equipment and became an expert. He tied flies for Denny Ricards, a top-notch TV Fly Fisherman from B.C. He once did a custom order for a gentleman in Calgary that required flies of such miniature proportions that he had to tie under a microscope. They were then mounted in a solid oak display cabinet. 

He was well paid for that job!

His memory served him well when it came to music. He was a huge fan of 1980’s Hair Metal, although he loved all music. If we went to a Name That Tune, he could get the song, artist, and even tell you the name of the album and year within the first 2 notes of the music.

Brad also loved horses. When we first got together, he had only ridden a couple of times. But again, in true Brad style, he learned fast. So fast in fact that he ended up getting my Barrel Race horse, CB, ready for me during weekdays so I could compete on weekends. He even learned how to trim hooves and shoe them. He and his best friend Ron Powelson ended up taking on rank horses to trim hooves. Ron would rope the horse and lay him down, and Brad would lay across the head and hold it from getting up.

Speaking of Ron, Brad and he went camping by horseback many times up at Wall Lake, B.C. We did a lot of trail rides and camping together. He had a great love and respect for the outdoors.

Another great love of Brad’s was his 1981 Goldwing motorcycle. He spent hundreds of hours restoring that bike. We went on many rides together along with numerous friends and family. Him on his Goldwing, me on my Boulevard. We were planning a road trip all the way to the East Coast when he was diagnosed with dementia, so we decided not to go. I wish we had taken the chance.

Brad had a lot of acquaintances and friends but 3 stand out (other than family) as exceptional. Ron Powelson of Raymond, Paolo Fanara of Montana, and Lorne McDonald of Lethbridge. These 3 have been there for each other on numerous occasions and I am so grateful for their friendship with him. He really loved all 3 of those men.

Brad loved to laugh, tell jokes, and have fun. He was quite mischievous at times. His eyes would start to twinkle and you just knew something was up. The nurses all loved him at both St. Theresa and Edith Cavell. He could charm them so easy! I am very thankful for the care he received at the 2 facilities over the last 7 years. He was treated with respect at both places.

He will be missed a great deal by myself, family and friends.

There will be a Celebration of Brad’s Life on  July 9, 2026. We will celebrate with family and friends at his favorite fishing hole in the Crowsnest Pass. Notices will be sent out with all details in May or June for those wishing to attend.

Flowers are gratefully declined. If you wish, memorial donations may be made to Lethbridge’s Last Chance Cat Ranch in Brad’s name.

Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

Mrs. Irene Fast of Pincher Creek, beloved wife of the late Mr. Otto Fast, passed away at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 77 years.

Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.