All Obituaries

Mr. Carl “Charlie” Dancek passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the age of 81 years.

Carl was born November 10, 1943 in Bellevue to Andrew and Sophie Dancek. He is blessed with 3 children: Carl (Kim) Dancek, Cathy (Jim) Davies and Kevin (Pam) Dancek; grandchildren Tiffany (Kenton) Squarek, Alissa (Karl) Mikusek, Kyle (Brittany) Davies, Lucas Dancek and Josh Dancek; great grandchildren Blake, Jayden, Mila, McKenna, Leo and Madden.

Carl is also survived by his sisters Sophie Hord and Violet Dancek and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, brother Andrew, sisters Mary, Susan and Ann, as well as a grandson Ryan.

Carl attended the University of Alberta in Edmonton and received his Bachelor of Education degree. He spent the majority of his Teaching career at St. Michael’s school in Pincher Creek.

Carl enjoyed coaching and refereeing multiple teams in every sport. He was an animated character that everyone enjoyed being around. He always had a story to tell. Fishing the creeks and picking huckleberries on Castle Mountain were some of Carl’s joys. He especially loved umpiring baseball which he continued to do until this past spring.

Carl, you have called your final out!

Rest Peacefully Dad.

A private Family Graveside Service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Pincher Creek Humane Society, PO Box 2647) 1086 Kettles Street, Pincher Creek, AB T0K1W0.

Ms. Judith Sheppard passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on October 6th, 2025, at the age of 83 years.

A private interment will be held and a memorial for friends and family will be announced at a later date.

Mrs. Pat Hendricks “Norlin” of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Garth Hendricks, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at the age of 85 years.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at 2:00pm on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, October 10, 2025 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL. Inurnment will follow in Archmount Cemetery.

Click here to view a livestream of the funeral service.

Mrs. Jean Coninx of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Peter Coninx, and loving mother of Barbara Coninx, passed away at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre on Friday, October 3, 2025 at the age of 93 years.

Jean will be privately remembered by family.

Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, please make a donation to a charity of one’s choice.

Mr. Dallas Langworthy of Lethbridge beloved spouse of the late Mrs. Stacey Morrison, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at the age of 44 years.

Dallas was a devoted husband, cherished friend, and passionate soul that brought joy, laughter, and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.His greatest joy was his beloved wife, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures from hikes in Waterton to unforgettable concerts that echoed with their favorite songs.

He was a lifelong hockey fan, from playing for 15 years, reffing for 25 years, coaching and mentoring many kids throughout the years. He had a knack for turning any moment into fun, and his playful spirit was contagious. You never wanted to play opposite him during Name That Tune night. His laughter, his stories, and his unwavering support will be missed beyond measure.

Dallas is survived by his parents Dennis (Carol Moman) Langworthy, Amber (Heinz Klassen) Langworthy; brother Troy (Nicole) Langworthy; sister Candace (David Burt) Langworthy; sister-in-law Erika Morrison; nieces Alexis Morrison, Abigail Burt; nephews Ryker Morrison, Jett Burt; grandfather Nick Wiggill; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

Besides his loving wife Stacey, Dallas was pre-deceased by his nephew Gavin Burt.

A Simple Celebration of Dallas’ Life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at COALDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE, 1217 – 20 Avenue, Coaldale, Alberta.

For those who wish, In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dallas’ name may be made to Canadian Mental Health Association, 426 – 6 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 2C9.

Rest easy, Dallas. Your light lives on in every song, every smile, and every memory we hold dear.

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.