OBITUARIES -
We would like to extend our condolences to those in the community who have recently lost loved ones. If you Cannot Make It To a Funeral you can send a Condolence E-mail By Clicking on The Highlighted E-mail Link for Each Obituary.
Douglas K. Reid Nov 12, 1943 - Mar 6, 2026 (Age 82)
It is with profound sadness and much love, the family of Douglas ‘Doug’ Kendall Reid announce his passing on March 6, 2026 at the age of 82 years.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife and best friend of 61 years, Leona Reid and their three children, Craig (Colleen) Reid and their daughter, Megan; Deirdre (Hieland) Mayzes and their daughter, Payton; and Brent (Maureen) Reid and their daughter, Cara (Luke Miller). He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Thorson of Nashville, TN; his brothers, Skip (Joyce) Reid of Wasaga Beach, Ontario; David Reid (Tina Mallette) and Scott (Norma) Reid, both of Cornwall, Ontario.
He is predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Dorina Reid; his brother-in-law, Carl Thorson; his best friend, Keith Arnold; and his furry family member, Promise.
Doug worked for the Department of National Defense for 35 years. He spent 25 years with the Royal Canadian Engineers and his last 10 years of employment were spent with the Public Service of Canada as Fire Chief in Suffield, AB. He was very proud to serve his country and was equally proud that both of his sons chose to as well.
Doug was one of those special people that always had a smile and time for a visit with the many cherished people in his life. He was a quiet, humble and proud man. Throughout the years, he enjoyed golfing, curling, camping and fishing. Some of his favourite times were spent on the lake fishing with his best friend Keith, and his son, Brent. He loved going for walks through the neighbourhood of Crescent Heights. He enjoyed having a cold beer at the Legion with his pals and he also loved spending time with his children and granddaughters. Family dinners were always a highlight, often filled with the sharing of fun family memories. He had a little sparkle in his eyes when his granddaughters would come over and enjoyed endless teasing with them. He loved watching sports, particularly his beloved Minnesota Vikings and the Toronto Blue Jays. A very heartfelt *thank you* to the healthcare professionals at River Ridge Medicine Hat who provided special and loving care to Doug for the past 5 years. In his last days, so many staff came to see him to share how much they care about him and give their best wishes for this next journey. Our family is especially grateful to a few special ‘angels on earth’ including Krisie, Gayle, Adam, Stella, Lanette, and Rosie. Our family will be forever grateful to each of you. Thank you! “I have come to believe, more strongly than ever, that after people die, they really do live on through those who loved them.” ~ Caroline Kennedy. Friends are welcome to join in celebrating Doug’s life at the Robertson Memorial Royal Canadian Legion Branch 17 at 702 – 2 St. SE in Medicine Hat on Saturday, March 21 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, a memorial tribute in honour of your friendship with Doug can be made to the Robertson Memorial Royal Canadian Legion Branch 17 ‘Poppy Fund’ at 702 – 2 St. SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0E1. Condolences may be sent through www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
Fern Wudrich 1931 - 2026
It is with sad, but love-filled hearts, that we announce the passing of our special mother, Fern Wudrich of Bow Island, beloved wife of the late Gus Wudrich, on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the age of 94 years.
She was born Fern Margaret McFaul, daughter of Louis and Clarice McFaul, on September 22, 1931, in Piapot, SK. Fern was one of eight siblings, and the last one of her family to go. She married Gus in 1953, and moved to a farm close to Whitla, AB. There they formed close relationships with neighbours and friends. She was a member of the Whitla UCW. Fern and Gus moved to Seven Persons in 1990, Medicine Hat in 2005, and then to Bow Island in 2012. The last 11 years, Fern was a resident at the Bow Island Nursing Home.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her four daughters, Wanda (Brent) Moncks, Judy (Kelly) Van Ham, Mary Lou Hart and Debbie Stark; her son, Gordon (Sue) Wudrich; 13 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren and 20 nephews and nieces.
She was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Clarice McFaul; her husband, Gus; her three brothers, Lloyd, Wallace and Gordon and her four sisters, Laura, Dorothy, Lillian and recently Evelyn.
Playing the piano was her gift to all who heard her, along with those coveted apple pies. She will be greatly missed and always remembered with love. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with David Townsend, Life Celebrant. A private interment will take place in the Bow Island Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honour Fern with a contribution, you may do so by purchasing a Memorial Tree or donating to the 40 Mile Handy Bus. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
1941- ROBERT LLOYD SEITZ - 2026
Mr. Robert “Bob” Lloyd Seitz went to his Heavenly home on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the age of 84. The Funeral Service was held at Hillcrest Evangelical Church, 3785 13 Ave SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1J2, on March 20, 2026, with Pastor Clare Rattai officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Whispering Pines Camp – https://whisperingpinescamp.ca. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Robert Seitz. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
1932 - Ann Immel - 2026
Ann Immel, born October 28, 1932, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the age of 93 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her four children, Renee Nowicki, Rod (Bonnie) Immel, Michelle (Jack) Ward, and Warren (Deanna) Immel; 11 grandchildren, Matt (Jenny) Ward, Clayton (Natalie) Ward, Ryan (Artemis) Immel, Kristen (Jeremy) McLean, Shawn Immel, Kyle (Kim) Nowicki, Leslie Nowicki, Lacey Nowicki, Travis (Natasha) Immel, Brandon Immel, and Riley Immel;12 great grandchildren; her sister, Dianne Schmaltz; and sisters-in-law, Shirley Greenwald and Kay Riel. Ann was predeceased by her parents, John and Katherine Greenwald; her beloved husband, Ralph Immel; brother, Ralph Greenwald; and sisters, Rose Stotz and Elizabeth Steier. Ann was born in Fox Valley, SK and was raised on the family farm. She moved to Medicine Hat and worked at Hycroft China and met her future husband, Ralph Immel. She married Ralph Immel on October 29, 1951, and they moved to Redcliff. Ralph was an avid gardener, and Ann spent many hours throughout the summer canning and making preserves. Ann loved square dancing and she and Ralph were members of the Square Dancing Club in Redcliff. She also looked forward to and enjoyed summer family vacations in BC. She delighted in visits from her family and friends and hosted many family gatherings. Ann and Ralph moved to Medicine Hat in 1998 and resided at the Wellington for several years. The family would like to thank Dr. Shrives and all the kind and caring staff at The Wellington for their kindness and compassion in our mother's final days. Vigil Rights (Prayers) will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 7:00 pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 12:45 pm with Fr. Fernando Genogaling, Celebrant. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ann Immel. Funeral arrangements by
George Pratt 1943 - 2026
George Edgar Pratt, beloved husband of the late Ivadelle Pratt, passed away suddenly on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the age of 82 years. He leaves to cherish his memory, four children, Shane (Roxane) Pratt, Tracey Pratt, Ryan (Steffi) Pratt, and Faye; six grandchildren, Derian Pratt (Taylin Tierney), Dylan Pratt (Trinity Rooks), Courtney Gruszie (Kyle), Shayna Pratt (Connor Biernaskie), Nicholas Pratt and Conor Pratt; five great grandchildren, Brooks, Kolter, Emberly, Kynslee and Brynlee and his nephew, Geoff Wilson. George was predeceased by his parents, George and Ethel Pratt and his grandson, Dustin Pratt. The celebration of George’s life will take place in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Life Celebrant, Pat Grisonich officiating. A private family interment will take place. Those who wish to remember George with a donation, may do so to the Dustin Pratt Memorial Fund on Facebook - Dustin Pratt Memorial Fund; or dustinprattmemorialfund@gmail.com. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Harvey Grose 1928 - 2026
Harvey William Grose, beloved husband of Lona Grose of Redcliff, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the age of 98 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Doreen Patricia Warburton Feb 28, 1936 - Mar 17, 2026 (Age 90)
Doreen Warburton passed away on March 17th, 2026, at the age of 90 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Dawn-Loree, Dayle (Cheryl) and Susan (Greg); grandchildren, Dale (Nikki), Medan (Weston), Wesley and Curtis; great grandchildren, Ally, Angus, Bridgette and Chloe. No formal service will be held. Condolences may be sent through www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
Bonnie Lynn Yim (Jarrow) Feb 20, 1957 - March 15, 2026 (Age 69)
Bonnie passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at the Medicine Hat Hospital at the age of 69 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband, Ron; sons, Dustin, Colby, and stepson, Andrew; sisters, Pixie (Ken), Debbie, Wendy (Alfred), and Sherry; brothers, Danny, Darcy; brother-in-law, Allen; aunt, June; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Lorna Dreger; brother, Ricky; sister, Marcy; and grandma, Atha.
No formal funeral service will be held as per Bonnie’s request. The family would like to thank The Wellington and the Medicine Hat Hospital for their care and kindness. Condolences may be sent through www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
1952 - William “Doug” Irving - 2026
Surrounded by his family, William Douglas “Doug” Irving of Medicine Hat, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the age of 73 years. Doug leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife, Carol Irving; his three children, Darlene Irving (Shane Becker), David Irving (Wanda Ward), and Melissa (Darcy) Meier; grandchildren, Jessica (David) Spence, Ryder Becker, Grace Becker, Kyra Irving (Kyle Bell), Cody Irving, Austin Ward (Miranda Macaskill), Sierra Ward, Kale Ward, Cara Reid ( Luke Miller), Kaden Meier, Brennan Meier and Piercen Meier (predeceased); great-grandchildren, Weslynn Ward, Noora Green and Bennet Ward; as well as his sister and numerous in-laws. A private family interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Doug will be forever loved. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Doug Irving.
Lani Kaye Jassman April 11, 1959 - March 15, 2026
Lani Kaye Jassman (née Duce) passed away peacefully at home in her sleep next to the love of her life, Norm, after a beautiful day of playing with her grandchildren on March 15th, 2026. In addition to her husband of almost 40 years, she leaves to cherish her memory six children and their families:
Kristine and Chris (Hannah, Amber, Jeni)
Tavin and Rienko (Shae, Shae-Lee, Mila, Anneke)
Carson and Lana (Kensi)
Brittany (Eathan, Thomas, Samuel)
Dallas and Megan (Charlee, Emily)
Travis and Morgan (Walker, Hyland, Renna)
The oldest of seven children, Lani was born to Lamar & Wealtha Duce in Cardston, Alberta, where her mother instilled in her a deep love of music. Lani worked hard to pay for her own piano lessons through her teenage years and for her university education at BYU, where she graduated with her teaching degree in 1981. She embarked on a beautiful career in education, teaching both music and humanities for 20 years. Lani was a deeply empathetic, passionate teacher who positively impacted hundreds of students over the years, many of whom would reach out years later to tell her how much she meant to them. She was well-known for her “Spring Flings”, where she worked to ensure each child had their moment to shine on the stage. Lani wrote and arranged much of the music that she performed with her students and was never more impassioned than when she was in front of a choir. Her career was cut short in 2001, due to her significant health issues that she bore with a quiet grace and strength for the rest of her life.
Lani welcomed the birth of her first child, Carson, in 1983 and courageously raised him as a fiercely protective single mother until she met and married Norman Jassman in 1986 and became a loving step-mom to his two beautiful daughters, Kristine and Tavin, who she always simply called her “daughters”. Norm and Lani would settle on a little farm north of Bow Island in 1988 and welcome three more children, building a beautiful life together amongst the endless tasks of running a farm, caring for their animals, planting and tending acres of vegetables and flower beds, and teaching their children what deep, enduring love looked like.
Though she deeply mourned the loss of her teaching career, Lani devoted herself to the love and service of her family. She supported her kids in every endeavor and worked unceasingly, even when her body protested and failed her. When her grandchildren came along, she found a new purpose and dedicated the rest of her life to ensuring they knew how much she loved them. There was no more willing babysitter than Grandma Lani and she often had several grandchildren on her lap as she read story after story to them, and always with the perfect voice for each character.
Lani knew that her time on this earth wouldn’t be long and she wanted to hang on long enough to ensure her grandkids were all old enough to remember her and how much she loved them. She knew that when she had finished her work, her beloved father, Lamar, would be there to escort her home. Her family takes great comfort in knowing her goals were achieved and that she rests now from all pain, her memory cherished forever. A Celebration Of Life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 - 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Monday, March 23, 2026. A Time of visitation will be between 10:00 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. The Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Mr. Lynn Edwards conducting. A Reception and fellowship to follow at Reflections Reception Facility.
Private Family Interment thereafter at the Cardston Cemetery.
Lani’s service will be live-streamed. Those who cannot attend but wish to experience the celebration may do so by visiting the Cook Southland website and selecting the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. If friends so desire, donations in memory of Lani may be made to the Alberta Music Education Foundation through their website: https://amef.ca. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Allan Longworth Nov 27, 1935 - Mar 5, 2026
On Thursday March 5, 2026, Alfred Allan Longworth “Al” passed away peacefully at the age of 90, surrounded by his loving family at his care home in Medicine Hat. Al’s kindness, positive attitude and humour touched everyone lucky enough to have known him.
He is survived by his children, Bradley and Raelynn (Lloyd); his cherished grandchildren, Kaylee and Hayden and their father Jeff; brothers, Lorne, Earl, Carl, Lyle and sisters, Kay, June and Priscilla. Al’s family meant everything to him and he was always willing to help in any way he could. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Darlene; parents, Joseph and Catherine Longworth and brothers, Sheldon and Dean.
Al was born on November 27, 1935 in Springwater, Saskatchewan. After growing up in nearby Woodrow, he moved to Regina where he worked and later married his high school sweetheart, Darlene, on July 9, 1960. They honeymooned in Yellowstone and within three years, started their family. Al had a long and varied career with the University of Regina and ultimately became a carpenter.
Al and Darlene spent many joyous years raising their children, traveling and after retirement, spending winters in Mesa, Arizona with family and friends.
Al had a huge passion for sports and was very athletic, playing curling and baseball most of his life. He was also a devout Saskatchewan Roughrider fan.
Al’s legacy is one of kindness, hard work, humour and commitment to his family. His gentle ways, funny stories and quirky sayings as well as his love of singing will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
A private celebration of life with family and close friends will be held at a future date this spring. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Al’s name can be made directly to the Alzheimer's Society, 412 - 3 Street S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 0H1. Honoured to serve the family is
Dwayne Giroux May 6, 1951 - March 15, 2026
With, Judy, his loving wife of 48 years by his side, Dwayne Morris John Giroux passed away at St. Joseph’s Home - Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the age of 74 years.
Along with Judy, Dwayne is survived by his family: Audrey (Randy) Greer, Alva Boucher, Lovina Berner, Eugene (Bernice) Giroux, Lyle (Dot) Braunwarth, Faye Cumbers, Karen Crawford (Brian) and extended families. He was predeceased by his son, Jeffrey; parents, Pauline and Jim Giroux; Judy’s parents, Vic and Minnie Braunwarth; siblings, Allen and Joseph in infancy, Jim (Terry), Howard (Lena), Phillip (Joan), Bernice (Rudy) Zirrie and Edmond; brothers-in-law, Carol Berner, Bob Crawford, Dick Perks and Ed Preston.
Dwayne was born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan on May 6, 1951, the youngest of 12 children. Being raised in a large family, many of Dwayne’s siblings had already left home when he was born so he had his Mama wrapped around his little finger.
After graduation, Dwayne attended Sask Tech Institute in Moose Jaw and was hired right out of school by Calgary Power in 1971, working there for 25 years. In between his careers with the power companies, he started his own contracting business in Foremost. Dwayne always loved working with his hands building and renovating houses. In 1997, Dwayne had the opportunity to work for South Alta REA . This was when the farmer owned co-op decided to do their own power construction and maintenance, which later became Equs. He thoroughly enjoyed working there until his retirement, making many lasting friendships along the way.
A Celebration of Dwayne’s life will be held at a later date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Memorial tributes in Dwayne’s name may be made directly to the SPCA, 55 Southwest Drive S.W., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 8E8. Honoured to serve the family is
1944 - Helen Diane Klinck - 2026
Helen "Diane" Klinck, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at the age of 81 years. Born on October 7, 1944, in Edmonton to Kenneth and Ann Hudson, Diane lived a life full of love, laughter, and learning, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many. Diane was a dedicated educator who devoted her career to shaping young minds. Her commitment and passion for teaching earned her the admiration of students and parents alike, culminating in the honor of being voted Teacher of the Year in 1991. Known affectionately as "Grandma Bear," Diane's classroom resonated with warmth and music, bringing joy and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to be her students. Her gentle yet firm approach left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. A skilled pianist, Diane often brought the magic of music into the lives of her students, creating an environment where creativity thrived. Her love for children and storytelling extended beyond the classroom as she penned children’s books, beautifully illustrated by her loving husband, Don. Together, they created a world of wonder and imagination, cherished by children and parents alike. Diane married Don, on July 6, 1983. Together, they built a life filled with shared adventures. Diane's family was the cornerstone of her world, and she was the heart of theirs. Her loyalty and caring nature were a constant source of strength and comfort to all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Don; her sister, Donna (Wayne) Minke; her sons, Aaron (Kerry) and Christopher; and her stepson, Douglas (Linda). Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Sean, Connor, Daniel (Reed), Soda, Blade, Locklyn, Raine, Sierra, and Levi, and her great-grandchildren, Allison and Valerie. Diane also leaves behind her niece, Christine (George); her nephew, Ryan (Karen) and their daughter, Kelsey; her sister-in-law, Nat; and brothers-in-law, Dennis and Robert, along with numerous extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Ann and Kenneth. She will be greatly missed and forever remembered. The memorial service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 2:00 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging in to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Diane’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Diane Klinck. Funeral arrangements by
Arden Brainerd Hoel March 11, 1946 - March 14, 2026 (Age 80)
Arden was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and steadfast friend. He had a deep commitment to his Lord and Savior, family, and country where he served for 21 years with the RCMP. His greatest achievement while with the RCMP was setting up the Saskatchewan Crimestoppers program.
Born in Coronation, Alberta, March 11, 1946, he was the beloved son of Oliver & Dezza Hoel. He was the fifth of six children and although money was scarce in this Pastor’s home, love was plentiful. He was predeceased by his mother and father; brother, Dwight; sister, Karen; brother-in-law, Roger Malonik; mother-in-law, Caroline Wilson; brother-in-law, Roy Wilson and sister-in-law, Shirley Elliott.
Arden was a man of integrity, who loved intensely, laughed often and forgave easily. He was always up for an adventure and a prank or two and Patricia never knew where the next stop on the route would be. He loved his time with the RCMP and served in Saskatchewan and NWT. His plan was to be a lifer with the RCMP, but God had other plans. After 21 years, he felt called to serve as Provincial Director with One Hope Canada (formerly CSSM). He put his excellent administrative skills to work to revitalize and revamp the head office in order to be of better service to the 11 Bible camps serving under the CSSM umbrella. This proved to be challenging and yet ever so rewarding. After nine years, Arden and Patricia headed to Capernwray Harbour Bible Centre for a year of biblical studies and fell in love with staff and students. Many students dropped by for advice and big fatherly hugs and he felt this was one of the best gifts God ever gave to them as a couple. His next stop was Edmonton where they had family and where he helped give wonderful care to his mother-in-law, Caroline Wilson. When Arden closed one door, he never looked back and embraced each opportunity with enthusiasm. He thought it would be great fun to pump gas and even that he excelled at. He worked at various jobs until Alzheimer’s made that impossible.
He made countless lifetime friends through their many travels and especially the nine years of full-time RVing and residing in Mesa, Arizona. His big presence filled a room and even Alzheimer’s could not take that away. He was loved by his caregivers at Riverview Age Care and despite some “moments” they got to see many glimpses of who this amazing man was.
He will be forever loved and missed by his high school bestie, Patricia; treasured children, Tricia, Darcy (Crystal), Shawna (Cliff); and 11 amazing grandchildren, Shoshone (Kobe), Samuel(Sienna), Hannah, Seth (Kamryn), Letitia, Jacob (Keana), Robert, Victoria, Lexi, Charlotte, Eli; 2 great-grandchildren, Xavier & Theo; brother, Garland (Clarice); sisters, Harriette (Verne Cunningham) and Amber (Warren Kittler); sisters-in-law, Beverley Conroy (Bob) and Myrna Hoel; brother-in-law, Ross Elliott; sister-in-law, Colleen Wilson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
We will celebrate Arden’s life at Temple Baptist Church, 606 - 7 St SW Medicine Hat on Sat, March 28 @ 1:30 pm. A livestream of the service will be available to view by visiting https://www.templebaptist.ca/church-online/#funeral. If desired, donations in memory of Arden can be made to One Hope Canada, 3-213 Henderson Hwy, Box 323, Winnipeg, MB R2L 1LB. Condolences may be sent through www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
Avis Joan Schelske Dec 29, 1960 - Mar 12, 2026 (Age 65)
Avis Joan Schelske passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on March 12th, 2026, in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Avis was born on December 29th 1960 in Bassano, Alberta to Molly and Ephraim Schelske. She was predeceased by both her parents and eldest sister, Jacquelyn. Avis is survived by her partner, Tom Hochman; stepson, Ray-Al (Jesika) and little grandson, Arrow. She is also survived by siblings, Marie of Edmonton, Sheila (Brian) of Matraville, NSW Australia, Cara of Beaumont, Phyllis (Ken) of Bassano, Bruce (Wendy) of Strathcona County, Betty (Arlene) of Medicine Hat, and John (Suzanne) of Calgary; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Avis completed her primary education at Bassano School then attended the University of Alberta where she studied Paleontology. The number of careers Avis had cannot be counted on 2 hands alone and each one was done with joy and memory making for her and her colleagues. She started working as many teenage girls do by babysitting. She worked at Bud’s Cafe in Bassano then Taco Time in Calgary. She spent a summer working at the Royal Tyrell Museum in Drumheller where she was cleaning a large turtle fossil for study followed by a few years at Dinosaur Provincial Park. She was also the camp cook supporting a dig for fossils near Milk River. She went on to work at the Bassano Times for a few years followed by Global Thermoelectric. She and Tom then moved to Medicine Hat where she worked at Sears until it closed.
Avis was the youngest of 9 children and enjoyed referring to herself by her Borg designation Nine of Nine. The sciences were a big part of her life and by any definition she was an amateur scientist. She loved all things nature such as bird watching and feeding, she dabbled in astronomy with her dad’s telescope, but most of all she loved dinosaurs, fossil hunting and camping in the Badlands of Alberta. Another thing that brought her joy was her cats. Many of whom were adopted strays. If you ever heard her sing her Tom Cat song she wrote, you would understand her passion. It is a surprise to us it did not make the Billboard top 100. There was nothing better than a big laugh from Avis. Seeing her perform in a play put on by the Bassano Arts Council was funny and entertaining with some of her improvised theatrics.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 pm in the Bassano Community Hall on July 4, 2026. All are welcome to attend. Condolences may be sent through www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
Theresa Renner 1931 - 2025
Rosanna “Theresa” Renner passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the age of 94 years. She was predeceased by her husband and best friend, John Renner in 2019, and her son, Terry Renner in 1997. She is survived by three sons, Garnet (Jean), Blaine (Deb), and Kurt (Patty Romman); one daughter-in-law, Darlene along with eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren. A private interment will take place in the Hillside Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Reception at the MEDICINE HAT GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
