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.
JOSEPH MILLER Aug 15, 1935 – July 6, 2025
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our Father & Grandfather, Joseph “Joe” Miller, falling short of his 90th birthday. Born in Chandannagar, India (a suburb of Calcutta), and was later fostered by Nelson Taylor to come to England to start his new life. Dad had overcome so many obstacles as a child in India, but was a proven winner when he started his new life in London, England. He excelled in school, and became a successful draftsman with the London Electricity Board. He then met the love of his life, Beryl Kingston in 1957, riding around on their Lambretta’s. They were engaged for a short period of time and married in September 1958. Soon after that, on October 23, 1959, their son Mark was born, and then on July 16, 1962, they were blessed with their daughter, Tanya. On November 5, 1974, he picked up his family and immigrated to Medicine Hat, Alberta, to start another new adventure with Western Co-operative Fertilizers. After the company shut down after almost 10 years, he moved on to many different jobs, ranging from oil field work to owning his own painting company and a wedding photography business for many years. He was also a Maitre'd at many restaurants in Medicine Hat. Although he had many jobs, he was always happy knowing he was supporting his family and providing amazing service to the community, where he has made his home for the last 50 years. Joe was predeceased by his wife, Beryl Miller, on October 10, 2024, and leaves to cherish his memory his son, Mark Joseph Miller (Jill Miller); grandchildren Joseph Miller, Jordon Miller and Justin Miller; daughter, Tanya George (Wally Long); and his granddaughter, Aysia George. At Joe’s request, there will be no formal funeral service; cremation has taken place. For those who wish to remember our parents, Joe & Beryl Miller, there will be a Celebration of Life on July 26, 2025, at the Big Marble Go Centre (formerly the Leisure Center), 2000 Division Ave N, Medicine Hat, AB from 1:00 – 4:00 pm in the Sage room. Everyone is welcome to come and share stories. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Joseph Miller. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
1939 - Rita Darr - 2025
Rita Theresa Darr of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Ray Darr, passed away peacefully, with family and friends at her side, on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, at the age of 85 years. She leaves to cherish her memory children, Myron (Gabby), Leslie (Karen), Delphine (Doug), and Noel (Camille); grandchildren, Lane, Ross, Tori (Ben), Haley (Caiden), David, Theresa, Nathan, Kaleigh, Kearah, Tylan (Katrina) and Braeden; great-grandchildren; Mollie, Rose-Marie, Kendall, Teagan, Colin, Westen; brother, Lenard (Lena) Wirachowsky; sisters-in-law, Phyllis, Shirley, and Jeannine; as well as numerous nieces and nephews; Rita was predeceased by her husband, Ray; parents, John and Anna Wirachowsky; grandson, Daniel; and brothers, Michael, Ed, John, Raymond, and Dennis, and sister-in-law, Jean. Rita was born on November 6, 1939, and raised on the family farm with five brothers close to Leipzig, Saskatchewan. Farm life and faith were priorities growing up. After graduating as Valedictorian, Rita moved to Medicine Hat and lived with Aunt Mary Zubot. She began working with the Bank of Commerce, where she met Ray Darr, Manager of the Solo Grocery Store on Aberdeen Street. After the realization that both Rita and Ray had the exact same birthday, a new chapter began. Following their marriage in 1959, Rita was a homemaker while the family grew, then she began work at Canada Trust. In 1973, the next chapter began with purchasing and operating Deluxe Groceteria, and they turned it into a thriving business. The farm life followed with an acreage near Seven Persons, where a huge garden of goodness grew each year, along with various animals. Rita sported a dark tan every year from working in the garden. Her cooking and baking talents were legendary, and meals and desserts were shared with many. Rita then began her quest to help others by working at Central Park Lodge as a Health Care Aide. In retirement, Rita and Ray moved back to Medicine Hat. Rita was deeply involved in the church, CWL, the condo committees, and playing cards. Her faith was strong, and her prayers were meaningful. Her dedication to community was well known. When Jesus reached for her hand, she knew and accepted His welcome, and trusted her faith would take her happily to the other side. Many Thanks to EMS, Medicine Hat Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Home for the professional care Rita received. Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 7:00 pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, on Monday, July 14th, 2025, at 10:30 am with Fr. Iqbal Khurshid, Celebrant. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Rita Darr. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
TIM KOTTMEIER 1949 - 2025
It is with sorrow that we, the family of Timothy Roy Kottmeier relay his peaceful passing at his home in Fort McMurray, Alberta, on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the age of 76 years. “Tim" was born the son to proud parents, Stuart Roy (Tim Sr) and Rose Ellen Kottmeier (nee Farrell) on March 15, 1949, in Medicine Hat. He leaves behind a daughter, Andrea (Bret) Sinclair; sisters, Dale (John) Beaven, Colleen Kottmeier and Margaret (Bob) Lohmaier; nephew, Graham (Anita) Beaven; nieces, Kyra (Monty) Beaven, Scott and Christina (Rob) McKinley as well as great-nieces and nephews, Nina, Henry, Quinn and Elizabeth. He will be greatly missed by his Fort McMurray family Bill and Jacquie Fricker; Michael, Dawn, Gabriella and William Fricker; Jennifer, Les, Lennin and Rhodes Macdougall; his “brother”, Lorne (Peggy) Davids and his former wife, Patricia Moar. He was predeceased by his parents, Stuart Roy Kottmeier and Rose Ellen Kottmeier as well as his younger sisters, Shelley (Joe) Litowski and Kathleen Kottmeier. Tim grew up in Ralston, AB where he became an altar boy and Queen Scout. He attended McCoy Sr High School in Medicine Hat and later went on to serve in the militia with the South Alberta Light Horse Armoured Reconnaissance, a regiment of the Canadian Army Reserve. Tim further studied at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, AB. He formed the band “Loading Zone” with Lorne Davids, Daryl Clark and Fred Georgiadis where he played keyboards. He married Patricia in 1972, and had a baby girl in 1973 in Edmonton. He was a great lover of music, mechanics, hard work, cars and motorcycles. Moreover, Tim had a work ethic to be envied. He made many friends during his career as a draftsman/piping designer/estimator before finally retiring from Syncrude in 2019. Tim was an artist and loved adventure, especially when it came to motorcycles. He discovered ice fishing and snowmobiling during his last years. Beloved destinations included Montana, Elkwater (Cypress Hills) Park, Vancouver Island, Western Canada, Ontario, Newfoundland, Cape Breton Island and Tennessee. His favourite places include the town of Banff, David Thompson Campground near Saskatchewan River Crossing (Abraham Lake), the Columbia Ice Fields, and the Reynolds Museum in Wetaskiwin, AB. A natural father, mentor, student and sponsor, he will be greatly missed for his deep sense of humour and easy laugh. A Celebration of Tim’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901-13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Thursday, July 10th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Life Celebrant Gerry Getz officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery with a time of fellowship to follow thereafter in the Cook Southland Reception Facility. Tim’s service will be live-streamed. Those who cannot attend but wish to experience his celebration may visit the Cook Southland Funeral Chapel website and select the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to Arthritis Society Canada or the Heart and Stroke Foundation Canada. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Howard Leroy Baigent Nov 18, 1952 - July 2, 2025
Howard Leroy Baigent passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at St. Joseph’s Home on July 2, 2025, at the age of 72 years. Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Gail Baigent, with whom he celebrated nearly 54 years of marriage. He will also be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Tracey (Wes) Kornelson, and son, Chad (Vanessa) Baigent. He was a proud grandfather/papa to his seven grandchildren, Derrian (Shaun) Hallas, Kolton Kornelson, Abby (Calen) Anton, Kurtis (Vanessa) Kornelson, Madison (Jaubron) Baigent, Destiny (Hunter) Baigent, and Tristan Baigent. Howard treasured being a great-grandfather to his six great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Walker, Liam, Everly, Ollie, and Benni. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Marian Banilevic; four sisters, Ellen Whitcroft, Pauline Yamniuk, Gladys (Brian) Therens, and Janice Baigent; sister-in-law, Barb (Tim) Jackman; and brother-in-law, Kevin (Carol) Banilevic; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbours, and his special friend, Bella. Howard was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Mary Baigent; brothers, Donald Wayne Baigent and Ronald Baigent; father-in-law, Steve Banilevic; and his brother-in-law, Brian Yamniuk. Howard was born in Moose Jaw, SK, on November 18, 1952. He met the love of his life, Gail, and they were married on July 17, 1971, in Moose Jaw. He and Gail were blessed with two children, who found the loves of their lives and blessed them with seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Family was the heart of everything, whether it was a holiday gathering, special milestones, or the quiet family moments in between. Howard found true purpose and joy being surrounded by those he loved the most. Howard not only left a mark on his family, but he left a lasting impression with everyone he met, both personally and professionally, from all the years in the car industry and owning his car lot “Baigent Auto Sales”. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched along the way. A Celebration of Howard’s life will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB, on Sunday, July 27th, 2025, at 2:00 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Howard’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. A private interment will be held prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Howard’s memory may be made to Carmel Hospice at St. Joseph’s Home, 156 – 3rd Street NE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5M1, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, PO Box 460 STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9, and Kidney Foundation of Canada, 6007 – 1A Street SW, Calgary, AB, T2H 0G5. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Howard Baigent.
1973 - Neil Gordon - 2025
Neil Edward Gordon passed away on Monday, July 7th, 2025, at the age of 52 years. Neil leaves to cherish his memory his mom, Lyn Gordon. He was predeceased by his father, Angus Gordon; brother, Scott Gordon; and sister, Traci Gordon. Neil will forever be missed by all those who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Neil’s life will take place at a later date. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Neil Gordon. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
Virginia Mason 1937 - 2025
Virginia Patricia Mason, beloved wife of the late Donald Mason, passed away at St. Joseph’s Home - Carmel Hospice in Medicine Hat following a short illness on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the age of 87 years. A private service will be held at a later date. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
TARRA WHITE 1979 ~ 2025
Tarra Louise White passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the age of 45 years. A celebration of her life will be held at Ralph’s Texas Bar & Steakhouse, 1249 Trans Canada Way S.E., Medicine Hat on Sunday July 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. To read more about Tarra’s life or to offer condolences to her family, please visit our website at http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
Teresa Cone 1952 - 2025
Teresa Marie Cone (nee: Ibach), beloved wife of George Cone of Medicine Hat, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 73 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Timothy Koch of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of Marie Koch, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 89 years. He also leaves to cherish his memory six children, Audrey (Wilfred) Schneider, Allan Koch, Kelvin (Terese) Koch, Doreen (Ron) Scherger, Clarence (Robynn Carlson) Koch, Laura (Dalton Comm) Koch; twelve grandchildren, Lynda Staples, Leandra Schneider, Jesse Koch, Karlie Koch, Rylie Koch, Marissa Stoik, Jared Koch, Mitchell Koch, Justin Koch, Shantel Ohler, Megan Koch, Hayden Koch; four great grandchildren. He was predeceased parents Simon and Elizabeth Koch; two brothers Ben and Anton Koch. Timothy was born on January 10, 1936, to Simon and Elizabeth Koch. He attended the Seattle Country school north of Fox Valley, Saskatchewan. Timothy took pride in working the farm, attending cattle sales and checking crops. He also enjoyed visiting with family and friends, gardening and playing cards. Thank you to the doctors and nursing staff (4th West) of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for their professionalism and care in our time of need. It was greatly appreciated. The family would like to thank the nurses, staff and residents of Masterpiece Southland Meadows for their care and kind words over the past year. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and at the church on Thursday one hour prior to the mass. Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated in the HOLY FAMILY PARISH (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. with Fr. Iqbal Khurshid celebrant. The mass will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Timothy’s obituary page on our website, for the link. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. Those who wish to remember Timothy with a donation, may do so to the Heart and Stroke foundation or a charity of your choice. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Leo Volk May 11, 1937 – July 3, 2025
It is with profound sadness yet appreciation and pride that we announce the passing of our dad, Leo Volk, at the age of 88 years. He passed away peacefully at the Carmel Hospice of St. Joseph’s Home in Medicine Hat, Alberta, shortly after midnight on the morning of July 3rd, 2025.
Leo is lovingly survived by his children, Donna (Gerald) Wagner, Michelle (Mike) Weisgerber and Craig (Carmen) Volk; grandchildren, Melissa (Andy) Loignon, Nicole (Jay) Schauerte, Grant (Shannon) Wagner, Nick (Jenn) Weisgerber, Danielle Weisgerber (Larson Laing), Monique Weisgerber, Theo Volk, Lowen Volk and Aubrey Volk; and great-grandchildren, Sierra Loignon, Paxton and Kaitlyn Schauerte, Gabrielle and Willa Wagner, Kayleigh and McKinley Laing, and Greyson and Maxwell Weisgerber. Leo is also survived by his sisters, Rose Pisoni (Italo) and Julie Schafer; in-laws, George Wagner, Jean Wingenbach, Ed Wagner, Victoria Wagner and Armond Bachelu; as well as many nephews and nieces, too numerous to mention. He is predeceased by his wife of 43 years, Katherine Volk, in 2003; his daughter, Leona Volk, in 2002; his parents, Anton and Elizabeth Volk; and his sister, Emily Anhelher. He was also predeceased by his brothers-in-law, John Anhelher and Peter Schafer; other in-laws, Anne and Ben Hittel, Joe and Trudy Wagner, Tony Wingenbach, Rose and Leon Ebelher, Adolph Wagner, Bert Wagner, and Betty Bachelu. Leo was born on a farm north of Richmound, Saskatchewan. but was raised on the family farm near Fox Valley. He took over this farm after marrying Katherine Wagner on October 6, 1959. Dad was a true farmer and caretaker of the land. He respected the elements that were out of his control and accepted the outcomes that the Lord provided. With no formal training, he was exceptionally talented at devising solutions and resolving the numerous mechanical problems that arose with any piece of machinery that required attention. Dad served on the RM council of Fox Valley for 20 years and made many meaningful contributions to the area where he lived. He invested hundreds of hours in the construction of the Fox Valley Curling Club and ensured that every detail was completed neatly and carefully. He was also instrumental in establishing the Fox Den Motel, which opened when lodging became an issue during the oil and gas boom in the area. Dad was a patient and successful coach volunteering for his kids’ softball, baseball, and curling teams. Dad had an incredible talent for woodworking. He thoroughly enjoyed this hobby and created many items that were both functional and beautiful. He spent countless hours in his woodshop on the farm, creating incredible works of art that he would sell to local people in the community. In his later years, he spent his time crafting birdhouses and wooden hot pads, which are treasured by all who received them. He even enlisted the help of his grandkids to help glue and sand these treasures. After their retirement in 1995, Leo and Kathy moved to Medicine Hat. They truly enjoyed their retirement and life in the big city. Dad enjoyed having a beautiful lawn and a large backyard garden. They were very active in the parish, and Dad could always be seen greeting and ushering people as they entered the church. They loved going for coffee and visiting with friends, family and neighbours. Dad loved to volunteer at the Prairie Gleaners Society, cutting up vegetables to be freeze-dried, packaged, and sent to developing countries to be used in soups. Dad was always thankful to be surrounded by his family and friends throughout his life. He thoroughly enjoyed these visits, accompanied by a good cup of coffee, a game of Cribbage, and a drink at happy hour. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. The family would like to thank the staff at Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, Medicine Hat Hospital and Carmel Hospice at St. Joseph’s home for the excellent care he received. A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB. If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Leo’s memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. The Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Rd SE on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 1:00 pm. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed via Youtube at Medicine Hat Holy Family Church. Memorial gifts in Leo’s memory may be made to A.J.‘s Loan Cupboard or the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Leo Volk. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
1945 - Geraldine Friess - 2025
Geraldine Annette Friess, late of Medicine Hat, passed away on July 7th, 2025, at the age of 79 years. A private family graveside will be held at Saamis Prairie View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Geraldine’s memory may be made to S.P.C.A., 55 Southview Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Geraldine Friess. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
Trudy Lee Perry Jan 11, 1957 - July 7, 2025 (Age 68)
Trudy Lee Perry of Redcliff, beloved wife of the late Terrance “Terry” Fandrick, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 68 years. Trudy leaves to cherish her memory four daughters, Crystal Dame (Jamie) , Tania (Buddy) Bell, Tonya (Scott) Byam and Tisha (Chad) Walker; one stepson, Troy (Stephanie) Fandrick; one stepdaughter, Amber Bjorgan; sixteen grandchildren, Hunter, Savanna, Logan, Ashlyn, Brittney, Bradie, Madison, Celena, Kaid, Kelin, Kaeden, Shane, Kennedy, Belle, Travis and Amber; seven great grandchildren, Brynlee, Vaida, Peyton, Phoenix, Brayden, Kaycen and Maylee, as well as numerous extended children, grandchildren and great grandchildren; five sisters, Julie, Mary, Leslie, Robin and Nicky; one brother, Vance; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and very dear friend, Gwen Schimpf. She was predeceased by her parents, Guelda and Bob Perry, brother, Otis and sister, Colleen. Trudy was born in Summerside, Prince Edward Island on January 11, 1957 to Guelda and Bobby Perry. Trudy moved her family our west to Medicine Hat in 1980. She had many jobs over the years including, ladies auxiliary, Medicine Hat Legion and retired at the Redcliff Food Fair. Trudy loved baking in her spare time and enjoyed anything to do with music. She was a huge Medicine Hat Tigers and Mavericks fan. Trudy enjoyed camping and making memories with her family and friends. The celebration of Trudy’s life will take place in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Life Celebrant David Townsend officiating. A come and go luncheon will follow at the Baden Powell Centre in Redcliff (202 1s Street SW). The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please revisit this page, for the link. Those who wish to remember Trudy with a donation, may do so to the Carmel Hospice (St. Joseph’s Home) c/o 156 - 3 St. NE, Medicine Hat, T1A 5M1. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Trudy Perry. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
Pamela Moen 1952 - 2025
Pamela “Pam” Jean Moen of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of Brian Moen, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the age of 72 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
WAYNE HELLER
Wayne Heller, of Medicine Hat, Alberta, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 76. He was the son of Bill and Elsie Heller (Schorr), brother of Lloyd Heller and beloved husband of Katharine Heller. A wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, he will be profoundly missed by his wife, Kathy, his daughters, Anne and Rosalyn; and their families, Lance, Eric, and grandchildren Aurora and Ericson. In lieu of a funeral service, the family requests that you honor his memory in your own way.
JANNY SLOFSTRA 1937 - 2025
Mrs. Janny Slofstra, beloved wife of the late Mr. Martin Slofstra, passed away at Sunnyside Nursing Home in Medicine Hat on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the age of 88 years. Funeral arrangements will be announce upon completion. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is
BRUCE ALLEN HUDSON Sept 24, 1964 - July 7, 2025 (Age 60)
Bruce was born in Picture Butte, AB. He was raised on the farm with his 5 siblings. Bruce was a dedicated father and husband. He was a hardworking individual who always put the needs of others before his own. He was willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Bruces personality brought warmth and joy to everyone he encountered. His excitement for music brought smiles to all. He had a knack for fixing and reselling record players. Bruce passed away at the age of 60. His passing will remain in the hearts of family, friends and all who knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Naomi; his daughters, Katie, Allie, Cassy; his son, Kevin; grandchildren, Masen, Aleeah, Holden and Denver. No formal service will be held. Condolences may be forwarded to www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
