SATURDAY, JULY 25TH, 2026

 

 

NAKAGAWA,

Katie NAKAGAWA

Katie Keiko Nakagawa, beloved wife of Shig Nakagawa, passed away peacefully on July 11th 2026 at the age of 88 years. Katie was born April 12, 1938 in Vancouver B.C. Katie resided in Lethbridge where she chose teaching as a profession. She was a dedicated kindergarten teacher and she cherished the lifelong friendships she made as a result of it. She was adored by the children she taught. Even with the hardships of living in internment camps and the early losses of her husband Minoru (Min) Koyata and her youngest daughter Stacey, she never wavered in her joy, happiness, and appreciation for her everyday life. Katie was able to begin married life again when she met Shig Nakagawa. They enjoyed golfing and traveling in their retirement. She continued pursuing her love of Karaoke, Japanese dancing, and involvement with the Buddhist Temple. Katie was an active volunteer and supporter of many organizations in need. She loved being part of many groups and enjoyed the company of many wonderful people. She is survived by her loving husband Shig Nakagawa, daughter Wendy Takeda (Al), granddaughters Kate (Josh) and Emily (Bennett), siblings Jim, Anna and Ken; as well as many relatives from the Ito, Koyata, and Nakagawa families. She was predeceased by her husband Minoru (Min) Koyata, daughter Stacey Koyata, her parents Heizo and Hide, siblings Yasuko, Tomoko, Haruko, Mark, Peter, and Mary, as well as numerous sister and brother in-laws, parent in-laws, and nieces and nephews. As her family, we are going to miss her calm demeanor, her gentle loving ways, and her unwavering support. We will always remember her beautiful singing, the amazing family meals we shared, and her wonderful New Years celebration suppers. We will never forget her freezer full to the brim of what she called cool treats. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Louise Dalphond and all the exceptional care staff at Extendicare Fairmont. Their professionalism and good nature made this journey so much easier for Katie and us, her family. We cannot forget the amazing support for Katie from Auntie Joan and our great friends Eiko, Suzie, Aingeal, Heather, Wendy #2, Joy, and Lillian. In lieu of Koden please consider donating to the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta or the charity of your choice. Flowers are greatfully declined. Funeral will be held at The Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta July 26th at 11:00 a.m. 470 40th Street South Lethbridge.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

 

 

HANSEN,

Rolande HANSEN

Our beautiful, fiesty mother, Rolande Hansen (nee Chabot), (Beauchesne), born Nov 16, 1930, has left to meet her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, in her 96th year. She will be missed by her 7 children, (Emile Beauchesne), and 2 step children (Clifford Hansen) as well as spouses and 22 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren. She wants to meet them all in heaven. There will be a celebration of her life to be announced for early this fall. The family also wishes to thank the loving staff at Park Meadows for her end of life care.

 

RICHARDSON, Glen

RICHARDSON, Glen Robert June 26, 1939 – July 19, 2026

Glen Richardson passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026. Subscribe to Glen’s tribute page at http://www.MHFH.com to receive updates when the tribute, condolences, memories, and photos are posted with McInnis & Holloway.

 

MCKENZIE, Tom

Tom McKenzie 1947 – 2026

With sadness we share the passing of Thomas Sherman McKenzie of Bow Island. Tom was born November 5, 1947, and passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at the age of 78 years.
Tom was loved and cherished by many people including, his wife Irene McKenzie (née Kellough); daughters Shannon (Victor) McKenzie Bael of Taber and Neilly (Leroy) Becker of Bow Island; grandchildren Zackery (Vanessa) Giesbrecht-Bael and Georgia Giesbrecht-Bael of Taber, Haidyn and Quyn Becker of Bow Island as well as many relatives in Lakefield and Peterborough, Ontario.
He was predeceased by his parents John “Jack” and Denise McKenzie of Lakefield, Ontario; parents-in-law Fred and Margaret Kellough of Stettler.
Tom was born in Peterborough, Ontario and lived in Lakefield, Ontario until he was twenty one. On January 13, 1969, he joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and did his training in Regina and Penhold. Tom spent twenty eight years of service in Olds, Stettler (where he met and married the love of his life Irene Kellough), Ponoka (where his two daughters, Shannon and Neilly were born), Slave Lake, Bow Island, Wabasca-Desmarais and the Calgary Airport and then he retired in Bow Island.
During his R.C.M.P service, Tom was honored to receive the R.C.M.P Commissioner’s Commendation, The Star of Courage (second highest honor in Canada) by Governor General Ray Hnatyshyn in Ottawa and the Carnegie Medal from the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission.
Tom loved his country, his occupation and his family. He was especially devoted to his daughters and grandchildren. Tom loved having them all near him and was so happy they lived close by.
He had many interests: bowling, curling, fishing, baseball, track and field, cards, especially crib with anybody and everybody. After moving to Bow Island, he took up golf and spent many hours on the golf course with anybody who would golf with him. Tom enjoyed working with his hands, always willing to help anyone he could when in need.
Even after Tom retired, he was a policeman until his last days, always willing to help people.
Everyone is invited to a Celebration of Tom’s life at the Golden Age Club, 206 – 5 Avenue East, Bow Island on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 1:30 P.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
For those who are unable to attend in person, a recording of the service will be made available on Tom’s obituary page on our website by Friday, July 31, 2026.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Tom’s name may be made directly to a charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

 

GRUNINGER, Carol

CAROL GRUNINGER 1934 ~ 2025

Carol Gruninger, beloved wife of the late Anton (Don) Gruninger, passed away on October 24, 2025 at the age of 90 years.
Carol was born on December 2, 1934 in Cardston, Alberta to Jerome and Alice (Higgins) Hodgdon. She was the 9th of 10 children growing up on the family farm in Whiskey Gap.
Carol married Don Gruninger, on October 5th, 1953 and together they had 2 sons. Wayne was born in the summer of 1955 and five years and one day later, their second son, Dale was born.
In 1963 the family moved from Milk River to the mixed farming operation of George Dudley southwest of Magrath.
In 1969 the draw of a career outside the home resulted in her taking a job at the Magrath Trading Company. After a few months there, she started a new job working at the Bank of Montreal in Magrath, where she worked for twenty six years until her retirement.
In retirement, Carol enjoyed visiting with family and friends to play cards, have a glass of wine, laugh and telling stories. She and her husband also enjoyed taking car trips with their good friends, Mark and Maria Passey to such places as Nevada, California and Arizona to visit their son and his family. Carol also enjoyed going to the horse races and casino, where she became a very adept poker player.
Carol is survived by her son Wayne (Karen Nagai) Gruninger of Gilbert Arizona and Dale Gruninger of Lethbridge. As well as 3 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving sister Faye Gruninger of Lethbridge.
The family would like to extend their gratitude and appreciation to the compassionate caring staff at Cedar Creek Adaptacare, where mother was a resident at the time of her passing.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at St. Basil’s Catholic Church, 604 13 St N, Lethbridge, AB.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

 

 

COOMBER, Marion

MARION COOMBER

Marion passed away in Lethbridge on Tuesday, June 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Marion was born on May 16, 1956, in Liverpool, England.
She is survived by her eternal companion, Bruce Coomber, and her children: Leah (Ryan) Martin, and Samuel Hornberger.
Marion was an accomplished artist, seamstress, and entrepreneur. She devoted her life to the service of others as a registered nurse of over 45 years, and as a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was well known for her many talents and involvement within the Raymond community and surrounding area. She loved music, art, cooking, and traveling. She passed her creative passions to both of her children.
A viewing ceremony will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Christensen Salmon Generational Funeral Home, (703 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge). A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 10:00 am at the Stirling Memorial Cemetery.
The family wishes to send a special thank you to the ICU staff at Chinook Regional Hospital for their care and compassion.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

 

 

TOEWS, Edward “Ed”

Edward “Ed” Toews 1929 ~ 2026

It is with sadness that the family of Edward “Ed” Toews, beloved husband of Muriel Doreen Toews (nee Cockerill), announces that he passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in Cardston, Alberta, at the age of 97 years.
Ed is survived by his daughters, Catherine (Brian) Rarick and Brenda (Jim) Rathwell, along with grandchildren Heidi Rasmussen, Jessie Toews, Josh (Amanda) Toews, Carolina Huntsburger, Emerald Day Chief-Toews, Brianne Rarick, and Dustin Rarick; eleven great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grandchildren. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Wilhelm and Helena Toews; siblings Katerina, Ruth, George, Harry, and John C.; along with sons Gary Toews and Lyle Toews.
Ed lived a long and fulfilling life, defined by his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, love of family, and appreciation for the western way of life. He took pride in his work and valued the many friendships he made along the way.
Anyone who knew Ed knew he always had a story to tell. His stories, sense of humor, and warm personality brought joy to family and friends, and there was rarely a quiet moment when he was around.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff and caregivers who provided Ed with compassionate care and support.
At Ed’s request, there is no formal service planned. A private family graveside service will be held.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

 

 

DAY RIDER,

Franchesca DAY RIDER

Franchesca Lauren Day Rider, passed away on July 20, 2026 in Lethbridge, Alberta at the age of 29 years.
The Wake service will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 7:00-11:00 pm at New Life Fellowship Church, Little Chicago, Blood Reserve and then to the house all night. The Funeral service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Interment to follow at Pioneer Cemetery, Blood Reserve.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

 

 

STEWART,

Elaine STEWART

ELAINE MARIE STEWART passed away peacefully at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at the age of 68 years.
She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Sean; her brothers, Wayne (Pam) and Jim; her nieces and nephews, Alison, Geoff (Shauna), Amanda, Andrea, and Sarah; as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Blanche Stewart, and her brother, Raymond.
Elaine was born on February 11, 1958, in Lethbridge, Alberta, to Forrest “Frank” and Blanche Stewart.
Elaine shared a particularly special bond with her great-nephew, Brendan, who spent countless hours visiting and checking in on her. His unwavering devotion brought Elaine great comfort, companionship, and joy.
Elaine loved her family deeply and treasured every opportunity to gather with them. Her infectious laugh filled countless moments around the family dinner table, enjoying her mother’s wonderful home cooking – whether it was her famous City Chicken at Christmas or Creamed Peas and Potatoes to celebrate the beginning of the summer gardening season. These gatherings were about much more than the meals themselves; they were opportunities to share love, laughter, and the simple joy of being together, something Elaine cherished above all else.
Elaine’s love of the color purple and butterflies reflected her gentle spirit and the love she held for her family. The greatest lesson she leaves behind is the importance of kindness and showing love and compassion to one another.
Elaine will be lovingly remembered by her extended family and many dear friends, all of whom will miss her deeply.
In keeping with Elaine’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Her family will celebrate her life at a private gathering.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Those wishing to honour Elaine’s memory may make a donation to the Lethbridge Interfaith Food Bank.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

 

 

KORVER,

Willem “Bill” KORVER

WILLEM “BILL” KORVER, of Lethbridge, AB, beloved husband of Hilda Korver, passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the age of 83 years.
He is survived by his children: Wally (Kelly) Korver, Tracy (Ken) Leenstra, Amy (Jon) Korver, and niece, Gloria Maheaux; his grandchildren: Ethan Leenstra, Mykalah (Tyler) James, Seth Leenstra, Olivia Leenstra, Jasper Korver-Medori, Samantha Manning, Melissa Currie, Brady Parkvold, Joel Parkvold, and Allie Leavitt; and three great grandchildren.
He is also survived by his brother Arie (Bev) Korver and sisters-in-law Ann Korver, Henie Korver, many nieces and nephews, and the deJager family. He was predeceased by his parents Nicholas and Grace Korver, brothers Cor Korver, Nick Korver, and Casey and Winnie Korver, sister Grace and Morris Maheux, and nephews Paul Korver and Grant Maheux.
Dad was born on November 20, 1942 in Utretch, Holland. As a small boy, he immigrated with his family to Southern Alberta. On August 26, 1966, he married Hilda deJager. They were blessed with three children, Wally, Tracy, Amy and niece Gloria. They raised their family in Coaldale and resided in Lethbridge for the past several years. Dad spent most of his career as a truck driver, hauling milk, sugar beets and potatoes.
Dad was a faithful member of the Christian Reformed Church. He loved working in the garden, doing puzzles, watching sports (especially curling) and taking long drives along the backroads of Southern Alberta. One of his greatest joys was attending as many of his children’s and grandchildren’s extracurricular activities as possible. Dad struggled with COPD for many years, although his family will miss and remember him, they have comfort in knowing that his struggle has come to an end.
A Private Family Service will be held on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 1:30 P.M. with Pastor Josh Sweetman officiating. For those who wish to watch, the Funeral Service will be live-streamed through Bill’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

 

 

STOLK, Jenny

Jenny Stolk 1935 – 2026
Jenny Stolk, adored wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away in Taber on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the age of 90 years.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Ed (Terry) Stolk of Taber, Jim (Wendy) Stolk of Taber, Judy (Ron) Stolk-Ingram of Lethbridge and Diane (Blair) Rombough of Taber. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, great grandchildren, large extended family and many dear friends.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Harry in 1997 and her beloved son Rob in 2026.
Jenny will be remembered as the glue that kept her family bonded together, as well as keeping the extended Stolk and Visser families connected. Next to her faith, family was the most important facet in Jenny’s life and became her lifeline after Harry passed away so unexpectedly. Jenny generously dedicated countless hours to strengthening the family bonds with an open door, welcoming hugs, faithful birthday and anniversary calls and everyday phone calls just to check in. She believed in the great power of quality family time and insisted on hosting monthly birthday potlucks and holiday celebrations. She eagerly anticipated the annual Visser family reunions and made a point of seeking out every single person in attendance for a quick chat and a hug. Jenny more than earned the unofficial title of “favorite auntie”.
Many of her family spent numerous hours with her on her patio, enjoying a “slokie” or a beer and waving at the many golfers who greeted her as they played the first hole.
Jenny was a dedicated, long term volunteer who contributed her time and energy to residents at the Taber Hospital Extended Care and Linden View. The many hours spent there gave her so much genuine joy. Jenny had a true gift of being able to make people feel included and special.
Always a farmer’s wife, Jenny took a keen interest in all aspects of the happenings on the farm. She religiously monitored the weather and expected daily progress updates during harvest.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, July 26, 2026 between 3:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M.
A private burial service will be held at the Taber Memorial Garden prior to the funeral service on Monday, July 27, 2026.
The Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 3902 Heritage Drive, Taber on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Those who are unable to attend and wish to view the service online may do so by visiting Jenny’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 10:45 A.M. on Monday, July 27, 2026. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 11:00 A.M.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Jenny’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (www.tdhf.ca).
Jenny’s family would like to thank Dr. Davis Yawney for the genuine care and compassion that he showed to Jenny and the support he provided to her family over the past five years. During her four years at Linden View, Jenny’s family had the great fortune to interact with some phenomenal health care aides and licensed practical nurses. They’ll be forever grateful to those professionals who provided such respectful and sincere loving care to their mother. Most importantly, the family would like to acknowledge the genuine love and compassion that Shantel poured into her grandmother every day. Shantel was Jenny’s person. They shared a beautifully strong and loving bond. Intuitively and professionally, Shantel was able to help identify Jenny’s changing needs which greatly supported her family to actively advocate on Jenny’s behalf.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

 

KAMBEITZ, Travis

TRAVIS KAMBEITZ 1988 ~ 2026

Travis Kambeitz of Coalhurst, beloved son to Steve and Ann Kambeitz and brother to Amie Rook, tragically passed away in a farming accident on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at the age of 38 years.
A Come and go celebration of Travis’ Life will be held between 2:00pm and 5:00pm on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at LOWER SOUTH END OF THE GRANDSTAND AT THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN TURF CLUB, 3401 Parkside Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

 

 

SINCLAIR, John

JOHN THOMAS SINCLAIR 1945 ~ 2026

John Thomas Sinclair, a lifelong resident of Lethbridge, passed away in the hospital on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the age of 81. Born and raised on the Northside to Ed and May Sinclair, John was a true community fixture who made a friend out of almost everyone he met.
John’s legendary love affair with automobiles began at the astonishing age of 12 when he acquired his very first car. His teenage years on the Northside were filled with laughter, good friends, and the roar of engines. John possessed a rare, brilliant talent for restoration; he could take a rusted piece of junk and meticulously transform it into a unique, functioning, moving vehicle. His search for old cars and rare parts took him on countless road trips across Alberta and Saskatchewan, fueled by a passion that lasted a lifetime.
John was a highly skilled tradesman who took great pride in his work. He began his career as an electrician. Demonstrating his lifelong drive to learn and improve, he returned to SAIT at the age of 46 to earn his instrumentation ticket. His career took him to various project sites across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Northern Canada, where he was highly respected by his peers.
In his earlier years, John enjoyed making wine in his “man cave” and going camping with his wife, Olga. As time passed, camping trips transitioned into traveling to car shows, and most recently, the pair deeply cherished their Saturday date nights exploring different local restaurants.
John was known for his quick, wry sense of humor, and laughter was guaranteed whenever he was in the room. In his later years, John reconnected with God. This renewed faith brought him a deep, profound sense of peace, and he comforted those around him with the absolute certainty that he would be with God when he left this earth. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
John is survived by his loving wife, Olga. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews, Brent, Dwight, Wayne, and Daniel, and their families; his brothers-in-law, John and Mike; and his sister-in-law, Marian, along with their families. He was predeceased by his parents, Ed and May Sinclair, and his sister Joyce.
A Memorial Mass will be held at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH (604 – 13th Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta) on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with Father Santiago Torres celebrating.
In lieu of flowers and in memory of John, donations may be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, 960 – 19th Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 1W5.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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