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.
Marty Simmonds 1962 - 2025
With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Martha Jane Simmonds (Marty) of Medicine Hat, on January 28, 2025, at the age of 62 years. Marty is survived by her loving and devoted husband Corey, her four kids Hayley (Dan), Sam, Lindsay and Landon, and her two granddaughters Ruby and Isla, whom she so loved. She is also survived by her sister, Judy and her nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews. Marty was born in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba on November 26, 1962, to Phyllis and Jack McCulloch. The youngest of three, she is predeceased by her brother Ron. Though she grew up in Manitoba, she spent many summers with her niece and nephew in Edmonton. Marty moved to Medicine Hat in 1991, where she put down roots to raise her family. She met Corey in November 2003 and her true love fairy tale began. They have spent the last 22 years seeing four kids into adulthood, traveling the world and becoming Grandparents. They did life together, in every aspect. Marty loved to read and always read multiple books a week. She loved her ladies leagues of bowling and golf, traveling with Corey and music - having seen Keith Urban live, far too many times. She was endlessly proud of her kids and loved being Nannie to the girls. We will miss her fiercely. Family and friends are invited to a come and go reception that will be held at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Cremation has been entrusted to the Pattison Funeral Home. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Brenda Hittel 1954 - 2025
Brenda Elizabeth Hittel of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late Melvin Hittel, passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the age of 70 years. She leaves to cherish her memory two children Melanie (Kelly) Robb of Olds and Stacy Hittel of Medicine Hat; four grandchildren Brennan Robb, Meagan Robb, Kinley Hittel and Jase Hittel; her mother Verna Bischoff, two brothers Les (Bev) Bischoff and Murray (Connie) Bischoff; two sisters Wanda Munro and Blanche (Lorry) Bakke as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Besides her husband Melvin, Brenda was predeceased by her father Jacob Bischoff. Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Wednesday February 5th at 7:00 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated in Holy Family Parish (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Roque Pereira celebrant. The prayer service and funeral mass will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Brenda’s obituary page on our website, for the links. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
DONALD "DON" KEITH MITCHELL Oct 27, 1949 - Jan 16, 2025 (Age 75)
It is with great sadness, the family of Don Mitchell announce his passing on January 16, 2025, at the age of 75 years. Don was born on October 27, 1949, in Indian Head, SK, to John and Bernice Mitchell. He attended Riverside School until Grade 7 and graduated from Crescent Heights High School. From a young age, he exhibited a passion for sports that would define much of his life. Education and staying active were important to Don, which led him to become a Physical Education teacher. Don coached the Kwahommie’s basketball team at Medicine Hat High School where he took pride in mentoring young athletes. Don was a lifeguard and an accomplished swimmer, winning many City and Provincial titles with the Butterfly Stroke. He enjoyed playing golf, tennis and track and field. Left to cherish Don’s memory are his siblings, Robert (Heidi) Mitchell, Fred Mitchell, Debra (Bob) Myroniuk and Shirley Richards; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his parents, John and Bernice Mitchell; and siblings, Lawrence Mitchell, Constance Tooman, and Marjorie Mitchell. A Celebration of Life Come & Go will be held on February 8th, 2025 from 2:00pm-5:00pm at the Fireside Room located in the Cypress Center. Condolences may be forwarded to www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are by
FLORENCE BUZIAK
With profound sadness the family of Florence Buziak, of Medicine Hat, Alberta announces her passing on December 30th, 2024, at the age of 94. The feistiest 94 - year - old you'll ever meet was born on August 31st, 1930, near the beginning of the Great Depression to Aubrey and Ida May Crouch, on a farm outside of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan. Mom often spoke about how difficult their family life was when she was young. There was very little money, so she learned at an early age how to grow vegetables, cook, bake, can and stretch a meal as well as how to sew, knit, crochet and do needlework. As one of the oldest daughters, she generally helped her mother to look after her numerous siblings. In her older teens, Mom left the farm and went to work as a waitress in North Battleford, where she first set eyes on her red-headed soon-to-be husband John Buziak. They married and moved together to Medicine Hat, Alberta where John continued to work construction jobs as a machine operator, building many of the irrigation reservoirs and canals in Southern Alberta until 1962, when mom convinced him to get a job with better hours and he went to work for Canada Post. Together Mom and Dad had six children; Ray (Marie Johnson), Roger (Pat Lanctot), Beatrice (Dave Ching), Vera, Valerie (Harry Hensel), and Carla. From their union also came 13 grandchildren, and step-grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren and step grand-children. Mom's brood of children, grands, and great-grands were her pride and joy and she loved seeing them, cooking for them, and plastering her walls with their photos. Mom's boundless energy and refusal to succumb to the usual slowing down normally inherent in the aging process led to her beating cancer - twice - and outliving many, many family members. Mom was fortunate in her later years to find a special friend in Sheryl Tyl. Mom loved her like a daughter and we are very grateful for her help. She was predeceased by her parents, six brothers (Harold, Eugene, Doug, Stan, Ivan and Rod), three sisters (Eleanor, Darlene, and Eileen), and one grandchild (Robyn Buziak). Left to mourn her passing in addition to her family members already mentioned are her sisters Barbara and Glenna, numerous nieces and nephews, and many family friends. Mom's tenacity (try saying no to her when she was trying to get a sick child in to see the doctor), strong work ethic (first load of laundry on the clothesline by 6:45 AM), and skills as head cook and hostess for so many family gatherings have left a lasting mark on all of us and taught us some important lessons about persisting through difficulties and looking for the joy in life. A Celebration of Mom's Life will follow this spring. Donations in her name to Women's Breast Cancer, Ronald McDonald House Children's Charities, or Dementia Research Initiatives are welcomed.
Frank Guckert 1933 - 2025
Frank Kasper Guckert of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Eleanor Guckert, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the age of 91 years. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Friday, February 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the prayer service to follow at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will also take place one hour prior to the funeral mass which will be celebrated at HOLY FAMILY PARISH (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Roque Pereira Celebrant. Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
ELLA MANLEY Feb 22, 1929 - Jan 27, 2025 (Age 95)
Surrounded by the love of her family, Ella Manley was gently called to her eternal home at the age of 95 on Monday, January 27th, 2025, in Medicine Hat, AB. Born in Three Hills, AB, to her loving parents Christian and Louise Flemmer, Ella was the oldest of seven children. She spoke fondly of her childhood, recalling the abundant love that filled their home. These early years laid a beautiful foundation for the rest of her life, one built on love, kindness, and a deep sense of connection to those around her. The connection between Ella and her brothers and sisters was lifelong and unbreakable—she treasured these relationships deeply and carried them with her every day. Throughout her life, her siblings were a constant source of love and support, and Ella’s heart was always full when surrounded by them. Ella's capacity for love only grew as she began her own family. She was blessed with four wonderful children—Doug (Virginia) Doell, Dale Doell, Kendra-Lou Bluekens (Robert McIntosh), and Sandy (Ken) Nielson. Ella's greatest pride and joy was her family. She not only told them how much she loved them but showed it in everything she did. Ella was the heart of her family, cherishing her nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren with a love that knew no bounds. Later in life, Ella met her "sweetie," Walter Manley, and they were blessed with 23 years of marriage. Together, they shared countless memories, including a magical trip to Disneyland to celebrate Ella’s 80th birthday. Their love and companionship brought even more joy and warmth into Ella's life, and she embraced Walter's family with open arms, forming deep, lasting bonds with them. Ella had an extraordinary gift for building relationships. Whether she was working at Canada Trust or later at South Country Village, she made genuine connections with everyone she met. Ella was known for her kind and nurturing spirit, always taking the time to listen and care for others. She was deeply grateful for every person in her life, cherishing each relationship as a special blessing. Throughout her journey, Ella’s life was centered on love - love for her family, for her community, and for her faith. She was devoted to her belief in Jesus Christ and held a deep, unwavering faith in God. Ella’s faith was a guiding light, and she shared that light with all who knew her. Her musical talents, particularly on the piano and xylophone, were another way she expressed her love, filling the air with songs of devotion and joy. Ella’s legacy is one of boundless love, gratitude, and faith. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit lives on in the love she so freely gave and the many lives she touched. A private family celebration of Ella’s life will be held in her honour. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
1953 - George “Alex” Phinney - 2025
It is with profound sadness that the family of Alex Phinney announce his sudden passing on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Alex, the youngest of four children, was born in Middleton, Nova Scotia, on October 14, 1953. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and his loss leaves a deep void in the lives of all who knew him. Alex is survived by his beloved daughter, Kari-Lynn (David); his close friend and the mother of his daughter, Sandi (Harvey); his two granddaughters, Avery and Emersyn; his brother, Vern; his sister, Carolyn (Lloyd), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary, and his brother, Roy. Throughout his life, Alex was known for his dedication and hard work. Many will remember him as the “tbar guy” – the go-to person for suspended ceilings in the city of Medicine Hat. He took great pride in his work, forming lasting connections with his clients and colleagues. Outside of his professional life, Alex was passionate about hockey, baseball, golf, and fishing. He had a natural ability to connect with others, always ready to strike up a conversation and share a laugh. His infectious energy and sense of humor made him a friend to everyone he met. Above all, Alex’s greatest pride was his family. His love for his daughter and granddaughters knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His legacy will live on in their hearts and in the countless memories he leaves behind. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived – one filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to those who mattered most. The Memorial Service will be held at Grandstand Banquet Room, Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede Grounds, 2055-21st Avenue SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, at 1:00 pm with Life Celebrant Lynett Getz 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 Alex’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 through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Alex Phinney.
PATRICIA ANNE HERRMANN (THACKER) July 10, 1936 - Jan 27, 2025
Mrs. Patricia Anne “Pat” Herrmann (nee Thacker) passed away on Monday, January 27th, 2025, at the age of 88 years. The Funeral Service was held at Temple Baptist Church, 606 - 7th Street SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4K8 on Saturday, February 1st, with Pastor Michael Diebert officiating. In lieu of flowers, Pat has requested donations be made in her memory to the Pinecrest Bible Camp, PO Box 23062, Medicine Hat Mall, Medicine Hat, AB T1B 4C7. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Patricia Herrmann. Funeral arrangements are entrusted
Rosemary Rissling 1945 - 2025
Rosemary Rissling passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the age of 79 years, beloved wife of Jerome Rissling of Medicine Hat. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
CAROL LYNN STEVENS 1953 - 2025 (Age 71)
Carol Lynn Stevens of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the age of 71 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Joelene Hauck, two grandchildren Lauryn Hauck and Waylon Hauck as well as one brother Marvin Witiuk. She was predeceased by her parents Sophie and William Witiuk. Cremation has been entrusted to the Pattison Funeral Home and Crematorium. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
Walter Bergstreser 1947 - 2025
Walter Bergstreser, beloved husband of Vivian Bergstreser of Medicine Hat, passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the age of 77 years. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Marg McCulley officiating. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
IRMA SPRINGER 1930 - 2025
Mrs. Irma Myrtle Springer, beloved wife of the late Walter Springer, passed away at River Ridge Seniors Village in Medicine Hat on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the age of 94 years. Left to cherish Irma’s memory are her daughters, Dona Hope and Leona Mulmquist along with their families. She was predeceased by her husband, Walter as well as by her daughter, Betty Ann Bert. Irma’s life will be honoured and her memory cherished without the proceedings of a formal funeral service. To leave a message of condolence, contact www.cooksouthland.com.
DAVID JAMES SYMINGTON Dec 8, 1956 – Jan 25, 2025
It is with profound sorrow and shock that we announce the passing of David James Symington at the age 68 years. David was predeceased by his wife Gail Ungstad, his parents George and Sylvia, and his brother Andrew. He is survived by his brothers: Bruce, Alex (Carol), Murray, Duncan and Craig; his mother in law Dorothy; his sisters-in-law Eileen (Dan) and Joan (Gerry); his brothers-in-law Peter (Christine) and Wayne; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Friday at 1:00 PM, February 7, 2025 at St Peter’s Ecumenical Church, 508 7 ST SE, Slave Lake followed by lunch in the Church Hall. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alberta Diabetes, Cancer fund or a charity of your choice.
SUSAN LORI (NEE BERG) ARTEMENKO 1964 - 2025
Susan, beloved partner of Darrell Fischer passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the age of 60 years old, with family by her side. Susan was born on July 30, 1964, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The family moved to Russell, Manitoba in 1967. Shortly after moving, her sister Lisa was born. Susan grew up on the family farm and attended school in Russell until 1978. During her time on the farm, Susan fell in love with horses. Her grandpa Birss bought her her first horse. She spent many hours riding horses with her sister, cousins and friends. She also loved her cat Tinker and her dog Goldie. Susan and her many friends from school made lots of fond memories together during her years in Russell. In 1978, Susan moved to Dauphin, Manitoba with her mom and sister. Here Susan attended the DRCSS. She made lots of new friends. Once again, Susan and her sister spent a lot of time riding their horses in and around the Riding Mountain National Park. Sometimes they invited others to join them and there was always a good story and many laughs afterwards. Susan also enjoyed downhill skiing with her parents, her sister, cousins and friends. She also liked family picnics, exploring old abandoned houses and taking her little sister on many unpredictable adventures. During this time, Susan worked at various jobs in Dauphin. She was a hostess, worked on farms and at the Birss Greenhouse. Susan graduated from Major Pratt High School. She met her husband Barry in Dauphin and they moved to Calder, Saskatchewan to farm. In 1986, her first daughter Echo was born in Saskatoon. The family then moved to Medicine Hat. Their second daughter Melissa was born followed by their son Levon. Susan loved being a mom and raising her children. She always did all kinds of enjoyable activities with them. During this time Susan acquired a little puppy named Snuggles who was her constant companion. When her children were in grade school, Susan met Darrell and his son Wayne. Darrell was Susan’s best friend and he was always there for her. In Susan’s later years, she loved writing and coming up with new ideas. Shopping was also a passion as she always had a flare for fashion. She loved crafting and was always creating Christmas ornaments with pictures. Her grandma Birss taught her how to quilt and together they made a number of beautiful patch quilts. Susan also loved music and enjoyed dancing. Susan was a wonderful person and a very special daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, auntie, partner and friend who will always be remembered with love. Susan was predeceased by her father Glen Berg. She will be lovingly remembered by her partner Darrell Fischer (Wayne and Jessica); her mother Thelma Berg; sister Lisa James (Wes, Riley and Cole); daughters, Echo Artemenko (Jesse) and Melissa Artemenko; her son Levon Artemenko (Katie); two grandchildren, Nevaeh Lily Anderson and Hudson William Artemenko as well as many other relatives and friends. A celebration of life will be held for Susan at a later date. Cremation has been entrusted to the Pattison Funeral Home and Crematorium. To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
