OBITUARIES

On Thursday, February 18, 1999, Olive Annette Dionne, late of Radville, passed away at the age of 90 years. Predeceased by her husband, Victor Dionne; one daughter, Beatrice; one granddaughter, Lisa; her parents, Xavier and Valentine LaBelle; three brothers: August, Oscar and Genest; five sisters: Beatrice LaBelle, Lucie Eidsness, Doris Mowrey, Gilberta Howse and Lucille Charbonneau. Olive leaves to mourn her children: Oliver (Judy) of Radville, and grandson Kirby; Dennie (Sylvia) of Calgary, AB and grandchildren: Janis, Jason (Laureen) and great granddaughter, Kaelyn; Gerald (Annette) of Weyburn and grandchildren: Duane (Tammy) and great grandchildren: Bailey, Chandler and Danica; James (Carolyn) and great grandchildren: Jana and Aaron; Elise (Rex) Selby and great grandchildren: Rylan, Brett and Celine; and grandson Tim; Connie (Hugh) Kimball of Weyburn and grandchildren: Dean, Melissa (Shane Krauss) Kimball and great granddaughter, Haley; one brother, Wilfred (Juliette) LaBelle of Radville; two sisters: Mayo Van de Velde of Radville and Cleo LaBelle of Vancouver, BC; two brothers-in-law: Emery Charbonneau of Winnipeg, MB and Al Dionne of Weyburn; and many dear relatives and friends. Olive LaBelle was born in the family farm house on the shares of Lac Nominingue near the town of L'Annonciation, P.Q. on June 2, 1908. She was blessed with adventure early in life. When she was only three years old she boarded a train along with her mother and siblings and some family friends. Three days later she would reunite with her father in Weyburn. He had left the previous year to claim a homestead in the Roundup district near Ceylon. This is where she would spend her youth. Olive was an active girl. She preferred the outdoors and would sooner milk cows with her mother than do dishes with her sisters. She was called the equestrian of the family. She liked doing stunts on horseback. Her first income was herding cattle on horseback. When she was eight years old she started to accompany her mother, who was a community caregiver, to neighbours in need. She would watch her mother tend to a wound or deliver a baby. Often, after her mother returned home, Olive would stay to help the new mother with house chores and care for the baby. Soon she would participate in her true loves of music and dance. As a teenager she played music for country school dances with her brothers. She sang and played the guitar or harmonica. She had a beautiful voice and sang great harmony. Later occasionally her love for music and dancing would cause her and her friends to borrow a railroad push car. In no time they would be down the tracks to a neighboring town hall dance. After her schooling in Ceylon and Radville, Olive worked for many families as a housekeeper. She was in popular demand. She was an excellent cook and was known for her baking abilities: bread, pies, pastries and especially angel food cakes. She kept a very clean house, was particular and took pride in doing things well. In the early 1930's Olive met the man of her dreams. He was a good match for her. Together they were known to be head strong, determined and generous. He was a man who would share her love for good times and family. On June 7, 1934 she eloped with Victor Dionne and they were secretly married in Plentywood, Montana. Later in 1935 they exchanged Catholic vows in a small ceremony in Radville. They became farmers and raised their family in the communities of Radville, Neptune and Colgate. Together Olive and Vic became well loved and respected. They were gifted with many friends through the years. Special memories are winter evening sleigh rides to the neigbors. When company would come to visit, Olive would bestow upon them her gifts of delicious meals and grand deserts. A special time was New Year's Eve when it was a tradition for family to come for tortiere (pork pie). After the death of her husband, Victor, in 1971, Olive moved off the farm and retired in the town of Radville. There she became a member of Holy Family Parish, Catholic Women's League, and the Royal Purple. She enjoyed retirement and took trips to the Maritimes and Europe. She particularly enjoyed making quilts with the ladies of the Souris Valley Quilting Club. On October 3, 1991, Olive moved as a resident of the Marian Home in Radville where she received excellent care. Olive will be remembered for her love of nature. She especially enjoyed winter walks, thunderstorms and had no fear of lightning. She was a woman who upheld strong moral values. She could be quick to anger and was just as quick to forgive. She was occasionally the family mediator. She made her decisions and never looked back. She was positive through adversity. Her faith in God was strong. She was a reverant child of God but possessed the ability to pray on a personal level. She was always young. She was a woman who considered life as an adventure, and thanked God for her life in such an exciting time in history. She embraced the excitement of change and challenged difficult times. Her new life through death will only be another new adventure. She will be truly missed by all. Prayers were said Friday, February 19 at 7:30 p.m. from Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Radville. The funeral mass was held Saturday, February 20 at 2:00 p.m. from Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Radville, with Father John Mock Celebrant. Interment followed in Laurier Cemetery, Radville. Pallbearers were her grandchildren: Melissa Kimball, Tim Dionne, Duane Dionne, Elise Selby, James Dionne, Kirby Dionne, Jason Dionne, Dean Kimball and Janis Dionne. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Radville Marian Health Centre, Radville, would be appreciated by the family. Arrangmentments were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.

On Friday, February 12, 1999, Eva May Blackwell, formerly of Weyburn, passed away at Regina Pioneer Village, eight days short of her 90th birthday. Eva was born at Heward, SK, February 20, 1909. Predeceased by her parents, John and Sarah Blackwell, brothers: Roy, Earle, Arthur, Walter, Garfield, and Leslie and sister Tillie (Joseph) Slater. She is survived by sister-in-law, Doris (Garfield) Blackwell, and 15 nieces and nephews. Eva was raised in the Weyburn district and after the death of her parents, she remained on the farm in Grassdale to keep house for her brothers, Earle and Leslie. She was noted for her sunny smile and sense of humor as well as her reputation for cookies, cakes and pies that the nieces and nephews really looked forward to. She loved to dance and play cards. She was a member of the Yeoman's Sewing Circle. In 1974 she and Leslie retired to Regina. When Leslie passed away in 1986, Eva moved to a care home where she remained until her passing. Funeral service was held Wednesday, February 17 at 2:00 p.m. from Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home, Weyburn, with Rev. Julie Collings officiating. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. All those in attendance were considered to be honorary pallbearers. The active pallbearers were: Donald Blackwell, Larry Temple, Terry Guest, Dean Guest, Larry Phillips and Neil Jensen. Those wishing to donate to Eva's memory may make a contribution to the charity of your choice. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home inc., Weyburn.

It is with great sorrow that we, the family of Ruth Berna Coghill, 87, announce her passing on February 11, 1999 one day prior to her 88th year. Predeceased by her parents, T.T. and Mae Clarke and her only brother Eric Lindsey Clarke. Ruth is survived by her loving children: one daughter Loretta Craib of Saskatoon; two sons: Ron (Eunice) Coghill of Weyburn, and Dave (Connie) Coghill of Grassy Lake, AB. She will be sadly missed and always remembered by her 13 grandchildren and her seven great grandchildren. She also leaves to mourn her nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law and friends. Ruth was born in Otthon, SK and attended school in Otthon, Vancouver and Birtle, MB after which period of time she became employed at Sask. Co-op Creamery in Yorkton until her retirement. She left Yorkton to live in Weyburn to be closer to her children and grandchildren. Ruth was a great hockey fan and also enjoyed crocheting and reading. Funeral service was held Wednesday, February 17, 2:00 p.m. from Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, with Rev. John Ferrier officiating. Interment followed in Hillcrest cemetery, Weyburn. Pallbearers were Brian Pohle, Archie Lovelace, Lars Guenther, David Gaudour, Duane Coghill and Corey Abel. For friends so wishing, donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice, in her memory. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

On Monday, February 8, 1999 Adeline Elfrieda Arndt, late of Yellow Grass passed away at the age of 83 years. Predeceased by her parents, Adolph and Augusta Arndt; and one sister, Elsie Thomason. She leaves to mourn two brothers: William (Cathereen) Arndt of Pearson, MB and Edward Arndt of Yellow Grass; one sister, Lily Hockley of Weyburn; two nieces in Mobile, Alabama and West Palm Beach, Florida; as well as many other nieces and nephews in Canada. Adeline was born in the Colfax district, third child to Adolph and Augusta nee Buchholz. Her early education came from the country schools of Sunny Dale, High Hill and Dawn View, SD. By funds saved through domestic work she was able to finish high school at the Regina Luther College. Her first love was a career in nursing but the road seemed too long and hard so her second choice was to take a secretarial course at Paragon Business School in Regina. Like the rest of the family, Adeline loved music, playing piano and singing together in harmony. She was a life-long learner, and loved to read. During the war years, Adeline worked as secretary for the air force division in Ottawa, and the American consulate in Washington, DC. After the war she worked in the film industry in Toronto, before returning to Sask. to work in the Weyburn Mental Hospital. Adeline closed out her career with positions in Regina, first with the P.F.R.A. and then with Immigration Canada until retirement. Her effectiveness, versatility, and efficiency enabled her to follow many opportunities throughout her career. Adeline settled back in Lang for her retirement, where she served as secretary for the Ladies Aid in the church of her baptism and confirmation. She contributed her musical talents as well, which showed in her ability to sing alto to any song, and to play the Hawaiian guitar, violin, piano and organ by ear or with notes. She travelled widely, going to visit the war zones of Europe, taking a cruise through the Panama Canal, and seeing most of the U.S.A. Her favorite place was Alaska. Adeline will be missed for her artistic talent in cake decorating, baking and decorating cakes for many a bride, birthday or anniversary. Taking a course in decorating at Minneapolis, Minn., she taught the art of decorating for the S.E. Community College in and around Weyburn. Adeline will be remembered as a person of strong will and clear mind, who loved people and showed kindness, compassion, charity and hospitality to all. Funeral service was held Friday, February 12 at 1:30 p.m. from St. John Lutheran Church, Lang, SK with Pastor Ron Bestvater officiating. Interment followed in Lang cemetery. All those in attendance were considered to be honorary pallbearers. The active pallbearers were Edward R. Arndt, Bob Khan, Jeff Khan, Edward Arndt, Robert Arndt and Ross Hockley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice, in her memory. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.

On Friday, February 12, 1999, Beatrice (Bea) Elizabeth Bell passed away at the age of 71 years. Bea was predeceased by her parents, Jack and Katie Bell; and by her two brothers: Archie Bell in 1991 and Donald Bell in 1991. Bea is survived by one brother, Norman Bell of Weyburn; two sisters: Mary Broten of Weyburn, and Anna Mae Bell of Weyburn; also a sister-in-law, Ada Bell of Weyburn; and several nieces and nephews. Bea is also survived by eternal friends, the Kan Lee family of Calgary, AB; Vicki Bayrack of Winnipeg, MB; Beatrice MacLean of Weyburn; Dorothy Wilkinson of Goodwater; Mary Wilson of Cremona, AB; and Viola Dionne of Prince George, BC. Bea was born January 4, 1928 in Weyburn. She took all her schooling at South Weyburn School. Bea's first job was at Snelgroves Bakery. Then she got a job as postal clerk at the Weyburn post office where she worked for over 30 years. Those were happy years; she enjoyed her work and visiting with the people. After retirement, Bea enjoyed sewing and liked to bake and give to friends. Bea was always a great cat lover and many strays came to her door. A memorial service was held Tuesday, February 16, at 2:00 p.m. from Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, with Rev. John Ferrier officiating. Interment will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, for friends so wishing, donations may be made to the Weyburn General Hospital Equipment Fund, in her memory. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

Julles H. "Joe" Hemeryck

On Monday, February 15, 1999, Julles H. "Joe" Hemeryck, late of Weyburn, passed away at the age of 75 years. Predeceased by his parents, Bill and Zoe Hemeryck; and one sister-in-law, Georgette. Joe leaves to mourn two brothers: Tonie Hemeryck and Albert (Ida) Hemeryck; nieces and nephews: Dennis (Pat) Hemeryck, Lorna (John) Grismek, Brenda (Ron) VanMackelbergh, Deanne (Vern) Percival, Rose (Ed) VanMackelbergh, Brian Hemeryck; as well as the Benning family and many close friends. Joe Hemeryck was born at his family home in Deloraine, MB. He received his schooling at Brock School. During the war, Joe joined the RCAF and served in England as a rear gunner and a mechanic. Upon discharge from the RCAF, Joe worked at farming, in a service station, C.P. railway and in the early 50s began working in the oilfield. He lived in Deloraine, Virden, Didsbury, Estevan, Midale and in 1958 moved to Weyburn. In 1956 he joined Canadian Superior Oil Co. and in 1964 he started with PanCanadian where he was employed until his retirement in 1988. Joe was a past executive member of the Weyburn Red Wings, Weyburn Elks Club, Weyburn Legion, South Weyburn Community Centre, and St. Vincent de Paul Parish Church where he served as an usher. He enjoyed gardening, cooking, fishing, attending hockey games and hosting teams and parents, camping and visiting. Prayers were said Wednesday, February 17 at 7:00 p.m. from Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home with Mary Ann Seitz presiding. The funeral mass was held Thursday, February 18 at 1:30 p.m. from St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church, Weyburn, with Father John Mock celebrant. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. Honorary pallbearers were Harvey and Gae Gall, Norman and Karen Jordon, Jim and Marian Brown, Jerry and Orlanda Mainil, Gwen Hopkins, Johnny and Fay Johnston. The active pallbearers were Raymond Cugnet, Terry Benning, Sterling Hobbs, Cliff Anderson, Gordon Benning and Jack Hobbs. Those wishing to express their sympathy may donate to the South Central Health District, Weyburn General Hospital Equipment Fund or the Canadian Cancer Society, in his memory. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.

Alicia Crane (nee Thompson) passed away peacefully in her farm home the evening of February 12, 1999. She was the daughter of George and Margaret Thompson (nee McClement) who farmed five miles south and five miles west of Lampman. She and her only sister, Harriett Jean, attended the Mooney School, only half mile from their farm home. Getting a good education was of prime importance to her parents and Alicia graduated from the Estevan Collegiate at age 16 and from Moose Jaw Normal School at 17. Alicia's first teaching position was for two years at Fern School north of Gainsborough. She taught at Grand Bend School, five miles southeast of Weyburn for five and a half years, South Weyburn School for three years, and at Colfax and Inglewood School, north of Qu'Appelle, for several months. She married George C. Crane November 2, 1940 and they were married for 58 years. Their farm is five miles south and one mile west of Weyburn - "Crane's Corner." They raised four daughters, Karren, Darlene, Kelly and Cheryl, and were blessed with six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. For all of her life Alicia loved learning and was an avid reader of magazines and newspapers. She was greatly interested in the political scene of the province, the country, and the world. She enjoyed radio and television news and broadcasts and could carry on a lively and knowledgeable conversation on a wide range of topics. First and always was Alicia's love of home and family. She loved the outdoors. Caring for farm animals or driving the grain truck in the field was more interesting to her than household chores. She transferred her love of horses to her daughters and they became central to our farm life. Animals were special to her. Even in her last months she had the deer and birds to watch and bring her joy. Alicia had a special interest in the South Weyburn community and their various activities. She was one of the people most determined to keep the S.W. schoolhouse as a community centre when so many others were being torn down or moved. Community people will remember going to Alicia's following the school dances on New Year's Eve and feasting on turkey and all the trimmings. It was and still is a special community. It was wonderful to see them all turnout to bid her farewell on February 16.

On Sunday, February 14, 1999 Hazel Jane Straker (Fee) late of Weyburn, went home to be with her Lord at the age of 87 years. She was predeceased by her parents Walter and Mary Fee, brother Art, half sister Mary and four half brothers Edward, Hubert, William and Robert. Hazel will be greatly missed by her loving children: Walter (Shirley), Bernard (Carole), Bernice Johnson (Al), Kathy Harvey (Bud) and Darlene McKeage (Wayne), her 20 grandchildren and their spouses, 36 great grandchildren, sisters-in-law Ruth Fee and Elsie Paulsen, many nieces, nephews and friends. Hazel was born on the farm in the Touchwood District near Wishart, SK on April 19, 1911. She was raised by Jack and Maggie Spafford as her mother passed away when Hazel was eight days old. Hazel became a Christian at the age of 21, being baptized into her Lord. Hazel married Norman Straker January 25, 1933. They moved to the Straker homestead and lived there until the summer of 1954 when they moved to Punnichy, SK. In 1959 they moved to Weyburn where Hazel was employed at Western Christian College for 18 years. Hazel was very involved in community functions, community fairs, 4-H homecraft clubs and the Horticulture Society. Hazel had many hobbies. She quilted, grew gorgeous flower and vegetable gardens, bird watched, pressed flowers, collected poetry, taught Sunday School, corrected Bible correspondence and did volunteer work. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Weyburn Special Care Home and the doctors and staff at Weyburn General Hospital for all their compassionate and loving care of Hazel. Funeral services were held Thursday, February 18 at 10 a.m. at the Weyburn Church of Christ and at 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, R.C. Church, Wishart. Interment followed at the Stone Church Cemetery, Wishart. Following both services a lunch was served in the churches. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western Christian College, Box 5000, Dauphin, Manitoba R7N 2V5. Arrangements were entrusted to Paragon Funeral Services, Weyburn and Regina.

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