Douglas Wayne Becker of Weyburn passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2000 at the age of 50 years. Doug was predeceased by his father George Becker and father-in-law Frederick McGregor. Doug is survived by Marlene, his loving wife of 24 years, and Marcie, his cherished 14-year-old daughter of Weyburn; his mother, Althea Becker of Weyburn; his mother-in-law Rosie McGregor, of Estevan; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Doug was born May 12, 1949 in Weyburn where he lived most of his life. After completing high school at the Weyburn Collegiate Institute in 1968, Doug attended university in Regina where he obtained his B.Ed. (Social Studies) and B.A. (History) degrees in 1972. He taught at Viceroy where he also served as principal 1972-1975. On July 7, 1975 Doug married Marlene McGregor in Estevan and they made their home together in Weyburn. Doug assumed teaching and principal duties at Halbrite where he served 1975-1991 until Halbrite School was closed. He then started teaching high school at Midale Central School from 1991 until the present where he was still employed at the time of his passing. Doug and Marlene were married for 10 years before they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Marcie, an only child just like her parents. Marlene and Doug travelled extensively before Marcie's arrival and enjoyed numerous family vacations since. Doug was a dedicated and respected teacher who appreciated and enjoyed his job. He was always enthusiastic, happy and friendly. He was a sincere, down-to-earth person with a good sense of humor. He was a devoted husband, father and son with family being his top priority in life. Leisure time was filled with a variety of activities including spectator sports (especially hockey and football, cheering on the Weyburn Red Wings and the Sask. Roughriders), reading, collecting, listening to music, watching movies, playing Scrabble, visiting, and just enjoying his homelife. Over the years he had served in various capacities in the church and school organizations and he enjoyed coaching volleyball. Doug's life seemed short but full, and he will be sadly missed by the many people whose lives he has touched. A comforting funeral service celebrating Doug's life was held in the Weyburn Free Methodist Church on Tues., January 4 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Wade Fitzpatrick and Rev. Kevin Bishop officiating. Interment was at the Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels. A memorial scholarship in Doug Becker's name is being established for the students at Midale Central School.
To Doug Becker, With Love
Dear Doug,
It's just so easy to cry
And so hard to say good-bye,
But God must have needed you
And has something special for you to do.
Marcie and I will try to carry on
Now that you've so sadly passed on.
So Honey, we send you all our love
As you wait for us in Heaven above.
Thank you for a wonderful life,
You made me happy being your wife.
God keep you in His loving care
Until we come to meet you there.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed,
Written in pain and sealed with a kiss.
Your wife and best friend
From now until the end.
Love, Marlene
On Saturday, January 1, 2000, Gloria Gosselin, late of Midale, passed away at the age of 56 years. Gloria was born July 4, 1943 in Estevan to Norman and Agnes Rosengren. She lived in Estevan for a year after she was born and the next six months in East Coulee, AB before moving to the farm south of Midale. In her early years Gloria was quite a character. Howard recalls back-catching for Gloria while she practiced her pitching. According to Howard, Norman had to replace the garage windows on a regular basis. This explains why she was seldom upset when Garth practiced his pitching with the same results. Gloria met Gene when he worked on the farm for her dad, Norman. They were married July 15, 1961 at the Lutheran Church in Midale. Once married, they resided just down the lane from Norman and Agnes until 1971 when they moved to town. Gloria and Gene had four children: Garth, Glenda, Darrel and Barb. Once Gloria had raised four children she entered the work force. Her first job was as a salesclerk for Maurice's Red and White store. After this she became surrogate grandmother, where she was able to share her love for children. Then in 1985 she purchased the Midale Hardware where she worked until she was not able to due to her illness. While she owned the hardware it became the place for family and friends to stop for a cup of coffee and a visit. Between raising her family and working, Gloria managed to volunteer her time to anyone and any cause. Evidence of this commitment can be found in the many organizations she belonged to. She was a board member at the Midale Central School, executive member of the Midale rink and curling club, secretary for the Midale Mustangs for whom she also sold tickets for many years, and president of the Midale figure skating club. Her church involvement included being a member of the Ladies Auxiliary and the Altar Guild. Apart from her volunteer work, Gloria had many interests in her life. She loved to watch the Blue Jays play baseball and seldom missed a game. She liked to curl and watch curling on the television set. She was her family's greatest fan, whether they were playing hockey, fastball, slow pitch, volleyball or curling. She was so dedicated she would travel all over the province to watch them. Another interest of Gloria's was her house and yard. Anyone who has seen her backyard can attest to this fact. The greatest gift Gloria gave to her family and friends was her love. This love was displayed in numerous ways. It was displayed through her generosity, compassion, understanding, sense of duty, strength of character and sense of humor. Even when Gloria became too ill to remain in her home, her illimitable spirit shone through. Often when Gloria appeared not to be listening, the staff at Mainprize Manor was surprised when later Gloria would comment on things they had said or done. She would mention to family names of people who had stopped to visit. Even when she was confined to bed and seemed unresponsive, her eyes would light up when she saw her grandchildren and heard their voices. Whoever met Gloria had their lives touched by her spirit. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Funeral service was held Wednesday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m. from Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Midale, with Pastor Greg Anderson officiating, and Sheila Peterson, organist. Interment followed in Westphalia Cemetery, Midale. She was predeceased by her parents, Norman and Agnes Rosengren. Gloria leaves to mourn her loving husband, Gene Gosselin of 38 years; her children: Garth Gosselin (Rose Ng); Glenda Gosselin; Darrel (Cora) Gosselin; and Barbara (Greg) Happ; three grandchildren: Dexter Happ, Lacey Happ and Cody Gosselin; her brothers: Howard (Wendy) Rosengren and Graham (Norma) Rosengren; one sister-in-law, Sadie (Stan) Goodman; and many nieces and nephews. Active pallbearers were: Gary Ness, Ralph Molstad, George Connelly, Leonard Thompson, Colin Rosengren and Randy Hoium. The honorary pallbearers were: Linda Duffus, Pamela Pick, Becky McLellan, Cyndee Hoium, Marcia Snider, Joyce Carlson, Norma Ness, Karen Molstad, Mona Connelly and Edna Frank. Those wishing to express their sympathy may donate to the Canadian Diabetes Association or to the Mainprize Manor and Health Centre, Midale, in her memory. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.
Oliver Harold Dahl, late of Minton, passed away suddenly on his farm on December 16, 1999, at the age of 75 years. Oliver was born in Ceylon district on August 26, 1924. He was baptized into the family of God on September of the same year. While Oliver's formal education occurred at the Big Four School, he was learning all of the time, in the school of life. He began farming at an early age and resided on the family farm until his passing. Oliver was predeceased by his parents, Olaus and Olga Dahl; four brothers, Arthur, Ernest, Melvin and Einner Dahl; one sister, Violet Shaw; and one brother-in-law, Floyd Telenga. Oliver leaves to mourn his two brothers: Elvin Dahl of Gladmar and Roy Dahl of Minton; four sisters: Esther (Eric) Verity of Weyburn; Vera Telenga of Lethbridge, AB; Marie (Douglas) Wankel of Elbow; and Ruby (Murray) Weatherall of Moose Jaw; two sisters-in-law: Irene Dahl of Bethune and Cheryl Dahl of Gladmar; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many good friends. Like his father, Oliver became an ardent sports fan, especially in fastball. He excelled in his batting abilities, hitting many home runs during the several years of playing ball with his six brothers and Gladmar Braves teammates. While growing up on the farm, his favorite pastimes were sledding and skiing down the many hills surrounding the farm, hunting, trapping and horseback riding with brother Ernie, who was his constant companion. In later years he was interested in horse racing. His love for animals continued through the years. He especially loved going to rodeos along with his good friend Charlie Tatarliov. He was also a frequent visitor at the Weyburn Livestock Exchange. Oliver enjoyed every aspect of farming, but he especially loved his cattle, which were his pride and joy. We always considered Oliver and his farm to be a family anchor where we could meet for special celebrations and reunions. He was always happy to have family and friends come. Everyone enjoyed his great sense of humour - he loved to tease, tell funny jokes and play little pranks on others. Oliver's compassion and generosity toward others was greatly appreciated. He was always ready to help family members, relatives, friends and neighbours in any way he could. His unique personality, strength of character, generosity and a real love for being with people made Oliver the special person he was. Funeral service was held on Monday, December 20 at 2:00 p.m. from the Elks Hall in Minton, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Special music was provided by Valerie (Wankel) Koshinsky, Denise (Wankel) Sielskis and Bryan Cornish with Marnell (Verity) Cornish as pianist. Interment followed in Chapel Grove Cemetery, Minton. The honorary pallbearers were all of Oliver's friends and relatives attending the funeral. The active pallbearers were: Allan Dinwoodie, Bill Tatarliov, Ken Tatarliov, Jim Blackmore, Derold Blackmore and Ken Hansen. We, his family, appreciate special people like Lucille and Toni Hintz, Eileen and Henry Sorenson, Brenda and Jim Blackmore and all of the friends, relatives and neighbours for the baking, visits and birthday celebrations in support of Oliver throughout the years. As we mourn the passing of our dear brother and uncle, our thoughts and memories of him become even more precious. We would like to dedicate this poem in memory of Oliver, which describes quite vividly his personality, style of life and character as he lived among us:
His life began upon a farm
Where every season held a charm,
Snow and blizzards, winter chills,
Card games, skiing on the hills.
Potatoes, sausage, turkey, steak,
Creamed peas and birthday cake.
Raising cattle, horses, hogs,
Pigs and chickens, cats and dogs.
Baling hay out in the sun,
Ball games when the chores were done.
Trucking grain and hauling hay,
Now and then some tricks he'd play.
Sense of humour, quick to please,
These are precious memories.
Remembrance is a word so dear,
More precious with each passing year.
Family gatherings, picnics too,
School reunions, friendships true.
Raising cattle, such a thrill,
Pigs to feed and troughs to fill.
Pots of coffee - lots to eat,
Smell of bacon - such a treat.
A welcome smile for all who came,
Norwegian whist - a favorite game.
Passing time will not erase
These memories of a loved one's face.
How quickly all the years go by,
But precious memories never die.
Those wishing to express their sympathy may donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Sask. or to a charity of their choice. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.
Henry John Vargo, 79 years, passed away at Moosomin Union Hospital on January 2, 2000, with sons and daughters at his side. Henry was predeceased by his wife, Florine in 1973 and his parents, George (1977), and Mary (1975). He was also predeceased by brothers, Elmer, Edward and George; sisters, Helene Wick and Evie in infancy. Henry leaves to mourn his passing, children: Diana (Henry) Lazurca; Loren (Joan) Vargo; Maureen (Lloyd) Noble; Verlaine (Garry) Peterson; Sherry (Ken) Forsyth; Blaine (Anne) Vargo; Brian (June) Vargo; 17 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. To cherish his memory he leaves a brother, Laurence (Carole) Vargo of Ceylon; and his eldest sister, Anne Stopa of Regina. He also leaves sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. Henry farmed for 48 years with a deep respect and commitment to the land. His retirement years in Moosomin were made richer by friends and neighbours who supported and assisted him when they could. Funeral service was conducted at Carscadden Funeral Chapel in Moosomin on Thursday, January 6, with Rev. Michael Williams officiating. An interment service was held on Friday, January 7 at Riverside Memorial Park in Regina. If friends so desire, contributions may be made to the Moosomin Union Hospital or the Saskatchewan Lung Association, Box 58000, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 7Y4.
Born: June 1, 1935 in the Lake Alma District of Saskatchewan. Entered into Rest: Castlegar, British Columbia, December 6, 1999. Ella was predeceased by her father and brother. Ella leaves behind her loving husband of 47 years, Virgil Olson; and their children: Brenda Jersak (Merv), Albuquerque, New Mexico; Marvie Krogh (Tim), Kelowna, BC; Steve Olson (Marjie), North Vancouver. She also leaves seven grandchildren: Heather and Nicky Jersak; Josh, Jamie Lee and Kodie Krogh; Jared and Brianna Olson; her mother, Klara Tandberg, Beaubier, SK; and two sisters: Reidun Froes (John), Calgary, AB; and Hjordis Olson (Gordon), Beaubier. Ella was always willing to move wherever the Lord led. She loved life and never complained about her fight against cancer. It seemed as if she had won that battle. Ella left this world without any pain. She has finished her course. There is a Crown of Righteousness awaiting her. God prepared a place for her. Thank God for that.
Job 1: 21 "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, Blessed be the name of the Lord."
Rev. 14:13: "Yes," says the Spirit, "they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them."
Ella's last contribution to Virgil's sermon of December 5, 1999: "It was said of a certain saintly man that people never found the richest treasures of his nature until they did him a wrong or showed him an unkindness; then his heart poured out its surprise of love." from "The Master's Blesseds" pg. 69.
On Tuesday, December 28, 1999, Verna Mae Towne, late of Weyburn, passed away at the age of 79 years. Predeceased by her parents, James and Bessie Bladon; her sister, Opal Kennelly; one brother, Stan Bladon; and her first husband, Les McPhee. Verna is survived by her husband, Lloyd Towne of Weyburn; her daughters: Bonnie (Arvin) Snelling of Weyburn, and Donalda (Bob) Johnston of Weyburn; step-children: Allen (Karen) Towne, Leroy (Pat) Towne, Terry Towne, all of Victoria, BC; Dave (Virginia) Stockham of Weyburn; Kim Stockham of Stony Plain, AB; and Pat (Paul) Kusmire of Spruce Grove, AB; grandchildren: Trevor Strachan of Medicine Hat, AB; Cheryl (Tom) Rudy of Weyburn; and Tracey (Erin) Strachan of Broadview; Rob Johnston of Weyburn; Jill (Greg) Kokoski of Melfort; and Brooke Johnston of Weyburn; as well as two great grandchildren: Zachary and Braden, 11 step grandchildren; and a sister, Myrtle Dyson and her family of Winnipeg, MB. Verna Mae Towne was born September 21, 1920 at Dauphin, MB. She moved with her family to Regina as her father worked for the railroad, and she completed her high school at Balfour High in Regina. As a child, she enjoyed spending time at Clear Lake. In 1942 she was married to Les McPhee. They raised two daughters, Bonnie and Donalda. Les passed away May 1970, and in 1972 Verna married Lloyd Towne. Verna enjoyed dancing, playing bingo, and baking for her family. She also loved to spend time at her daughter's cottage at White Bear Lake. She was a Past Honored Royal Lady of the Royal Purple and a member of the Legion Ladies Auxiliary. A memorial service was held Saturday, January 8 at 2:00 p.m. from Knox Presbyterian Church, Weyburn, with Rev. John Ferrier officiating. Interment followed in Green Acres Memorial Gardens, Weyburn. 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 January 2, 2000, Gordon Walter Tocher, late of Drumheller, AB, passed away at the age of 45 years. Gordon was born July 1, 1954 at Wawota. Predeceased by his father, William Ferd Tocher, his mother, Rose Ruptash; stepmother, Mary Bone; one brother, Allan Tocher; one nephew, David Tocher, and one niece, Penny Lou Tocher. Gordon is survived by his son, Kelly Bone of Prince George, BC; his family: Laura Martin of Didsbury, AB; Maryann Hodgeson (Fred Twigge) of Redvers; Jim (Evangeline) Tocher of Prince George, BC; Irene Bochek (Pat Jackson) of Halbrite; Betty Anne (Danny Hodgeson of Manor; Patty (Keith) Bone of Prince George, BC; Darlene Tocher (Brian Round) of Prince George; and Emily (Nick) Dennis-Tocher of Moosomin, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.
Margaret Hall (Mabee) passed away suddenly at the Rockyview Hospital on January 5, 2000 at the age of 92 years. Marge was born on December 6, 1907 in Ellisboro, SK and together with her first husband, Bill Mabee, raised a family of five children in Stoughton. She later resided in Weyburn doing what she loved most - working in the ladies dress shop as a seamstress and saleslady. She moved to Calgary with her husband Bill Hall in 1970 where she resided until her death. Marge will be lovingly remembered by her husband Bill, four sons: Mel Mabee, Hugh Mabee, Glenn (Jeanette) Mabee, Allan (Phyllis) Mabee, one daughter Lynette (Norman) Paarup, 13 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister, Ruth Neidens. She was predeceased by granddaughter Marcia, great granddaughter Stacie and great grandson Michael. Funeral service was held at Leyden's 'Chapel of Remembrance', Calgary, on Saturday, January 8 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Remo Madsen officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined but for those who wish, donations may be made directly to the Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation, 1825 Park Road SW, Calgary, AB T2G 3Y6. Interment to follow at a later date in Weyburn. Arrangements in care of Leyden's Funeral Homes.
Memorial service for Willard Lyle Hockley, late of Yellow Grass, age 76 years, was held Monday, January 10, 2000 at 2:00 p.m. from the Church of Christ with Pastor Harold Cooper officiating. Interment Yellow Grass Cemetery. Willard was predeceased by his parents, D. Henry and Lula Hockley; his brothers, Kenneth and Daniel Hockley. He leaves to mourn, his wife, Florence Hockley of Yellow Grass; his sons: Donald (Paula) Hockley of Rochester, MN; Ricky (Joy) Hockley of Rapid City, S.D.; three grandchildren: Nathanael, David and Matthew Hockley; his brother, Harold (May) Hockley of Mason, Ohio; his sisters: Eileen (George) Chapman of Calgary, AB; Audrey (Merle) of Charlottetown, P.E.I.; one sister-in-law, Irma Hockley of Regina; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers donations to the Alberta Bible College, 635 Northmount Dr., Calgary, AB T2K 3J6 or Maritime Christian, 503 University Ave., Charlottetown, P.E.I. C1A 7Z4. Arrangements in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.
