OBITUARIES

Vernon Chester Ray

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Vernon Chester Ray announce his sudden passing on Monday, April 3, 2000 at Creelman, at the age of 81 years. Chester is survived by four daughters, Susanne Deg (Allan Kuklentz), Saskatoon, and her family Lisa (Cory) Smart, Bradwell, and Danielle Deg, Calgary; Judy (Raymond) Desharnais, Regina; Kathy (Michael) Martinez, Saudi Arabia; and Cindy (Gordon) Punter, Luton, England, and one son John (Arlene) and his family Dawn, Vincent, and Amanda, Indian Head; one brother Leslie "Chief" Ray, Creelman; two sisters, Bernice Rich, Regina, and Edith Ray, Creelman; one sister-in-law Georgina Ray, Creelman, as well as his nieces and nephews. Chester was predeceased by his loving wife, Margaret, of 52 years in1998, his father Arthur in 1940, his mother Gertrude in 1978, one brother Alan in 1988, and one sister Ethel Howe in 1984. Chester attended school at Hartaven and then worked on the home farm until 1940 when his father passed away. At that time he ventured out on his own and rented land. He farmed with horses until 1943 at which time he purchased his first Case tractor - a Model L which established his undivided loyalty to Case tractors. With his new Case tractor and a nine foot disc, working round the clock, he was able to do custom seeding in excess of 2000 acres each spring. In 1947 he purchased his own land, which he would farm for his entire life. Early in 1945, Chester met Margaret Howe while she was teaching school at Hartaven. Following a short courtship and whirlwind romance, they were married on July 2nd. They resided on their farm, adjacent to the Ray homestead. Having only a few cattle, which his brother Alan looked after for the winter, Chester was able to winter in Regina and secure employment at numerous construction sites including the Regina General Hospital and the Co-op Refinery. After a few years, he made a seasonal conversion of his one ton grain truck to a tow truck and then worked for a towing company during the winter. Come spring, they headed back to the farm in time to plant the crops. In 1955 Chester expanded his cattle herd and returned to the farm full time. In 1949 their first daughter, Susanne, was born. Over the next ten years, their family grew with the arrival of Judy in 1952, followed by twins Kate and Cindy in 1957 and finally a long awaited son, John in 1959. This completed their family. Over the years Chester supplemented his farming income by various means such as driving the school bus when needed and the bombardier for numerous winters. In the mid 60s he purchased one of the few three ton trucks in the area and was away days-on-end trucking livestock to and from community pastures. In the earlier years it was not unusual for him to make two or more trips a day to Regina Stockyards. Over the years he has trucked cattle for most farmers in the immediate area. Although cattle were his main load, he often hauled grain and occasionally pigs, sheep, horses and even chickens. A quarter of a million miles and 34 years later Chester could still be spotted driving his trusty old Dodge truck! Throughout his life, Chester was actively involved in community affairs and numerous organizations. He served on the Board of Directors for Newhope Pioneer Lodge in Stoughton from its inception in 1959 for 22 years. He served on the Fillmore Hospital board for numerous years until its conversion to a Health Care Center. He served the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipali-ties for over 30 years, in the capacities of councillor, sub-unit director and sub-unit representative. He eagerly anticipated the annual spring SARM conventions where he established lasting friendships with numerous councillors throughout Saskatchewan. He served on the Board of Directors for the Stoughton Co-operative Association from 1992-1999. He served on the PFRA Advisory Committee for Forget Com-munity Pasture for three terms. Chester enjoyed his involvement with the Agricultural Society and served them in various positions. He was very proud to contribute to the success of the Biggest Little Fair in Saskatchewan. He was made an honorary lifetime member of Saskatchewan Association of Agricultural Societies and Exhibitions in 1998. With all his children actively involved in 4-H clubs, Chester enthusiastically accompanied three exchange trips to Iowa as a chaperone. He cherished the lifelong memories and friendships he gained from these travels. Chester was always a very busy man. One of his favorite social activities was attending auction sales far and wide. So much so that, to his delight, he was honored with reserved-bid card #1 by Lackey Auctioneers. Chester rarely returned home without a bargain. Many people will fondly remember Chester for his annual tradition of standing in line to purchase tickets for Creelman Dinner Theater. He was extremely pleased to have his entire family with him in November, which unfortunately, was to be his last dinner theater. Chester's children were a great source of pride to him. Education was a priority and he encouraged them to pursue their chosen careers. He ensured their growth as individuals and supported all of their endeavors. He was very proud of all of his children and happy to know that his son, John, would continue the family farming tradition. As his children married, Chester warmly welcomed each new member into the family. He is the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Lisa, Danielle, Dawn, Vince and Amanda. He was a big part of their lives and will be sadly missed by all of them. In 1994 Chester was excited at the prospect of oil, with the completion of 3-D seismic on his home quarter. He was often overheard to say that if oil was discovered, he would buy himself a brand new Dodge half ton truck. And sure enough, the arrival of the first oilwell saw him at the Dodge dealership ordering the latest model. His truck was well-known and recognized throughout the community. Chester lived life to the fullest and continued to defy the disease that threatened his life. Through his strength and determination, he was hauling grain up until the final days of his life. Although it may be hard for you to imagine an 80 year old man still actively farming and looking after livestock, he did it because it was his life and he loved it. After 52 years of marriage the past two years without Margaret at his side have undoubtedly been the most difficult years of his life. We can now be comforted with the knowledge that he has returned to Margaret's arms. A celebration of his life took place in St. Andrew's United Church, Creelman, on Saturday, April 8, 2000 at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Heather Lea officiated. He will be sadly missed by all who were fortunate to know him and love him.

Alice Blanche Gariepy

On Saturday, April 8, 2000, Alice Blanche Gariepy, late of Radville, passed away at Radville Marian Health Center at the age of 85 years. Predeceased by her father and mother, Joannes and Lydia Cherpin; her husband, Emile in 1979; brothers Rene, Henry and Joseph; and sister Angeline. Alice is survived by her daughter, Eva (John) Turcotte of Radville, and their children Annette (Ken) Claffey of Saskatoon, and their children Scott and Amanda; Harvey (Stacie) Turcotte of Radville, and their children Alexandra, Zachary and Samuel; Ken (Toni) Turcotte of Calgary, AB and their children Ashley and Jeremy; two brothers Desire Cherpin of Radville, and Albert (Mary) Cherpin of Radville; three sisters Marie Deschambault of Weyburn, Rita Delaye of Moose Jaw, and Yvonne (Glen) Hamer of BC; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Prayers were said Tuesday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m. from Holy Family Catholic Church, Radville. A Service of Remembrance was held Wednesday, April 12 at 2:00 p.m. from Holy Family Roman Catholic Church with Father Gilbert Gariepy celebrant. Interment followed in Laurier Cemetery, Radville. All those in attendance were considered to be honorary pallbearers. Those wishing to express their sympathy may donate to the Radville Marian Health Centre Palliative Care Unit in her memory. Arrangements were in care of Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.

Lyall Vincent McKee

On Sunday, April 2, 2000, Lyall Vincent McKee, late of Creelman, passed away at Fillmore Union Health Centre at the age of 90 years 9 months. Predeceased by his parents, James and Sarah McKee; and one brother, Gordon McKee. Lyall is survived by his sister, Myrtle (Bill) Anderson of Saskatoon; brother Howard McKee of Calgary, AB; niece, Sandra (Allan) Wood of Mill Bay, B.C. and their children: Andrew and Shannon; nephew David (Sandra) McKee of Calgary, AB and their children: Tavis and Davin; niece Joni Mitchell of Los Angeles, Calif. and her daughter, Kilauren Gibb and her children: Mariln and Daisy; and many cousins and friends. Lyall was born July 2, 1909 in Regina. He received his education at Sequin School. He started farming at an early age and continued farming until he retired to Creelman in 1983. He enjoyed many activities and was able to remain in his own home until shortly before his passing. Funeral service was held Thursday, April 6 at 2:00 p.m. from St. Andrew's United Church, Creelman, with Rev. Heather Lea officiating. Interment followed in Golden Gates Cemetery, Creelman. All those in attendance were considered to be honorary pallbearers. The active pallbearers were: Gordon Allan, Clarence Dickie, Larry Allan, Charles Allan, Jim Chalmers and Raymond Tully. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in his memory to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

Carroll Leon Levee

Funeral service for Carroll Leon Levee late of Radville, age 85 years, was held on Wednesday, April 11, 2000 at 2:00 p.m. from the Holy Family Catholic Church, Radville, with Rev. Lynda Harrison officiating. Interment followed in Laurier Cemetery, Radville. Carroll Leon Levee was predeceased by his wife, Alfreda, in 1990; his son Dwight in 1945; three grandchildren, Jackie Lynn Guest in 1968, Jeremy Lyle Tytlandsvik in 1979, Landon Keith Levee in 1995; his parents, Allan Leroy in 1918 and Effie Amanda in 1968; sisters, Evelyn Crone in 1991, Zelda Grosenick in 1998 and Phyllis Harper in 1970. He leaves to mourn his children: Bonnie (Lyle) Tytlandsvik of Tribune, and children Trond, Derek and Eili; Betty Guest of Lloydminster, and children Todd (Denene) and Colton, Chad (Shelley) and Chase and Dawson, Ryan (Cora) and Bailey and Layne; Beverley (Lionel) Van De Sype of Radville, and children Cary (Tannis) and Rylan, Trina (Ken) Calladine and Kellie, Kristeen (Carl) and Victoria and Mckenzie; Debbie (David) Stevenson of Lloydminster, AB and children Terra Shannon and, Tristan and Jason Ostropolski; Laurie Wolter of Radville, and children Tarryn (Gary) and Jordan, Tory Wolter and Tawnie Wolter; Lynda (Warren) Blackstock of Gladmar, and children Kyle, Laurynn and Katelyn, Lisa (Don) and Aleisha and Andrew; Keith (Cheryl) Levee of Medicine Hat, AB and children Aaron, Cassidy, Jayleen, Kariss; one sister Myrtle Vermeulen of Swan River, MB; one brother Don (Shirley) Stockton of Moose Jaw; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Honorary pallbearers were his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Active pallbearers were his grandsons: Trond Tytlandsvik, Todd Guest, Cary Van De Sype, Jason Ostropolski, Tory Wolter, Kyle Blackstock and Aaron Levee. Those wishing may donate to a charity of their choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Hastings-Dionne Funeral Home Inc., Weyburn.

Theola Mae Pepper

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Theola Mae 'Olie' Pepper passed away peacefully at Weyburn General Hospital on Thursday, April 6, 2000 at the age of 78. Born May 17, 1921, mom was raised on a farm in the Griffin area and attended St. Elmo School. She moved to Griffin with her mother and brother 'Danny' in the fall of 1940 where she worked as a switchboard operator and at the local post office. There she met George Pepper of Tribune, grader operator for the Department of Highways. They were married December 23, 1949 making their home in Carlyle before moving to Weyburn in 1951. Dad went to work as a carpenter with Weyburn Builders Supplies while mom dedicated her life to her family as a loving wife and mother - and she was very good at it! Mom was always there for us whether it be mending clothes, wiping tears - even settling a 'few' arguments - always careful never to take sides. She loved to sew, making our clothes as we were growing up and sewing for most anyone who asked - everything from baby clothes to wedding and bridesmaid dresses. Mom looked forward to family gatherings - "the more the merrier" she would say -dinner for 30 was not uncommon. As for where to sleep them all? "There's always the floor!" Our door was always open with friends welcome and kids running in and out as if they all lived there. That was the way she wanted it - "Let kids be kids!" Mom cared for dad when he became ill with Alzheimer's Disease and cared for her mother when doctors felt nothing more could be done. There was no limit to what she would do for her family. She will be missed but there is a little bit of mom in all of us and she will remain forever in our hearts. Predeceased by her husband George, her parents Archer and Annie Danforth, sister Clara Baht and brothers Gordon and Audry "Danny." Theola leaves to mourn her passing her children: Beverley (Art) Perry of Saskatoon; Lucy (Greg) Smith of Central Square, N.Y.; Lance (Barb) Pepper of St. Albert, AB; Mildred Taylor of Weyburn; Janet (Dave) Olson of Calgary, AB; Dorothy (Bob) Kamaraus of Weyburn and Velda (Grant) Varley of Regina; 12 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Lucille MacKenzie of Vernon, BC; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ruby Danforth of Calgary, AB; George Baht of Imperial; Nick and Norma Brilz of Radville and Audrey and Joe Barber of Regina; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. In honoring Mom's wishes, a graveside service was held Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 2:00 p.m. in Regina Memorial Gardens Cemetery, following cremation, Reverend John Ferrier officiating. Urnbearer was grandson Wes Huffman. Honourary pallbearers were grandchildren Angela, Meghan, Matthew, Stacey, Shara, Gerald, Blake, Shane, Jamie, Leanne and Kevin. A reception was held in the Arbor Room at the Regina Funeral Home following the service. Those so wishing may make donations in Theola's memory to the Saskatchewan Lung Association, Box 58000, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 7Y4.

Donald Bennett

On Thursday, April 6, 2000, Donald Bennett, late of Weyburn, passed away at Souris Valley Regional Care Centre, at the age of 80 years. Predeceased by his father and mother, Henry Ross and Amy Bennett. Donald is survived by his sister Doris Lyons of Calgary, AB; two brothers Robert Bennett of Pitts Meadow, BC and Murray Bennett of Charlottetown, PEI; as well as his friends and residents at Souris Valley. Funeral service was held Monday, April 10 at 3:00 p.m. from Souris Valley Assembly Hall, Weyburn, with Bill Corkum officiating minister. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in his memory to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

Thomas Washington (Tomi) Chow

Thomas Washington (Tomi) Chow was born February 2, 1928 in Moose Jaw, and passed away peacefully on Monday, April 10, 2000 in Weyburn. He is predeceased by his parents Charles and Mary Chow and brothers George, Peter and William Chow. Thomas is survived by his wife, Lillie Chow of Radville; his son Dr. Dean (Susan) Chow of Estevan; two grandchildren: Derek and Ciera Chow; three sisters: Kay Yee of Santa Barbara, CA, Helen (David) Paterson of Victoria, BC and Joan (Donald) Hepburn of Victoria, BC; one brother Edward (Ann) Rodgers of Saskatoon; three sisters-in-law: Jean Wong of Radville, Violet Chow of Moose Jaw, and Faye Chow of Moose Jaw; special nephew Bing (Dorothy) Wong of Los Angeles, CA; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Tomi's zest for life was evident in his athletic endeavors over his lifetime. He was both an avid and skilled hockey player being a member of the Sask.-Alberta-BC Juvenile Champion Moose Jaw Monarchs in 1944-45. Tomi was a member of the 1945-46 Moose Jaw Juvenile Canucks, the 1947 Humboldt Indians and the 1948 Trail BC Smoke-eaters. In 1948 he played semi-pro hockey in Los Angeles, CA and returned to Canada, playing for the Radville Nationals from 1949 into the 1960s. Tomi was involved with coaching, managing and supporting hockey in the Radville area since 1949. To say that Tomi was an avid golfer would be an understatement. He attended golf school in Dallas, TX in 1964 earning his professional golfer's status. Tomi became club professional at the Weyburn Golf & Country Club in 1965 and has been affectionately known ever since as "The Radville Pro." Over the years, Tomi won several tournaments including the Weyburn Invitational, Minot International and the Sask. Chinese Open. He taught golf and supported the game of golf in the Weyburn-Radville area for the last 40 years. Tomi was extremely active in the community in terms of civic and service work. He served on the Radville Town Council from 1969-1974 as a councillor and sometimes deputy mayor. Tomi was also involved in several service clubs and lodges. He was a charter member of the Radville Elks and a brother of the Masonic Lodge and the Wa Wa Shrine. He served through all of the chairs and filled basically every position at one time or another in these service clubs and lodges. Tomi served on the board of the Golden Heritage Nursing Home for 25 years and served a term as chairman. Tomi worked for both national railroads over the early part of his life. In 1948 Tomi met Lillie Wong and they were married in August of 1949. In 1950, Lillie and Tomi returned to Radville where Tomi operated his father-in-law's restaurant, The King's Hotel & Cafe until 1969. In 1969, Tomi went to work in the Monarch Life Assurance Company attaining his life underwriter's status. Tomi stayed with the company throughout its changes from Monarch to North American Life to Manulife until his passing. In his capacity as life underwriter, he touched countless people's lives in Saskatchewan and western Canada. Tomi will be sadly missed by all he touched in his short but productive lifetime. What people will really miss is his unique sense of humour, the twinkle in his eyes and the willingness of Tomi to help support and give guidance to anyone and everyone in need. A service to celebrate Tomi's life was held at Radville United Church, Friday, April 14 at 2:00 p.m. Presiding was Pastor Martin Olson. Interment was in Laurier Cemetery, Radville. Donations in Tomi's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

Peter Hrycyszyn

Peter was born in Poland in 1912. He had two older sisters, and two older brothers. The brothers were killed in 1939 and 1944 during the Second World War. He, himself was in the war and was held as a prisoner of war in Germany from 1939-45. After the war he came to Canada in 1948 and worked for the C.P. railroad, then relocated to Lake Alma where he settled in farming. He was very particular with his farm land, and very proud of his durum wheat when weather conditions were right. Peter never married, and because of this he was very set in his own ways. He was a very kind, honest man, who helped many people and in turn, they helped him. He was very thoughtful and concerned of others. When one of his friends were sick, he walked to check on him two to three times a day, until the end. Peter loved to visit and play cards at the Senior 50 Club where they bestowed him with an honorary life membership. Peter liked to travel and made trips to Poland, U.S.A. to visit his U.S. family, and was especially happy just to get in his truck and drive all over the country. During his many years in Lake Alma, Peter spent a lot of time with his sister, Aniela and Gus Oshust. He moved to the Golden Heritage in Radville where he spent three years, then to the Radville Marian Home, until his passing. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Funeral mass was held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 13, 2000 from Sacred Heart R.C. Church, Torquay, with Father C. Lucey officiating. Interment followed at Sacred Heart R.C. Church Cemetery, Torquay. Prayers were said at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 12 from the Sacred Heart R.C. Church. Pallbearers were Ted Sliwka, Palmer Solie, Jack Makelki, Tom Paul, Arnold Paul and Marlynn Whitteron. Peter was predeceased by his parents, Marcin and Jadwiga; brothers Jan and Karol; sister, Aniela Oshust. Peter leaves to mourn, his nephews, Jan (Aleksandra) Hrycyszyn; Joe (Mary) Hrycyszyn of New York. His niece, Pauline Szmigielski, Radville, and many great nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Radville Marian Home. Arrangements were in care of the Orsted Funeral Home, Estevan. Joe and Jan Hrycyszyn and family, are grateful to Ingrid Bjork for caring and her kindness shown to our uncle and helping us with funeral arrangements, also to a very special friend Gena Kielbasa.

Roy McGregor

On April 1, 2000, Roy McGregor passed away at St. Joseph's Special Care Home in Estevan at the age of 78 years. He was predeceased by his parents John (1938) and Margaret (O'Brien) McGregor in 1982, also his brothers John (1990), Ken (1993) and his sister Venus in 1996. He is survived by his loving wife, Orma, of 47 years and his four sisters Lydena (Jim) Clancy, Kelowna, BC, Madia (Martin) Bouey, Regina, Edna (Hal) Maitland, Calgary, AB, and Ruby Combes, Cremona, AB, and many nieces and nephews. Roy was born August 23, 1921 and spent his life farming and trucking in the Stoughton area. The memorial service was held April 5 in Grace United Church with Rev. Jann Sampson officiating. The inurnment followed at the Stoughton Cemetery. Wes Olver, Roy's nephew, carried the Urn. All of Roy's friends and family and everyone who shared in his life and all who were in attendance were considered honorary pallbearers. If friends so desire donations in his memory can be made to Alzheimer's Society or Estevan Special Care Home or the charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Paragon Funeral Home Services, Regina.

The Weyburn Review

Box 400, 904 East Avenue
Weyburn, SK
S4H 2K4
Phone: (306) 842-7487
Fax: (306) 842-0282
E-mail: weyburn.review@sk.sympatico.ca

This web page and its contents are copyright of the Weyburn Review (1987) Ltd.