OBITUARIES

Gilmour Andrew Penny

The funeral service for the late Gilmour Andrew (Gil) Penny of Abernethy, Saskatchewan who passed away, with his family at his bedside, at Weyburn, Saskatchewan on January 13, 2003 at the age of 82 was held in Knox United Church, Abernethy on January 18, 2003 with Rev. Brian R. Mee officiating. Interment followed in the Abernethy Cemetery. The casketbearers were Rick McKee, Doug Knutson, Chad Penny, Kelvin Dick, Kevin Emmerson, Greg Emmerson, Craig Penny and Perry Goldstone. The family were very honored by everyone's presence at the service. Gil was born at Abernethy, Saskatchewan on September 17, 1920, the second of three sons born to Richard and Marion (Morrison) Penny. He spent his entire life farming in the Abernethy district. In 1951, he married Nelle Knutson of Kipling, Saskatchewan. Since Gil retired from farming in 1999, he found time to pursue many interests. His favorite activity was attending the many athletic and musical events his children and grandchildren were involved in. Going "south" to Weyburn for the past four winters enabled him to be more involved in his grandchildren's lives and they all have many precious memories of times spent with their grandpa. Recently, Gil discovered a talent for woodworking and the handmade gifts crafted especially for his family members will be treasured always. Gil was very active in his community throughout his life, serving on the Knox United Church Board, the Co-op Board, the local Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, the Abernethy Agricultural Society and various other committees. Gil will be remembered for his work ethic, his willingness to help family, friends and neighbors, his quick wit, his dishwashing ability and his spectacular collection of pigs. Gil enjoyed good health and a very full and active life until he was stricken by a stroke on Boxing Day, 2002. The family is grateful for the excellent care provided by the doctors, nurses and staff of the Regina General Hospital and the Weyburn General Hospital during the final difficult days of his life. Thanks also to the family members, friends and clergy who provided amazing support during this time. We will remember and appreciate your love and support forever. Gil was predeceased by his parents, Richard (1968) and Marion (1961) Penny and by his older brother, Allen (2001). He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Nelle; daughter, Gilda (Roger) Pilon and granddaughter, Alexa of Saskatoon; son, Murray (Lorraine) and granddaughters, Melody and Alannah of Weyburn; son, Mark (Cindy) and grandsons, Tyler and Brett of Weyburn; brother, Doug (Ellen) of Calgary; sister-in-law, Jean of Parksville, BC; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Laurie Rey of Tubman Cremation and Funeral Services.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our father and grandfather Tom Hart on Jan. 14, 2003 at Weyburn. Tom was predeceased by his wife Eleanor, his parents J.L. and Ruth Hart, brothers Bill and Jim and sister Mary Jo. He is survived by his three children, Sharon Kerfoot of Milk River, AB, Colleen Giroux of Lenexa, KS, and Mick Hart (Pat) of Victoria, BC; sister Norma Hanbury of Victoria, BC; grandchildren Jeff and Adam (Natalie) Kerfoot, Taryn, Ashley and Katie Giroux, Micah Hart; step grandchildren Magda, Nate and Benn Hart and special friend Marie Baker of Phoenix, AZ. Tom was born Feb. 16, 1924 in Oxbow. He received his education in Oxbow and Weyburn prior to enlisting in the Canadian Scottish Regiment in 1941. He saw active duty in France and Belgium. After the war he moved to Toronto where he met and married Eleanor Stitt in April 1947. They later returned to Weyburn where they made their home and raised their family. Tom was employed with the Dept. of Public Health until his retirement in 1979. Tom was very active in public life. He was a life member of the Canadian Legion as well as serving three terms as president. He was a member of the Canadian Federation of Mayors and Municipalities. He was president of SUMA, and District Commander of the Sask Command Division of The Royal Canadian Legion. From 1961-65 Tom served as alderman and later was elected mayor of Weyburn serving three terms from 1967-1976. During his tenure he was instrumental in improving the lives of seniors - implementing programs such as Meals on Wheels and improved housing. He also contributed to improving Weyburn and area parks. His competitive nature often involved him in public relations events such as stock car racing, canoe racing and even a snowmobile challenge with the Mayor of Estevan. All of which he won one way or another. Always putting his civic duties first, the flood of 1969 found Mayor Tom sandbagging and working with flood crews and taking on the responsibility of blowing up the ice jam at the golf course bridge. Tom's love of horses took him on many trail rides, cattle roundups and cross country expeditions. Tom was a recreational carpenter as was evident in his many projects, including his home in Weyburn and two cottages at White Bear Lake. He was also fond of fast cars and loved to drive his sporty purple Mustang, which he bought at age 72. He was a devoted family man and attended all the important events in the lives of his children and grandchildren all over Canada and the U.S. In 1979 Tom started a small trucking company, Derby Transport Inc. In 1980 he opened The Truckers Inn Truck Stop which for a time was the only 24-hour restaurant in the area. In 1983 Tom and Eleanor bought a condo in Mesa, Arizona where they spent many happy times with family and friends. Tom will always be remembered by his family and friends for his sense of humour, his hospitality, his generosity and most of all his love of life.
I lived a life that's full
I've travelled each and every highway
But more, much more than this
I did it my way.

On January 19, 2003, Charles William Edwards of Weyburn, passed away peacefully with his wife at his side. Charles was known to family and friends as Charlie or Chuck. Born on October 20, 1915 in Weyburn, Charlie attended school in Weyburn. In 1939, he enlisted in the army and was released in 1941 with an Honorable Discharge. In 1942, Charlie met and courted Ella Janke until they were married on September 14, 1943. The Edwards were blessed with six wonderful children; their eldest Bonnie Louise born on July 16, 1944; followed by Terrance Charles born on June 6, 1946; accompanied by Charlene Gail born September 4, 1948; followed by David William born November 11, 1954; along with Brenda Lee born on August 26, 1957; and then Jody Lynn born on September 15, 1962. Charlie worked for the city of Weyburn until 1960. After that he worked for Sask Power as a line man. Throughout this time, Charlie was involved as a volunteer fireman. In December of 1959, he was honorably recognized in the Hard Hat Turtle Club along with his good friend Tony Spierling. Charlie enjoyed many outdoor activities, including fishing and hunting with his family and friends. Charlie and Ella along with their family spent many summers at their cabin in northern Saskatchewan. The highlights in Charlie's life were his children and grandchildren. Charlie is predeceased by his parents, William and Louise; sister Muriel Haughn; daughters Charlene and Jody. Charlie leaves to mourn and will be lovingly remembered by his wife Ella; children, Bonnie, Terry (Bonnie), David (Wanda), Brenda (Lorne). Grandchildren: Cameron, Lorae, Mark, Danielle, Matthew, Jason, Michael, Sarah and Chelsey. Great grandchildren: Kyle, Cameron, Gaelon and Rowan; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A memorial service was held Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the chapel of Assurance Funeral Services, Weyburn. Interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Charlie may be made to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Assurance Funeral Services, Weyburn.

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Fred Horner, beloved husband, father and grandfather, at Saskatoon City Hospital. Fred leaves to mourn and to celebrate a life well lived and shared, his wife of 52 years, Doreen Marjorie (nee Widdifield), his children, Don (Diane), Heather (Marcel) and Jane. Fred was predeceased by his greatly loved son Rob (1995). Fred's cherished grandchildren, Melanie, Bryce and Christal Borden, and Jenny, Susan, and Andrew Horner, will carry his fine example and many happy memories throughout their lives. Fred was born in Creelman, youngest son of Jennie and Norval Horner, brother of Harold, Les, Marion, Audrey, Kathleen and Beth. He began farming with his dad in the early 1940's and married Doreen on August 5, 1950. Together they farmed and raised their family. Fred led by example and was known as a compassionate and caring man. He believed in supporting his church and community and gave generously to them. Fred had many talents. He enjoyed poetry, the theater, cycling and traveling. He was a dreamer and taught and supported his children and grandchildren in following their own own dreams. Over the years Fred earned a reputation as one of the community's most respected farmers. He was resourceful and a mechanical genius and his career in farming constantly afforded him with challenges to create, fix and repair. Together he and Doreen made their farm into the beautiful place it is today. In their retirement years Fred and Doreen moved to Saskatoon and made many friends at First Baptist Church, at Saskatoon Towers, and at the Sierras of Erindale. Fred's life was a gift for which we are all truly thankful and blessed. A funeral service to celebrate Fred's life was held at St. Andrew's United Church in Creelman, on Saturday, January 25 at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Heather Lea was officiant. Active pallbearers were Bryce Borden, Andrew Horner, John Widdifield, Richard Widdifield, Marcel Banica and Robert Borden. All in attendance were considered honorary pallbearers. Interment followed in the Golden Gates Cemetery, Creelman. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 401 Fourth Avenue North, Saskatoon, on Saturday, February 1, 2003 with Rev. Paul Matheson officiating. Donations in Fred's memory may be directed to the Saskatoon Habitat for Humanity, 519 Avenue L South, Saskatoon, SK S7M 2H5 or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Sask. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

On Wednesday, January 15, 2003, Helen Elizabeth Carlson, late of Midale, passed away at Mainprize Manor, Midale, at the age of 95 years. Helen was born November 8, 1907 at Midale. Predeceased by her parents, Peter and Esther Peterson; one son, Douglas Carlson and one son-in-law, Jerry Proulx. Helen is survived by her son, Armund (Joan) Carlson of Weyburn and one daughter, Joan Proulx of London, ON; seven grandchildren: Brian (Karen) Carlson of Midale, Cindy (Barrie) Ryan of Arcola, Debby (Ray) Lunn of Regina, Brent (Jackie) Carlson of Medicine Hat, AB, Greg Proulx of London, ON, Tammy (Doug) Murray of Belmont, ON, and Darren (Sue) Proulx of London, ON; 17 great grandchildren; three sisters: Betty Magnuson of White Rock, BC; Margaret Sobel of Sarasota, FL; and Carol Forbes of Boise City, OK; one sister-in-law, Laura Carlson of Hartney, MB as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral service was held Monday, January 20 at 2:00 p.m. from First Baptist Church, Midale, with Pastor Kirby Breitkreuz officiating. Interment followed in Westphalia Cemetery, Midale. Pallbearers were: Corie Ryan, Cooper Ryan, Jerod Lunn, Travis Carlson, Christopher Carlson and Daniel Carlson. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in her memory to the Mainprize Manor, Midale, or to First Baptist Church, Midale. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn, 842-5432.

Henry Jacob Hoffart passed away Monday, January 13, 2003 at the age of 78 years. Henry was born June 6, 1924 on the homestead farm. He was a part of a large family, having 13 brothers and six sisters. Henry was predeceased by his parents Ignatz and Anna Hoffart; as well as 10 brothers and five sisters before him. Henry will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his three brothers; Paul (Irene) of Chilliwack, BC; Iggy (Bev) of Vancouver, BC; and Faltine of Weyburn. One sister Anne Sauvie of Vernon, BC; sisters-in-law Rose and Louise Hoffart of Weyburn. As well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A funeral service was held Friday, January 17 from St. Vincent de Paul R.C. Church. Father Albert Schmitz presider. Henry's pallbearers were Todd Persson, Dwayne Leslie, Jerome Hoffart, and Don Bourassa. Interment followed at St. Mary's Cemetery, Tribune. Donations in memory of Henry may be made to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Assurance Funeral Services, Weyburn.

On Tuesday, January 21, 2003 Danuta Rochat passed away in Regina at the age of 49 years. She was predeceased by her father Wincenty Wasilewski. Danuta is survived by her mother Janina Wasilewska; her children: Jennifer Vinck and Jason Vinck; her husband, Mark Rochat; her sisters: Maria (Denis Laliberte) Wasilewska, Barbara (Roman Melnyk) Wasilewska and Dorota (Donald Verville) Wasilewska; three nephews: Maxime, Simon and Jeremy; two nieces: Julia and Julia. Danuta was born October 13, 1953 in Poland. She excelled at school, especially in Social Studies, Literature and Geography. She was also very good in sports, being the fastest runner in her class. At the age of 17 she immigrated to Canada with her parents and three sisters, residing in Montreal. Danuta moved west and raised her children, eventually settling in Weyburn, where she met and married Mark Rochat on August 31, 2002 at St. Vincent de Paul Church. The arrival of her children, Jennifer Vinck on February 26, 1984 and Jason Vinck on September 13, 1987 was special to her. She proudly attended Jennifer's high school graduation in June, 2002. Danuta always supported and enjoyed her children's activities. When she was out with friends, she would be the first one on the dance floor. Danuta greatly enjoyed working with the dietary staff at Souris Valley Extended Care Centre and at the Weyburn Special Care Home. She cared deeply for so many people and there were many people who brought joy to her life. She had a smile and a kind word for everyone who crossed her path. This was the essence of Danuta, a daughter, a sister, a mother and a wife, whom we loved very much. Danuta will be cherished in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss her, but she will always be with us. Funeral mass was said Saturday, January 25, at 10:30 a.m. from St. Vincent de Paul Church, Weyburn, with Father Albert Schmitz, celebrant. Prayers were held Friday, January 24 at 7:30 p.m. from St. Vincent de Paul Church with Mary Ann Seitz as Lay Presider. Honorary pallbearers were all the dietary staff from SVECC and Weyburn Special Care Home. Active pallbearers were: Chris Payak, Todd Bendtsen, James Beblow, Mary Anne Schaffer, Derek Rochat and Don Ehman. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Danuta to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Sask. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn.

Darcy passed away peacefully at Lacombe Health Care Center, Lacombe, AB, January 22, 2003 with her loving husband Lewis Reid at her side. Darcy was born Nov. 14, 1956 in Bengough and moved to Alberta in 1972. Darcy leaves to mourn, her greatest admirer, husband Lewis of Ponoka, AB, loving parents Norman and Stella Shaver of Bengough, step daughters Vicki of Calgary, AB, Kathy, husband Todd and grandson Aiden of Gull Lake. Brothers Randy, Monty, Corey, sister Janet, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and extended family. Darcy in the last 12 years was able to accomplish her lifelong dream of becoming a full time artist, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, Jean, who was a great influence in her life. Darcy's art adorns the homes of admirers across western Canada, as well as around the world. A memorial service was held at Wilson's Funeral Chapel, Lacombe, AB, on Wed., Jan. 29 at 1:00 p.m. A time of fellowship was held at the Cozy Corner. There will be a second memorial service in Bengough for family and friends Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2:00 p.m. in the Bengough Community Center. Darcy's ashes will be laid to rest along side of her grandparents, Jean and Jay Shaver, in the Bengough Cemetery. Darcy held a special place in our hearts and will be forever missed. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to wfch@telusplanet.net (Note: Shaver Family). Wilson's Funeral Chapel, serving central Alberta with locations in Lacombe and Rimbey, AB, in charge of arrangements. 403-782-3366, 403-843-3388.

Bessie Muriel McTaggart passed away peacefully at Weyburn General Hospital on Wednesday, January 15, 2003 after spending nine weeks in hospital. She was born on Sept. 10, 1917 to Alex and Mary McTaggart on the family farm south of Colgate. Bessie has been a special care giver all of her life and looked after her mother who was not well, and then took care of her dad for nine years. The McTaggarts moved to Weyburn in the spring of 1949. Bessie helped the Gordon and Helen Richardson family and after Helen's death, took care of the household with three children until Gordon remarried. Whenever a neighbour needed help, Bessie was always there for them. Many of Bessie's hours were spent crocheting beautiful doilies and in later years, when she had problems with her eyesight, she worked with plastic canvas. Bessie has been a member of Knox Presbyterian Church and the Sunshine Circle for many years. She was a member of the Alexandria Rebekah Lodge and received her 15 year pin. Predeceased by her mother, Mary, her father, Alex; a brother, James Lewis, and brother-in-law, Richard Bellamy. Bessie is survived by her brother Neil (Annie) McTaggart of Weyburn; sister, Ada Bellamy of Lakefield, ON and sister-in-law, Tillie McTaggart of Moose Jaw; four nieces, two nephews and several great nieces and nephews. Funeral service was held Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. from Knox Presbyterian Church, Weyburn, with Rev. John Ferrier officiating. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. All those in attendance were honorary pallbearers. The active pallbearers were: Rob Willock, Donald Willock, Trevor Willock, Don Neill, Darren Neill and Wes Maas. For those so wishing, donations may be made to Knox Presbyterian Church in her memory. Arrangements were entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd., Weyburn, 842-5432.

Clarence Wilfred Bem (Clare) Scott of Parksville, BC passed away peacefully on January 16, 2003 at the age of 85 years. Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Margaret; one son Malcolm (Danielle) of Edmonton, AB; two daughters, Pat Doan of Parksville, BC and Sandra at home; four grandchildren: Ross (Chantel), Nicole and Rachel Doan and Julian (Lisa) Scott; six great grandchildren; three sisters: Helen Lafoy, Elma Isted both of Regina, and Jean Wicks of Weyburn, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. There will be no service by request of the family. If one so wishes, donations in Clare's memory may be made to the B.C. Parkinson's Disease Assn., c/o Jackie Sankoff, Ste. 600-890 W. Pender, Vancouver, BC V6C 2J9 or District 69 Association for Community Living, Box 578, Parksville, BC V9P 2G6. Email condolences to the family can be sent to yatesfuneral@shaw.ca. Yates Funeral Service and Crematorium in care of arrangements, 877-264-3848.

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