It is with great sadness to inform , Sylvia Joyce Reagan passed away peacefully December 15,2020. She was born on January 21, 1953 , in Canora, Saskatchewan. Sylvia was predeceased by the love of her life, Graham in 2016. She is survived by her 3 children, Melinda, Leo and Desmond; her 7 beautiful grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
As per Sylvia’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Once regulations allow for a proper gathering, family and friends and will be notified with the details.

With great sadness, the family of Robert Allen Kemp announces his peaceful passing on December 14. We take comfort in knowing he was lovingly greeted by Frances (Frankie), his wife of 46 years, and they are together again.

Robert is fondly known by his friends as either Al or Red – owing to his trademark shock of red hair. Born February 28, 1933 in Kisbey, Saskatchewan, he lived each one of his 87 years to the fullest. Left to honour and celebrate his life are his children, Sandra Kew (Allen) and Craig Kemp (Wendy); granddaughters Kandice Kew Ashmore (Blaine Ashmore), Darci-Rae Kew and Ashly Kemp; and great-grandchildren Valerie, Alyssa and Elijah. Al loved animals, and he will also be dearly missed by several very special furry companions.

From a young age, Al worked through ranks of CP Rail in Saskatchewan, helping to keep the trains running on time and the grain cars full. During his 35-year career, he was posted in Broadview, Regina and Weyburn, all while he and Frankie raised Sandra and Craig.

Not one to be idle, Al loved to give back to his community, serving on town council and the school board in Broadview. In Weyburn, he and Frankie enjoyed providing a second home to young hockey players as billet family for the Red Wings – the beloved hometown Junior A team. He was also an active member of the Elks, Lions and Freemasons.

Al was a jack-of-all-trades and excelled at working with his hands. Over the years, he enjoyed numerous carpentry, electrical and construction jobs – including helping to build Sandra and Allen’s first home in Yellow Grass.

Throughout his life, Al relished friendly competition and sports of any kind. What he didn’t play, he watched. He especially enjoyed hockey, both as a coach and a fan. In his youth, he loved to golf, bowl, curl, hunt and fish. He was also an avid – and skilled – pool player. In recent years, he played competitively with Triple “E” and Wal-Mac pool leagues in Edmonton, where he met many new friends. His skills and sportsmanship earned him numerous individual and team awards, including several city championships, and took him to a memorable tournament in Las Vegas at the sprightly age of 75.

Al also loved to play board games and cards – from poker to crib to solitaire, and everything in between. He is likely enjoying a heavenly game right now with Frankie and other dearly departed, including his father, Robert; mother, Theresa; brothers Ernie, Clarence, Harold and Lloyd; father-in-law William; mother-in-law Cora; and numerous other friends and family.

In 1998, Al and Frankie moved to Edmonton to be closer to their children and grandchildren. This gave him many opportunities to meet new faces, and to spend treasured time with loved ones. Al will be greatly missed by countless friends, family and neighbours. A memorial service will be held at a later date, when we can all safely gather together and celebrate the richness of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully accepts donations in Al’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, or any charity of your choice.

Jean Alice (McNee) Stewart
June 9, 1928 – December 12, 2020

On December 12, 2020, Jean Alice (McNee) Stewart passed away at the Grey Nuns Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 92.

Jean was born in Vegreville, Alberta, on June 9,1928, the second child to Peter Clarke McNee and Stella May (Johnson) McNee. She was the only girl in the family, and had three brothers; Lloyd (Stephanie) McNee, Allen (Pat) McNee, and Donald McNee (Sandy).

At an early age, Jean learned to work hard on the family farm near Vegreville. Among other responsibilities, she had the assignment to clean the house, and cook many large meals for the farm help. The most disliked task was taking care of the chickens, as they often frightened her. Jean shared several stories about her experiences with chickens, and they became the catalyst for many jokes and pranks over the years. She would laugh right along with everyone, and was always a great sport.

After high school graduation in Willingdon, Jean moved to Edmonton to receive secretarial training at the Alberta Business College. Later, while working at Imperial Oil, a handsome young engineer caught her eye. Jean said that when Mr. Stewart called for a stenographer, she would always try to be the first one to his office. Apparently, she caught Lowell’s eye too, as they began dating, and were later married on June 5, 1954. A year later their first child, Laurie, was born. Kevin was born in 1959, then Lynda completed the family in 1965.

Jean’s creative touch made home a pleasant place to be. She was resourceful, and used her talents and skills to enhance home life. If she couldn’t find what she wanted, she would figure out a way to make it herself, and for much less money. She was adept at making drapery, upholstery, sewing the family’s clothing, crocheting, and crafts of all sorts

Always a gracious hostess, Jean enjoyed inviting family and friends over for an evening of delicious home-made food, and light-hearted conversation. Many happy memories began around the table. Mom balked at installing an automatic dishwasher until much later in life, as she preferred having her children learn to help in the kitchen, and do the dishes. Her tasty recipes have been handed down, treasured for three generations, and her delicious gingerbread cookies (“man cookies”) are still a favorite treat for the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to Mom’s decorating talent, she was also musically inclined, and was often asked to sing at musical events. She could also play the piano, and felt it was important to encourage and facilitate music education for each of her children. Music was always an important part of the family’s home life.

Mom often showed love and compassion in thoughtful ways to those around her. As a tribute to her, Jean’s name was passed down as a middle name to a daughter, 2 granddaughters, and 2 great granddaughters. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was sealed to her husband and family for eternity in the Cardston, Alberta temple. She offered service to her church in many unheralded ways.

Jean was a loving and supportive wife to Lowell. During her last few years, roles reversed, and Dad lovingly cared for Mom as her health steadily declined. It was a beautiful expression of love and support to her. We suspect that Dad probably pulled some heavenly strings after his recent passing 19 days ago, as we knew they could not be apart for long.

We will miss Mom’s kind words of advice, her example of integrity and hard work, her loving service to her family and friends, her glowing countenance when family was around, and her tight squeeze around our shoulders with the words, “Love you!” She was a devoted wife to her husband, Lowell; a loving mother to Laurie (Dale) Luke of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Kevin (Ann) Stewart of Sherwood Park, Alberta, and Lynda Stewart of Sherwood Park, Alberta; a special grandma to Renée Stewart of Calgary, Alberta, Alan Stewart of Montreal, Quebec, Laura Stewart of Edmonton, Alberta, Mark (Reylene) Luke of Chandler, Arizona, Spencer (Audrey) Luke of Kaysville, Utah, Patti (Dane) Lemon of Queen Creek, Arizona; and an adored great grandma to 7 great granddaughters and 6 great grandsons.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and recently by her beloved husband, Lowell, of 66 years (deceased on November 23, 2020).

The family wishes to express deep appreciation to all those who have shared their love and concern for the family, and to the hard-working hospital staff at the Grey Nuns Hospital, for their compassionate care during Mom’s hospitalization.

Due to the restrictions of COVID-19, there will be no funeral at this time. Memorial services will be determined at a later date for both Jean and Lowell. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made by donations to the Humanitarian Aid Fund – Church of Jesus Christ, an Alzheimer’s research or support organization, or another charity of one’s choice.

Irene passed away on December 1 at the Citadel Care Home in St. Albert. Predeceased by Grant August 5, 2020, her husband of 63 years and survived by sons Bruce (Dana), Brent (Karen) and David and grandchildren Kara, Jamie, Baillie (Zach), Connor and Katie.

Though Irene had been ill for many years, she is lovingly remembered for her generosity, commitment to family and friends and mischievous sense of humour. Irene cared deeply for her family and dedicated her life to raising her 3 sons.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Citadel for their kindness. Our gratitude to Marie Paul for her love, care and compassion. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the downtown Edmonton YMCA in support of the Grant & Irene Duncan Strong Kids Leadership Award.

MOCKFORD, Donald H
September 24, 1946 – December 5, 2020
Donald Herbert “Herb” Mockford
It is with profound sadness and overwhelming grief that after a courageous and hard fought battle with cancer, our beloved Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Grandpa, Uncle, and friend passed away at 74 years of age. Herb passed peacefully at his home in the loving arms of his family. Herb is mourned by the love of his life, his wife of 55 years, Wilma, son Don (Teresa), son Kevin, daughter Michele (Gerald), Grandchildren Ryan, Brenna, Hannah, Sadie, Kyle, his Mother Beatrice, his brothers, Greg, Dennis, Glen, Larry and Rob and sister, Barb, their spouses as well as his many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his father Fred, Wilma’s parents, Christiaan and Elisabeth, his Sister-in-law, Agatha, and his nephews Johannes Van Es, Kirk Skocylas and Christopher Mockford.
Herb was a kind and gentle soul who was always there for those he cared for, never asking for anything in return. He gave from his heart and made this world a much better place by action and example. He began his adulthood at an early age and through incredibly hard work and unbelievable determination, he built a comfortable life for his family and instilled in his children the value of hard work and perseverance as well as the importance of family and friends . He touched many lives and will be lovingly remembered by those closest to him as well as acquaintances through his many business ventures over the years.
Our family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of the Doctors, with a special mention to Dr. Trent Dusang for his compassion and care, Nurses, Caregivers, Relatives and dear neighbours, Anne and Aruna, who were all there when he needed them the most.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Cross Cancer Institute or the Canadian Cancer Society. Due to current restrictions, and in accordance with Herb’s wishes, a service will not be held. Please honour Herb’s passing in your own personal way and help us cherish the memory of a humble Man who put others needs before his own.
You may be gone, but your legacy lives in each of us and you shall not be forgotten. We love you dearly, deeply, always and forever! Sleep gently kind man.

Gisele Sinclair, 62 years young, passed away in the early morning on November 30 2020, less than two weeks after being diagnosed with advanced cancer.
Born and raised in Edmonton, Gisele became a long time resident of St. Albert when she moved here in 1984 after marrying the love of her life, Glenn. They raised two wonderful children in the home they built.
Gisele began work as a hair stylist and then as a bank teller for two local CIBC branches in St. Albert. But her true claim to fame and passion began in 2000 when she and her friend and neighbor Kathie Fisher purchased the Candy Bouquet. They touched the hearts and sweet tooths of many for nearly 20 years before selling the iconic store and retiring in 2019.
Travel was Gisele’s passion and she and Glenn were fortunate to explore much of the world together. She was always dreaming up and planning the next trip. She also loved playing cards, dancing, and drinking red wine. Gisele understood that the most important things in her life were the people she loved. She was never too busy for a card game, or a quick visit over a glass of wine with family and friends, new and old.
She will forever be lovingly remembered by her husband Glenn, daughter Erin, son Raymond (Sarah), and first grandchild Parker. She leaves behind her mother Theresa, sister Carmen, brothers Dan (Jean) and Paul (Wendy), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, a large clan of cousins and relatives and friends worldwide.
A celebration of Gisele’s wonderful life will be held at a later date when all the important people in her life can be together. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to your local cancer foundation.

Willis (Bill) Dutkiwich March 18, 1942 – December 2, 2020
The family of Bill Dutkiwich are very sad to announce his sudden passing after a short battle with COVID-19.
He was predeceased by his grandparents Peter and Lois, parents Walter and Marjorie, brothers Robert and Kenneth, wife Rose and Son James Holowenko, Daughter Loreen Anita Dutkiwich.
Left to mourn his loss are son: Troy and Melodie Chalifoux, grandsons Jake and Matthew, daughter: Cynthia & Colin Town. Grandson: Ryan (McKayla) Town, great grandchildren: Keira and Daxton. Also mourned by sisters and brothers Nellie (Walter), Russell (Ethel), Marion (Ed), Randy, Sandy, Maria, Jill and their families with many nieces and nephews.
Bill can always be remembered by his quick wit, smile and smirk. He always loved to be doing something whether it be working or out catching up on the daily gossip at the Hinton Husky. After the passing of his wife Rose, he always did his best to keep everything as normal as he could.
The pride and joy of his life were his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He always wanted to know how they were and what they were doing. He beamed to hear that Jake had followed in his dad Troy’s footsteps and made a career in law enforcement. He would always say “No one will mess with him.”
He always had a story to tell about his travels and accomplishments in life. You could always depend on him no matter the situation. All you would have to do is sit down and have a coffee with him, let him know what the issue was you were having and he would help you figure out how to get through it or would help you if the situation called for it.

… Dad…
If I could write a story
It would be the greatest ever told
Of a kind and loving Dad
Who had a heart of gold
I could write a million pages
But still be unable to say, just how Much I love and miss him
Every single day
I will remember all he taught me I’m hurting but won’t be sad Because he’ll send me down the answers And he’ll always be MY DAD

Bill will be greatly missed. Upon his wishes there will be no funeral services. He will be interred at a later day with his wife Rosie.
In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to your local seniors homes.

It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the peaceful passing of John Fredrick Hisson at the age of 73.

He is survived by his loving wife Judy, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sisters, brothers, aunt, nieces, and nephews and friends alike. He will never be forgotten.

John was born in Toronto on October 11, 1946 where he resided until May 1963 when 16 year old John answered the call to serve his country under the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps Soldier Apprentice Plan.

During his time with the Canadian Armed Forces, he served in the RCASC (Royal Canadian Army Service Corps ) at CFB Borden, ON; CFB Shilo, MB; 2 – 6 month tours of Cyprus, Germany , Ottawa; CFS Alert for 6 months; CFB Edmonton with the Canadian Airborne Regiment; CFS Goose Bay, NF; CFB Toronto, ON; and Bosnia for 7 and 1/2 months.

A private and limited Celebration of Life in keeping with John’s wishes was held on September 26. John would have been especially proud to see fellow Airborne members who he served with in attendance.

COMMON SOLDIER
He was just a common soldier & his ranks are growing thin
But his presence should remind us we may need his like again.
If we cannot do his honour while he’s here to hear the praise

Then at least let’s give him homage at the ending of his days.
Perhaps just a simple headline in a paper could say,
Our country is in mourning,
For a SOLDIER DIED TODAY.

Donations in memory of John can be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

James Douglas Dale

December 5, 1939- November 16, 2020

Lovingly remembered by Lynn, his wife of 53 years, daughter Erin (Greg), son Mac (Jeanette), twins Ashley and Martin , and a large family of friends and relatives worldwide.

Doug was born and grew up in Edmonton. He attended Victoria Composite High School where he and friends formed the Sultans ?Car Club racing their hot rod to a middle eliminator championship.

He attended the University of Alberta, studying Mechanical Engineering. He graduated with a B.Sc. in 1961 and an M.Sc. in 1963. After two years of experience in industry, he and Lynn moved to Seattle where he earned a Ph.D at the University of Washington.

In September of 1969, Doug was hired as Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Alberta, lecturing in the area of Thermodynamics. He twice served as Department chair and was twice recognized by the Faculty of Engineering student-staff committee for excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. He was a Fellow of Engineers Canada, the American Society of Testing and Materials , the Canadian Automotive Engineers and an honorary Fellow of Geoscientists Canada. He retired in 2003.

Doug’s research had far reaching implications. As a participant in the Alberta Home Heating Project, Doug and his colleague Mark Ackerman studied heat loss through the walls and floor of basements. This research brought changes to building codes in both Canada and the United States with savings estimated at $1 billion dollars each year.

In other research, Doug and a colleague from Electrical Engineering pioneered the use of lasers to start Diesel engines in an effort to make them less polluting. This research continues today at Universities in Austria and Japan.

An invitation from Betty Crown in Human Ecology to Doug to design a test to evaluate the flammability of garments became his focus. He and colleagues developed a system for evaluating the ability of clothing to block heat with applications for workers in oil and gas, petroleum and chemical industries, wild land firefighting and some military applications. His testing laboratory was the only one in North America not owned by industry. This system took Doug and Betty to many places around the world as they represented Canada helping to set North America and European industry standards.

Doug found life balance with friends, family and physical activity. He played squash and racket ball, ran through the river valley with a running group or occasionally with his daughter and her black lab.

He happily attended the Edmonton INDY Car races with his son and his friends. He curled, drag raced, sailed at the cabin, travelled and spent many a happy hour maintaining his 1934 Chev coupe “Stovebolt” that Lynn and Doug had taken on their honeymoon in 1963.

The family will hold a “ Celebration of Life” for Doug at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made to the J. Douglas Dale Award in Mechanical Engineering.

Dawna Lynn Burian (Thirlwell) was born on March 30, 1960 in Edmonton, AB. She passed away peacefully at her home with her family in Chipman AB on November 23, 2020. Dawna is survived by her mother Elizabeth Thirlwell of Chipman AB; Bother Shawn (Maureen) Thirlwell of Camrose AB; niece Lucy Thirlwell of Edmonton AB; nephew Peter Culley (Pinkel Patel) of Edmonton AB, her aunties Pat Thirlwell of Sherwood Park AB; Sheila Chesney of Powell River BC; Uncles Edward (Kirsten) Wholgemuth of Medicine Hat AB; Richard (Gail) Wohlgemuth of Medicine Hat AB and many cousin, family members and friends including her furry friends, Teddy and Roxy; all who will cherish the memory of this loving and vibrant woman. Dawna is predeceased by Grand Parents Edward and Adelaide Thirlwell of Edmonton; Al and Anne Wohlgeuth of Red Deer AB; father Donald Thirlwell of Chipman AB; uncles Wayne Thirlwell of Sherwood Park AB; and John Chesney of Powell River BC. At Dawna’s request there will be no memorial service and no flowers please. Those who wish can make a donation in her memory to the Wild Bear Rescue, Northern Lights Wild life society Smithers, BC V0J 2N7