Al Albrecht

With great sadness, the family announces the peaceful passing of Al Albrecht after a brief illness, on September 11, 2016, in his 85^th year.

Al was born to Roy and Agatha Albrecht in 1932 in Kandahar, Saskatchewan. He spent his first 17 years growing up on the farm with three sisters and two brothers. He moved to Geraldton, Ontario in 1949 and lived there for four years before moving to Atikokan in 1953 when he was 21. Al worked at Steep Rock Iron Mine until the mine closed. He continued working to dismantle the mine, and eventually at the security gate. Al was the last employee at Steep Rock in Atikokan.

Al lived his life fully and with enthusiasm and was the pillar of his family. Al had a tremendous sense of community and loved Atikokan. He was a long time Lions Club member, hockey and baseball coach, and a member of the Atikokan Legion. Al was a prolific bowler, dart player, and fastball player.

Al is survived by his wife of 55 years Joanne, daughters Cathy and Allyson (Conley Koswan), and son Dan (Michele). Al will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren Ben, Andy, Joey, Carly, and Emily, and great-grandchildren Carter and Roo. Also surviving are sister-in-law Gayle Dutka, nephews Rick and Glen Dutka, sisters Mavis and Rose, and brothers Ralph and Gordon. He was pre-deceased by his parents, sister Stella, and brother-in-law Bill Dutka.

A celebration of Al’s life was held September 15 at the Royal Canadian Legion in Atikokan.

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Wally Davidson

With heavy hearts, the family of Wallace (Wally) Glen Davidson, announces his passing with his family by his side on Saturday, October 15, 2016 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Wally was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great uncle and friend. Born on September 20, 1946 in Atikokan, he was the son of the late Albert Davidson and Doris Fisher.

Wally was the youngest of six children (Bobby, Bruce, Jim, Peggy, and Allan), and spent his younger years growing up on White Street, in Atikokan. Wally married Linda in 1966 and had their first daughter, Shannon, in 1968. While living in Thunder Bay, during Linda’s university years, Wally delivered milk, with Shannon in a milk cart, eating kielbasa, by his side. They later moved to Haarala Lane when their son Blake was born in 1974. Wally worked for the township for many years, starting at the Atikokan Arena driving the Zamboni before moving on to the sewer truck, and then finally moving up to superintendent for numerous years before retiring.

In his younger years, Wally enjoyed playing broomball, hockey, and lob ball. He was an excellent athlete and even in his older years he loved to show off his hand stands in the middle of the coffee table to his grandkids.

The last twenty or so years, Wally spent loving his beautiful wife, Shelley. His adoration for Shelley was obvious to everyone; he loved her more than life itself. Wally and Shelley married in a simple, loving ceremony at Little Falls on September 27, 2014, with immediate family by their side. Their favourite past time was spending time with their children, grandchildren, and precious great grandchildren.

Those who knew Wally, knew he would do anything for them. He was a kind and caring man who expected nothing from anyone, yet would abundantly give to those in need. He will be forever missed.

Wally is survived by his wife, Shelley, his children, Jenn Howie (Jeff), Shannon Davidson-George (Tuffy), Blake Davidson (Alyssa), Jenn Wasney (Justin), grandchildren Erika (Brock), Alex, Cayleigh, Jordyn, Ben, and Sawyer; and great granddaughters Kodi-Jo, Hayden, and Navy, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his brothers, Bobby and Jim (Nancy); sister Rita; mother-in-law Bev (Brian), sister-in-law Debbie, brothers-in-law Scott and Angus, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Wally was pre-deceased by his parents, brothers Allan, Bruce, and sister Peggy; his first wife Linda; son Cody Wasney; nephew Doug Moffat; and sister in law Cecilia.

Family and friends gathered October 21 for a service held at the Legion in Atikokan.

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Joyce Cunningham

Mrs. Joyce Cunningham, 88, of Atikokan, passed away peacefully with her loving son and daughter-in-law by her side on Sunday, October 30, 2016 at the Atikokan General Hospital.

Joyce was born July 19, 1928 in Port Arthur, Ontario. She was a longtime resident of Atikokan with her husband Harold. Joyce was an avid gardener, loved to fish, knit, crochet, as well as feed the Whiskey Jacks, which would often be found on her window ledge. Joyce especially enjoyed playing cribbage with her son, and is now enjoying a game or two with Nan. Joyce was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Atikokan.

Joyce will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 71 years, Harold, of Hogarth Riverview Manor, her children; Bruce (Nancy) of Thunder Bay, Laurene (Don) Grimm of Foremost, AB, Larry (Beverly) of Thunder Bay, Kenneth of Vancouver, Allan (Pamela) of Peachland, BC, and Glenna (Orvil) Dolph of Thunder Bay. She is survived by many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Joyce was pre-deceased by her mother Erie Hann, youngest son Wayne Cunningham, grandson Darren Dolph, brother Ted Rumelhart, and sister Rena Atkinson.

A memorial service was held November 6 at the First Baptist Church, Atikokan, with Rev. David Baxter officiating. Interment will take place at Mountainview Cemetery, Thunder Bay. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Atikokan General Hospital Foundation (Box 2490) would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.SargentAndSon.com

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Stan Stewart

With great sadness the family of Stanley Robert Stewart, 91, announces his passing on Tuesday, November 1, 2016 at the Atikokan General Hospital.

Stan was born on January 20, 1925 near Gladstone, Manitoba, and grew up on the family farm. It was here he met Betty Hanna, who lived on the adjacent farm; they were united in marriage on December 23, 1955. They moved to Atikokan when Stan took a job at Steep Rock, where he worked until the mine closed. He then went to work with Bob Moffatt cutting lines and prospecting. He also spent several years at the pellet plant as well. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking and curling.

He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Betty; children Shelly (Steve), Wendy (Terry), Dale (Sandy), Becky (Robert), Bob (Tracy), and Bonnie (Donnie); grandchildren Bo (Carla), Cassey, Jesse, Tanis (Dave), Ryan (Shongha), Chase, Skye, Gage, Justin, Josh (Janine) and Hannah; great grandchildren Raeya, Emily, Keira, Ryker, Taylor, and Wyatt; sister Isabel Harmon, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Stan was pre-deceased by his parents James and Evelyn Stewart; siblings Arthur, Mary, Kay, Glen and Grace.

Memorial services were held November 8 at Riverview United Church in Atikokan. Cremation has taken place and interment will be at Little Falls Cemetery.

If friends so desire in memoriam donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation (c/o Green Funeral Home, Fort Frances, ON, P9A 3M8). Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Betty Lafreniere

Mrs. Betty Lafreniere, 64, of Atikokan, Ontario passed away November 4, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Thunder Bay after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on March 20, 1952 in Savant Lake, she was raised in Sioux Lookout and moved to Atikokan where she raised her family. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, James; daughters Norma (Douglas), Tammy (Darrell), Crystal (Shane) and Samantha (Ryan), and Grandchildren Amber, Zachary, Dana, Cameron, Sara and Nolan; siblings Violet, Jean, Ken (Rita), Connie, Barbara, and Mary. She was pre-deceased by her son John, parents Helen and Einar, her sister Lucy, and brothers-in-law Tom, Lloyd, and Michael.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service for family and friends was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd (Anglican) on November 9, with Reverend Ruth Ivall officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations be made to the Thunder Bay Cancer Care or St. Joseph’s Foundation. Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com

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Beatrice Gauthier

Beatrice Gauthier, 84, passed away peacefully November 6, 2016 at Atikokan General Hospital Extended Care Wing.

Bea was born November 30, 1931, in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Gertrude and Leslie Moore. When Bea was just fifteen she left Winnipeg to find work in the booming iron mines of Atikokan, where she worked in Steep Rock Iron Mine’s camp kitchen. It was there she met her future husband, Horace Gauthier, a shovel operator, and they were married October 7, 1950.

Bea and Horace built their lives in Atikokan, raising three daughters and sharing a love of music, family, friendship, and community with all who knew them. After her marriage, Bea left the camp kitchens to stay home and raise her family for many years. She returned to work at the Hudson Bay Company department store, where she made lifelong friendships with her many coworkers.

Bea was an active member of the Catholic Church and the choir, where friends and family looked forward to her singing ‘O Holy Night’ annually at Midnight Mass. Her love of singing encouraged her to join the Northernaires where she spent decades entertaining and performing for the community with her beautiful voice. Bea was also an avid seamstress and made clothes and dolls for her children and grandchildren. She was also generous with her time and taught others how to sew. Bea’s other talents included being a wonderful baker, contributing to the Catholic Church bazaar, her love of animals (especially her dogs), and knitting and bunka. She was an active member of Stitch and Bitch for many years, incorporating her love of crafts with camaraderie and friendship.

Bea retired in the 1980s, giving her more time to spend with her children and four grandchildren. She loved preparing meals and baking for her family and spent her retirement years crafting and cooking for those she loved.

Bea was pre-deceased by her parents and her husband, Horace, as well as her brothers-in-law Ted Marlow, Paul Rak, Paul Gauthier, Jean Gauthier, and Jim Gauthier, sister-in-law Angele Gauthier and son-in-law Walter Zagrobelny. She is survived by her sisters Gertie Marlow and Peggy Rak, sister-in-law Mary Gauthier, daughter Leslie Zagrobelny, daughter Sandra (Mike) Gauthier-Poelman, and daughter Lorraine (Chris) Gauthier Stromberg. She will also be missed by her grandchildren Scott Zagrobelny, Alan Gauthier-Poelman, Carly (Darren) Skrenski, and Rory Stromberg, as well as great-grandchildren Page, Nadiya, and Milo Skrenski. Bea has also touched the lives of many others who will miss her.

In memoriam donations can be made to the Extended Care Wing of Atikokan General Hospital or charity of your choice.

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Frank Quinn

Frank Quinn, 89, passed away peacefully in the Atikokan General Hospital on Saturday, November 19, 2016.

Frank had lived in Atikokan for over 60 years, where he ran F.R. Quinn Electric and was a very active member of the community. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s R.C. Church. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether it be gardening, going for walks fishing, or berry picking. In later years he enjoyed his trips to Hawaii with Elaine.

He will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his sons Jim (Carol), Duane, Brian, Michael, Paul, Mark, and John, daughters Daphne (Theodore) Lavoie, Karen, and Nancy Quinn, sister Margaret Andrews, as well as by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was pre-deceased by his parents, William and Margaret, daughter Faye Peterson, granddaughters Heather and Rosalie Peterson, daughter-in-law Natalie Quinn (nee D’Angelo), sister Verna, the mothers of his children Marie Quinn and Donna Quinn-Perusse, and dear friend Elaine.

A funeral service was held November 24 at the Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel, Thunder Bay, with Rev. Ciaran Donnelly presiding. The interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

As expressions of sympathy, memorials to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. On-line condolences may be made at www.SargentAndSon.com.

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Gayle Mackay (Anderson)

Gayle Mackay (Anderson) passed away peacefully at her home Thursday, November 17, 2016.

Gayle was born June 5, 1941 in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, moving to Atikokan, Ontario as a young child. Later in life she moved to Peachland, BC and spent her final years as a resident of Fernie, BC.

Gayle was a person full of life, loved to laugh, and to be around lifelong friends and family. Gayle could be seen walking her dog, Elmo, that she loved dearly, a close companion for her. Gayle’s other interests were her love of horses, and she also loved drawing, as an artist.

She is survived by her daughters, Debbie (Wade) Heddon, Aaron (Bruce) Jardine, Faye (Leo) Grenier, and Marlene (Les) Craik, her sister Marlis Twerdun, brother Lorimer (Rebecca) Anderson, sister Lorraine (Roger) Bremault, and brother Danny (Lennette Howells) Anderson. She will also be missed by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Gayle has also touched the lives of many others who will miss her.

Gayle was pre-deceased by her daughter Brenda Clark Fleming, her mother Edythe and step-father Lawrence Anderson, her sister Arlene Gervais, her brother Robin Anderson, and her father Harold Radford.

Donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. On-line condolences may be made at www.CherishedMemoriesFS.com

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Henry Gagne

With deep sadness we announce the passing of Henry Joseph Gagne, 85, with his family by his side on November 23, 2016.

Henry was born in St. Anne, Manitoba in 1931. He married Irene Unger and moved to Atikokan in 1955 to start a family. He worked at Caland and Proboard. Henry was a generous, kind-hearted person and enjoyed doing home improvements and took great pride in his vehicles. His most valuable treasure in life was his family and he spent his golden years surrounded by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Henry is survived by his former wife, friend Irene, four children, Victor, Debbie, Sherry (Vernon), Tammy; nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his parents and nine siblings.

A funeral will be held at a later date in St. Anne, Manitoba.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society Ontario or Atikokan General Hospital Extended Care Wing.

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Jim Hogan

James Miles Hogan, 68, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on November 18, 2016.

Jim was a wonderful man with a big heart. He could find the good in everyone, and never held a grudge.

Jim was a great husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was a good friend to all.

Jim had a strong work ethic. He started work delivering flowers when he was nine, giving the money to his Mom to make house payments. He was very proud of his forty-nine years of work with the Town of Atikokan. He kept more information in his head than could be put on paper.

Jim is survived by his wife of 39 years, Helen, daughter Liz (Jim) Doornbos, and son Lee (Teddie-Ann) Hogan. He was the beloved grandpa of Kaitlin and Tyler Doornbos, and Kaya (Nick), Miley, and Aivery Hogan. He is also survived by sister Leona Meisner, brother-in-law Louis Jameus, many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Jim was pre-deceased by his parents Miley and Viola Hogan, sisters Kay (and Bill) McMillan, Fran (Alex) Hergott, Doreen (Tom) Jameus, Jean (Larry) Desbien, Joan Jameus, and Vicki Hogan; nephews Todd Halwachs, Kenny Meisner, and Bradley Walker, and nieces Heather Walker and Lexy Kirk.

A memorial service was held November 24, at the Atikokan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. Honourary pallbearers were Hugh White, George Halemba, Todd Desaulniers, Doug Desaulniers, Tim Farmer, Dennis Lacosse, Jeff Sodke, and Colin Lindsay.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Jim’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Atikokan Faith Lutheran Church.

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Bruce Roszell

Bruce Douglas Roszell, 74, passed away peacefully at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital on Friday, December 2, 2016.

Bruce was born on June 9, 1942. His family moved to Atikokan in 1954. After finishing school at Atikokan High, he worked at various mining locations both here and in British Columbia. After residing in Thunder Bay and Mine Centre, he returned to Atikokan in the 1980s and was employed as a hunting and fishing guide at McCauley Lake Resort.

Bruce always loved the outdoor life and lived happily at his cabin on Chubb Lake for many years. He moved to the seniors’ apartments on River Road a number of years ago. There, gardening was his main interest; he was active in planting and maintaining the tenants’ common garden areas. Anyone passing his apartment patio could see evidence of his green thumb in the lush variety of his many planters. He also initiated a Saturday morning get-together over coffee in the common room where family members and friends were also invited to gather. Bruce was a big help to the other residents in large and small ways and many have expressed their gratitude.

Bruce served for two years on the board of the Atikokan Native Friendship Centre. He enjoyed getting around on his scooter which he always decorated for Canada Day. Although many family members lived at a distance, he really enjoyed their visits and maintained close family ties.

Bruce is survived by his three sisters: Sheron Suutari (Atikokan), Beth Hogan (St. John’s, Newfoundland), and Bonnie Roszell (Galliano Island, B.C.), as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was pre-decesased by his parents, Ross and Iris Roszell, and his brother Craig.

As per Bruce’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Should friends so desire, donations may be made to the Atikokan General Hospital Foundation.

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William Arthur Blanchard

William Arthur Blanchard, 80, of Atikokan, passed away with family by his side on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Atikokan General Hospital.

William was born on May 9, 1936 in Emo, Ontario, to William and Adeline Blanchard; he spent most of his life in Atikokan. He worked for both local mines, finishing his career at ProBoard. He was a quiet man who enjoyed reading and was a long time member of the First Fellowship Baptist Church. He was united in marriage with Ester Roen on June 16, 1966. She was his life; Esther and their family meant everything to him.

He leaves behind his children JoAnne (Mike), Judy (Keith), Mary Anne, Morris, Allen (Sandy), and Jeanne; grandchildren Mark, Dylan, Chynna, Micheal, Bryan, Roxanne, Keith Jr., Don Jr., Brooke, William, Steven, Alana, and Joseph; numerous great grandchildren; sister Darleen (Gerry) Woolsey; sister-in-law Susan Blanchard, and many nieces and nephews.

William was pre-deceased by his parents William and Adeline, wife Esther, sister Illo MacIntyre, and brother Gerald Blanchard.

A memorial service was held December 16 at the First Fellowship Baptist Church in Atikokan, with Reverend Duncan Adams officiating.

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment in Little Falls Cemetery will take place at a later date. The pallbearers will be all of his grandchildren; the honourary pallbearer will be George Gurnett.

If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the First Fellowship Baptist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Russ Waldie

With sadness, the family of William Russell Waldie announces his passing Friday, December 23, 2016 at Hogarth Riverview Manor, Thunder Bay.

Born May 26, 1919 in Roblin Manitoba, Russ spent his early years on the Waldie farm near Holmfield, Manitoba. With the outbreak of WWII, he joined the RCAF and was overseas for two years (1942-44) serving as a navigator, flying sorties in Britain, Ireland, and Burma.

He married his wife Hazel August 2, 1942 and after the war they settled in Atikokan, Ontario, where they raised their three children. Russ was an active member of the community, involved in the United Church, Kiwanis, the Legion, and developing the Atikokan Ski Hill. He loved skiing and flying having co-owed a small airplane. He worked for North American Lumber, Investors Group and was manager of the Atikokan Airport before he and Hazel retired to Comox, BC. They enjoyed the warmer climate and making new friends. Russ was active in the church and enjoyed singing in the choir. He both downhill and cross-country skied at Mount Washington well into his eighties.

His real passion in life was his music. From his teen years when he learned to play the piano, he was involved in playing for dances, in Manitoba, in Atikokan, and in Comox/Courtenay. He also played the trumpet and was called upon to play Taps at Remembrance Day services both in Atikokan and in BC. Even into his later years he continued to play at seniors’ homes with his other band members.

Because of increasing dementia, he moved to Thunder Bay in 2012 to an apartment at Chartwell Select. He entertained other residents there playing the baby grand piano in the dining room. Others would join him around the piano and sing well-loved songs of the past. After moving to Hogarth Riverview Manor in March 2016, he continued to play the piano. Unfortunately, after a broken hip and a stroke in the past year, his life took a downward turn. Unable to play at the piano very well, he still enjoyed singing along as best he could to songs from his song book.

He is survived by his children Brent (Kathryn) of Surrey, BC, Douglas of Nym Lake (Atikokan), and Adele (Robin) Crowley of Thunder Bay; six grandchildren Cameron of Shirley BC, Amanda (Ryan) of Toronto, Megan (Brad) of Caledonia, NS, Sean of Vancouver, James of Toronto, and Brent of Kingston; and four great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister-in-law Ellen of Winnipeg, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his wife Hazel in 1998, a sister Janet in infancy, three brothers Dave, Bob, and Murray, and sisters-in-law Madelaine and Dorothy.

Cremation has taken place and interment of his ashes will take place in Manitoba at a later date. Should friends desire, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated. Please sign the online condolences at EverestOfThunderBay.com

His music has stopped but the memory of it will live on in many hearts.

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James Henry Adams

James Henry Adams, 71, passed away peacefully with family by his side in the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre on Saturday, December 17, 2016.

James was born on September 2, 1945 in Fort Frances, Ontario. He moved to Atikokan in 1954 where he attended elementary and high school. His career took him into mechanics for heavy equipment.

Jim was a good man in every way with a great sense of humour. He loved his cabin at Rainy Lake, spending time with his family, travelling, and his greatest joy was his dog Dusty. In the early years he raced stock cars and snowmobiles, winning numerous trophies.

Jimbo will be sadly missed by his stepchildren: Terry (Robinson) and Charlie Rounds of Fort Frances, Billy and Dwayne Robinson of Cranbrook, BC, and Tracy (Robinson) and Dwayne DeGagne of Fort Frances; numerous nieces, nephews, grandchild and great grandchild; and brother-in-law Jack Russow.

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his sister Linda (George) Telge, niece Vanessa Adams, niece Holly Adams (all of Saskatoon, SK), nephew Jamie (Garda) Knorr, niece Janice Knorr, Karen (Regan) Bolduc (all of of Thunder Bay), and nephew Kevin (Andreja) Knorr of Vancouver.

He was pre-deceased by his spouse Monique Robinson, both parents James and Anna Adams, brother William Adams, sister Carol Knorr, sister-in-law Rajanne Russow, and Monique’s parents Evelyn and Ernie Toffan.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Online condolences to Jim’s family may be made at www.HarbourviewFuneral.ca

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Florence Verin

With great sadness, the family of Florence Lillian Verin (née Goode) announces her passing at Wilson Memorial General Hospital in Marathon, Ontario on December 28, 2016 at the age of 84.

Florence was born in London, Ontario on March 22, 1932, the youngest of seven siblings. At age 18 Florence moved to northern Ontario, eventually settling in Atikokan and marrying her husband Alfeo on May 12, 1962. They were happily married for 48 years until his passing in 2010.

They lived in Atikokan for 25 years where they raised their children and enjoyed many good times with the Campagnolos and other good friends. In 1985 they moved to Marathon for work at Hemlo, then to Manitouwadge in 1997 on their retirement. They lived there for ten years where Florence was a member of the Golden Age Club. To be closer to family they returned to Marathon in 2007. Florence enjoyed playing cards, hunting, fishing, bowling, dancing, and being surrounded by family and friends.

Florence is survived by her daughter Wendy (Mike); sons Riccardo (Paula) and Dario (Nikki); grandchildren Kim (Mike), Janet (Brian), Rory (Babes), Jeffrey, Allison, Jeffrey, and Terry; great-grandchildren Shaina, Paige, Tyson, and Tristan; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was pre-deceased by her parents Lily and George; her siblings Rachel, Alice, Loretta, Reg, George and Fred; and her husband Alfeo.

As per Florence’s request, a private family memorial will occur at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Florence’s memory to your local hospital, or charity of your choice.

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Hilda Heist

The family of Hildegard Heist (née Hercher) is saddened to announce Hilda’s passing on December 26, 2016, at the Atikokan General Hospital, with her loving family by her side.

Hilda was born on June 27, 1921, to Cacilie and Eckhardt Hercher in Kalbach, Germany. She was raised in Kalbach, where she attended school and met Christian Bloesser. Hilda and Christian had two boys; Harold and Gerald. The unfortunate duties of war called Christian Bloesser and Eckhardt Hercher to task; neither returned home after the war ended.

In 1945, Hans Heist was released from the responsibilities of war and returned to Kalbach, where he grew up as a young man. Hans and Hilda were long time classmates. In 1950, Hilda was united in marriage with the love of her life, Hans Heist. Hilda and Hans lived in Bonames, Germany, until they immigrated to Canada in April, 1957, with their sons, Harold and Gerald. Hilda became a Canadian citizen on May 26, 1966.

Hilda and Hans settled in Campbellville, Ontario, where they built their home, which they enjoyed for many years. Hilda was the neighbourhood babysitter, and an active member of the Nassagaweya Women’s Institute, while Hans was a lathe operator, manufacturing crank shafts for large ships. In their sixties, Hilda and Hans, with their love of nature, would go on 200 mile canoe trips in Quetico Provincial Park.

In the fall of 1996, Hilda and Hans move to Thunder Bay, Ontario. On December 7, 1998, Hans passed away following a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Hilda was a long-time, active member of the Alzheimer’s Society of Thunder Bay.

Hilda loved being with her family, enjoying her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Hilda is lovingly remembered by son Gerald (Marcia), daughter-in-law Eleanor, grandsons Byron (Jodi), Vincent (Krisztina), and David (Janet); great-grandchildren Chantal (Jesse), Myranda, Krista (Nate), Maxwell, Nate, Aaron (Kristy) and Kristin (Andrew); and great-great-grandchildren Kellan and Isaac, as well as Nicola Richardson, whom she truly loved as her own “baby girl”.  Hilda will also be fondly remembered by friends and relatives in Canada and Germany.

Hilda was predeceased by husband Hans, son Harold and daughter-in-law Eva Bloesser. A funeral was held January 7; Hilda will be laid to rest, reunited with her husband Hans, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Thunder Bay. In lieu of flower, the family would like those who wish to honour Hilda’s life, to spend time with an elderly friend or loved one.

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Janet ‘Rae’ Goodman

Janet ‘Rae’ Goodman (née Weldon), 69, passed away peacefully with family by her side on December 24, 2016. She was born December 9, 1947 to the late Lorne and Wendy Weldon.

She was the loving mother of Patty (Dale), Lorne (Louisa), Bill (Tanya), and Lindsay (Cory), and will also be missed by grandchildren Brandon, Miranda, Kenzie, Katie, and Davis, and sisters Lois (Gerald) and Sandy (Dale). Rae was pre-deceased by her husband Louis, her sister Roberta, children Denise and Lindy, and grandson Grayson.

A memorial service was held at Oshawa Funeral Home Chapel, January 7. Memorial donations to the Lakeridge Health Foundation – Cancer Care (foundation@lakeridgehealth.on.ca) would be appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.OshawaFuneralHome.com.

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Connie Carlson

With very heavy hearts, the family of Connie Carlson, announce her passing on January 5, 2017 in Colborne, Ontario.

Connie was an only child, born in Winnipeg. Growing up, she was active in many things including music, dancing, and pageants (which she won). Her family eventually moved to Atikokan, where she met and married Dick and had her two cherished boys. Her family was her life.

Almost 50 years of fond memories and hard work (her energy and strength were endless) remain at Perch Lake, where much of her time was spent with Dick and her boys, and later her grandchildren. She worked many years at Canada Post, and will be remembered for her kindness and generosity to all who entered there. Family and friends will remember her most dearly for her love of letter writing, incredible cooking and delectable baking. And she could mend or make just about anything. She was a loyal, kind, beautiful, generous, loving person who always put others first. She will be missed by many, near and far, as she made friends and touched hearts wherever she went.

She sadly leaves behind Dick, her husband of 54 years, sons, Eric (Ingrid) and Rick (Nikki), and four beautiful granddaughters and two great-granddaughters.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place and a family service will be held at a later date. In her memory, please be kind to others and give to anyone in need.

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Irma Hicks

Irma passed away peacefully at the Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock, B.C. on December 27, 2016 in her 96^th year.

Irma enjoyed the outdoors and many family gatherings at their cottage in White Rock. She went on to graduate from the school of nursing at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria B.C., in 1943.

Irma’s interest in travel prompted her to venture east to Red Lake, Ontario, where a gold mine was being developed on Mckenzie Island, and they were in need of nurses. It is here where she met her future husband, Harold (Doc) Hicks. In 1946 they moved to Atikokan, where Doc was employed with Steep Rock Iron Mines. Here, Irma learned to curl, was involved with the church, hospital, and her family grew. Irma’s memories of camp life as a child prompted the purchasing of land and the building of a camp at Marion Lake.

Changes in employment led to the family moving to southwestern Ontario (Parkhill) and finally, Sault Ste. Marie. Irma continued to involve herself in the community and looked at a move in a positive way.

In 1974, Irma and Doc moved back to Marion Lake (Atikokan). During this time, Irma became more involved in the art of weaving. This resulted in her assisting in the designing and producing of the Atikokan tartan and later, her own creation, the Marion Lake tartan.

In 1985, her husband passed away. Not liking the winter cold of Ontario, Irma began spending her winters in White Rock and her summers at Marion Lake. When the journey was no longer enjoyable, Irma stayed year round at her home in White Rock, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Irma was pre-deceased by her parents, George and Jessie Gingell, husband Doc, and sister, Dorothy Lamb. She is survived by her children, Vern (Irene), Bradley (Ann), Clifford, Claudia (Ken), David, and grandchildren, Karlene, Eddie, Kevin, Keltie, and Sophie.

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George Riding

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of George Harold Riding, 81, of Atikokan, on Thursday, December 29, 2016.

George was born to Bert and Alice in Ericsdale, Manitoba on May 19, 1935. He grew up on the family farm with his three sisters and three brothers. In June of 1963, George married the love of his life Emily (Mullner). They started their life together in Lake Francis, Manitoba, where they had three sons. George ran Warren Transfer Trucking during this time.

The family moved to Atikokan in 1971 where George worked at Steep Rock Iron Mines until its closure. He retired from Atikokan Forest Products in 2000. In retirement, George and Emily spent many hours in their yard and garden. Emily passed in 2010; George never recovered from the loss, he was waiting for the day they would be reunited.

George is survived by his sister Mary Anne (Glen) of Woodlands, Manitoba, sons Brett (Sandy), Clint, and Randy, grandchildren David, Tim, Melissa, Miranda, Brody, and Hope, and great-grandson Brantley.

George was pre-deceased by wife Emily, parents Bert and Alice, sisters May and Lil, and brothers Bob, Jim, and John.

A memorial service was held at Riverview United Church on Saturday, January 7, 2017 with Susan Girard officiating. Internment will take place at  a later date. If so desired, donations in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

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