18 minute read
Kodiaks players look ahead
By Lori Larsen
As most Camrose Kodiaks players will attest, having the opportunity to play for a Junior A hockey team is an honour in itself and validates the hard work and dedication they have put in to their sport. However, reaping the rewards has the potential to go even further, when they are fortunate (and talented) enough to be scouted to play at college/university level and receive scholarships for their continued education.
Three such Kodiaks players, centre Ryan Sullivan, forward (left/right wing, centre) Callum Gau and defence Cooper Sharp, recently found out their futures, in hockey and continuing studies, will be secured with universities in the United States.
Ryan
Ryan committed with Colgate University located outside of Hamilton, New York, USA and will be beginning his time there in September of 2023. Excited to be moving forward with both his hockey and academics (majoring in Business/Economics four year program), Ryan said he was happy to be given this opportunity.
“It is such a great program to be joining.”
Ryan was recruited by coaches and staff of Colgate, that attend games or showcases scouting out talent to play on their school team. “They watched and they must have liked the way I play,” laughed Ryan. But while it took talent playing hockey to get him there, he will also be focusing on his academics. “My family is super academic and that was a big part of choosing Colgate. It is such an academic school it is the perfect match of hockey and academics for my family.”
Ryan moved with family from Eastern Canada to Calgary when he was around four and has lived there ever since. This is his third year playing with the Kodiaks.
Having played hockey since the very young age of five, Ryan aspires to one day play pro, but ultimately wants to be able to play as long as he is able. “I love hockey.”
Both Ryan and his younger brother Nathan play for the Kodiaks and while they aren’t necessarily from a long line of hockey playing family, Ryan said that his father did play a little bit in high school. “My brother and I we’re kinda the first.”
His mother and father have been very supportive of the boys hockey and continue to be proud fans showing up for games every where they can.
Outside of his parents, Ryan said one of the other people who has had positive influence on him is NHL player Sidney Crosby. “I grew up watching him and I idolized the way he played hockey. He did everything the right way.”
Which is exactly what Ryan is making every effort to do, on and off the ice. On this particular evening Ryan, along with fellow players Callum and Cooper, was volunteering serving the community at the Moose Hall free spaghetti supper.
“Realizing just how lucky I am be involved in this sport, it is a big opportunity to play for a Junior team and also be able to go to school (post secondary), giving back to the community is super
important for me.”
When not playing during the season Ryan tries to spend a little time away from the arena, which he admits is hard because he loves being on the ice. “I work out with a group of my friends and enjoy spending some time at the Lake Koocanusa in BC.”
He also works at a golf course and coaches hockey for youth. “I really love coaching younger players.”
Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster
Camrose Kodiaks players, left to right, Cooper Sharp, Callum Gau and Ryan Sullivan volunteered at the free Wednesday night Spaghetti Supper on November 9 as a way of giving back to the community.
Callum
Hometown boy Callum Gau has committed to, believe it or not, Augustana University, this one in Souix Falls, South Dakota, USA for the fall semester of 2023.
“I talked to the Augustana Souix Falls assistant coach at the showcase in Blackfalds, all the teams in the league were there that weekend so it was a good chance for the scouts to come and watch.” And apparently what they saw in Callum they liked so conversations progressed over the next little while leading to Callum being offered and accepting a position with the school team and as a student in business studies.
“As a 20-year-old you definitely want to talk to as many schools and Augustana showed the most interest.”
Callum feels that Sioux Falls will be a more natural progression for him, going from smaller city atmosphere of Camrose to being away from home the first time (for any length of time). “It’s bigger, but nothing crazy. Having lived in Camrose my whole life and playing hockey here, not going to a huge city or school will be best for me.”
Callum explained that next year (2023) will be
the first year Sioux Falls Augustana University will have this hockey organization, so he will be going in at ground level. “That was one of the reasons I chose to go there because they are bringing in people that they want to build their organization around.”
Unsure of where his hockey career will lead, Callum said that committing to Sioux Falls and playing college hockey will be the next step. “I’m not sure if that would be the end (of a more professional level of hockey), but for right now, that is a long ways away and I have four years to focus on my schooling.”
Callum started playing hockey around the age of five, as soon as he could stand up on skates, and has been actively involved in other activities such as the Camrose Swim Club, as well. Along with his busy hockey schedule, he is currently a second-year apprentice electrician.
It, no doubt, will be difficult for Callum’s parents and perhaps older sisters to see him go so far away for school, but it is his 13-yearold brother that will likely miss him the most.
“I think he is excited–he is always asking questions. I think it is his dream, too, to kind of follow in the same footsteps, play hockey and go to school somewhere.”
Having played for the Kodiaks for five years now, Callum is very attuned to the importance of giving back to his community. “When we go to the schools to read books to the kids, that gets them excited and they want to come out to the rink.
“I remember growing up, and the Kodiaks would
come and read to us. That was a highlight of school. Camrose is a hockey town and a lot of the kids in school are coming up through minor hockey and the Kodiaks are the top team in the town and they are seen as role models. When they get to be around us it brightens everybody’s day,” said Callum adding that it is such a good feeling when they (Kodiaks) show up at a school and they get hugs from the young students.
When asked if there was a player he admired when growing up, Callum was quick to reply. “For sure, my dad. He was coaching and was a really good hockey player while growing up. He went and played college hockey in Red Deer. I always hear stories of how good he was and how hard he worked.” been fortunate enough to get a good jumpstart on his future in hockey and academics, having committed to Union University in New York, USA beginning in the fall of 2024.
“This is pretty exciting,” said Cooper. “Being from a small town like Camrose, going to a big city. The school isn’t right in New York, it’s a little bit outside. It’s a smaller feel, not super big, which is good for me.”
Union first saw Cooper play during an exhibition game at the beginning of the year and have been texting and telephoning back and forth since then, eventually offering him a scholarship for 2024/25. At this point, Cooper is considering studies in economic/business.
If you thought five was young to strap on skates and start playing hockey, then you are bound to be impressed with the fact that Cooper was only four when he took to the game. “None of my family played hockey, that is just what they decided to put me in.”
But he was hooked (no pun intended) right away and has loved playing the sport ever since. “I grew up watching the Kodiaks and my family actually billeted for 10 to 11 years.”
He said he never really watched a lot of hockey on television growing up, but did admire the way NHL player Ryan Smyth played.
Now settled into his first year playing for the Kodiaks, Cooper is quickly learning that with this incredible opportunity comes great responsibility both on the ice and off.
“The community and Kodiaks organization has done so much for me,” he said. “I have been given the opportunity to play, so it is nice to get out and give back, to be able to return that a little bit to the community.”
Joining his teammates in helping to serve community members at a free spaghetti supper held every Wednesday at the Moose Hall, it wasn’t hard for Cooper to see that every kind gesture is appreciated by someone.
One volunteer activity he finds particularly fun is being able to go to local schools to help out with younger students reading or assisting the school with events. “It’s fun to see my past teachers,” he smiled.
Having been involved in teams sports for almost his entire, albeit young, life, Cooper has come to realize the important lessons organized sports teaches to young people.
Continued on page 33
Gordon Bailer
On November 15, 2022, Gordon passed away surrounded by family. Born to Albert and Tillie Bailer in 1929, Gordon was raised on a farm east of Forestburg. Married to Irene McMahon in 1952, they had a strong and devoted marriage of over 70 years. He was a deeply committed farmer, with an immense work ethic. Often he worked from before sunrise to after sunset to provide for his family. Once the Railview Hereford cattle were dispersed, grain farming became the focus. He was always keen to know canola prices or the state of the harvest, even after he and Irene sold the farm in 1991 and moved to Camrose. Road trips to survey crop conditions around Forestburg were a ritual.
Gordon was a passionate fan of the Montreal Canadiens and of Stampede chuckwagon races. We marvelled at his ability to do calculations in his head and at his excellent memory.
Gordon is survived by his wife Irene; their children Larry (Carol), Marilyn, Dwayne (Laurie), Bonnie (Allan), and Joanne; as well as six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by grandson Adam.
Gordon will be greatly missed by all for the twinkle in his eye, the kindness in his heart and the depth of his wisdom.
Thank you to Dr. Minders, the MAID team and the Unit 2 staff at St. Mary’s Hospital for their compassionate care.
At his request, there will be no service.
Any donations on his behalf may be made to the Alzheimer Society or the charity of one’s choice.
Dean David Miller
With great sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved Dean, at the age of 61 years. Dean David Miller of Heisler, AB, and formerly Grande Prairie, AB, was born on October 27, 1961 and passed away on November 11, 2022. Left to mourn are his loving common-law wife Dorraine (Doe) Wassenaar; stepsons Daniel (Alyssa) Lindstrom of Kelowna, BC and Mark (Jadanna) of Kelowna, BC; his mother Sharon Harris of Beaverlodge, AB; nieces Kristie (Mitch) Miller of Sooke, BC and Melissa (Lance) Miller of Grande Prairie, AB; as well as four great-nephews, one great-niece, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
He was predeceased by his brothers Shaun and Lindsey; stepfather Trevor Harris; and father George.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Daysland Health Centre (5920-51 Avenue, Box 27, Daysland, Alberta T0B 1A0).
Major Fred Clark Ret.
Major Fred Clark Ret. of Camrose, Alberta was born on May 15, 1935 at St. George, New Brunswick. He passed away on November 15, 2022 in Camrose, at the age of 87 years.
He is survived by his wife Audrey; children Michael, Marty (Laura) and Marshall (Sandy); three grandsons; three granddaughters; one greatgrandson; sister Juanita (George) Oickle; and numerous family and friends.
Fred was predeceased by his two daughters Karen and Katherine; brothers Jim, Ellison, Sandy and George; and sisters Mary and Lilie.
Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Wayne Jones
Wayne Jones of Edmonton, Alberta was born in Tofield on May 29, 1952. He passed away in on November 14, 2022, at the age of 70 years.
He is survived by his brothers Douglas (Marilee) of Tofield and Randy (Barb) of High River; sister Patricia (Mark) Kinahan of Edmonton; and numerous family and friends.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, the Alberta Lung Association or to the local charity of one’s choice.
Shirley Janet Johansen
June 27, 1937 ~ October 21, 2022
Shirley Janet Johansen of Camrose, Alberta, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2022, at the age of 85 years. She is no longer in our life to share, but will always be our hearts. Left to cherish her memory are her children Teresa (Kenneth) Krause, Brenda Wold, Liz (Ted) Cole, Steven Heisler, Robert (Glenda) Heisler, and Dale (Kelly) Johansen; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; brothers Allan and Walter Kerr; sister-in-law Marj Sjogren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life was held on November 2, 2022.
Special thanks to the staff at Hawthorn Louise Jensen, Rev. Brian Hunter and Cam Parker.
Dale Robert Jobb
Dale Robert Jobb of Camrose, Alberta was born on January 18, 1956 at Lloydminster, SK. He passed away on November 12, 2022 in Camrose, at the age of 66 years.
He is survived by his loving family and friends.
Cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will take place.
Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Sarcoidosis Organization.
Sarah Elizabeth Crispin
Sarah Elizabeth Crispin of Tofield, Alberta was born on October 12, 1942. She passed away on November 8, 2022 at Tofield, at the age of 80 years.
She is survived by her loving family and friends.
Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Bernard Charles Beadle
September 7, 1942 -
November 13, 2022
Bernard Charles Beadle of Bittern Lake, Alberta, passed away on Sunday, November 13, 2022, at the age of 80 years.
Left to cherish his memory his wife Isabel; daughter Barb Siemens of New Norway; grandchildren Jacob, Matthew, and Katelyn Siemens; and siblings Myrna (Bob) Scott of Swan River, MB, Val (Jack) Stillborn of Swan River, MB, and Larry (Barb) Beadle of Bowsman, MB.
Bernard was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Winona Beadle.
No formal service will be held.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Bernard’s memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
Phone 780-672-2121 “Dedicated service since 1906”
Olga Szott
Olga Szott was born March 26, 1930 to Ed and Rose Rogoski. The family lived on a farm near Daysland. Olga was the second of eight children. Olga was a natural born designer. Every place she lived in and all of her clothing reflected her love of glamour. One of Olga’s first childhood memories was making sunglasses out of wire and turning her bedroom into something beautiful, despite having no money. With this talent for aesthetics, Olga created a beautiful home and life for her husband Joe and daughter, Laurie.
Although she brought beauty into her life, she worked hard, first on her parent’s farm until the age of 17. In 1947, she married Josef Szott and they started their adventure together. She got jobs at the Daysland Café and Daysland Hospital in the laundry department. After that, she worked at the Daysland Pharmacy.
Olga and Josef retired to Camrose in 1987.
Left to cherish the memory of her love is her daughter Laurie and son-in-law Robert Rogers; sisters Alex Szott and Margaret Miciak, (Brian); and brother Ken Rogoski (Laura). Also left behind are some dear sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved Josef in 2012; and siblings Anne, Helen, Albert and Stanley.
The last few years of her life, Olga suffered from osteoporosis, which caused great pain and limited her movement. Thanks to the fantastic and caring staff at Seasons and Dr. Slabbert for the help and kindness they provided. Thanks to all of the family (especially Margret) and friends who brought Olga joy and love throughout her life.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church.
Memorial donations may be made to the St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church.
UZELMAN, Judy Stanies
June 28, 1944 ~ November 11, 2022
It is with great sadness and much love that our family announces the passing of Judy Uzelman (nee Peterson) on November 11, 2022. Judy was born in Melfort, Saskatchewan on June 28, 1944, and married Harvey on May 22, 1965. She was predeceased by her parents, Bernice and Stanley Peterson; and sister, Betty Schreiner.
Judy will lovingly be remembered by her husband of 57 years, Harvey; and their children, Whitney, Tyler (Carolyn) and Darcel; nine grandchildren, Danna, Maddie, Olivia, Chloee, Hannah, Ethan, Caleb, Terry, and Brooks; one great granddaughter, Hadley. Judy will also be remembered by her brother, Walter Peterson (Beverly); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Growing up, Judy went to school in Naicam, Saskatchewan, then attended the University of Saskatchewan. Judy was a teacher first in Neilburg, Saskatchewan, and finished her career in Camrose, teaching at St. Patrick School.
A Celebration of Life will take place in April. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Judy may be made to Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton.
Honoured to Serve the Uzelman Family Baker Funeral Chapel 780.352.2501 or 888.752.2501 Condolences: www.womboldfuneralhomes.com
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Kore Bohmer
January 19, 1923 ~ November 12, 2022
Kore Bohmer of Daysland, AB, formerly of Bawlf, AB, passed away peacefully with Brenda by his side on Saturday, November 12, 2022, at the age of 99 years. Kore was born in Faberg, Norway on January 19, 1923. Along with his family, he emigrated from Norway in 1929, arriving by ship at Pier 21 in Halifax, and then continuing by train to Bawlf.
Through the depression in the 1930s, the Bohmers moved and rented three different farms until they were able to purchase the farm in 1945. Kore attended school at Allied, Acme and Hartland Schools. He began helping his dad work the fields with horsedrawn equipment at nine years of age. Kore met Lil while visiting the Loken farm which was a half mile away. They were married on July 31, 1949, and were blessed with two children: Calvin in 1952 and Brenda in 1957.
Kore was an avid outdoorsman, fisherman and hunter. He was involved in various organizations including the Bawlf 4-H Club, Bawlf Boy Scouts, Camrose Rifle & Revolver Club, Rose City Amateur Radio Club (VE6 KOR), Bawlf Curling Club and the Bawlf Lutheran Church.
Motorbiking became a passion for Kore in the 1980s. For several years, Kore and Lil often jumped on the Harley and headed down the road for an ice cream! Kore rode until the age of 86.
Kore and Lil retired from farming and moved to Bawlf in 1991. They joined the Bawlf Seniors’ Club, where Kore regularly played snooker. In 2012, they moved to Providence Place in Daysland. Lil passed away in 2013, and Kore continued to live in Daysland. He passed away peacefully, with Brenda by his side, on November 12, 2022, at the age of 99 years.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Brenda; sister-in-law Ella Thompson; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family in Norway; special friends Madeline Blumhagen, Jan Proctor, and Lynn Horbasenko; and special great-great-nephew Kore Smith (a.k.a. Little Kore). Kore was predeceased by his wife Lil; his son Calvin; his sister Ragnhild Olsen; and his parents Herman and Margit Bohmer.
The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Providence Place and the Daysland Hospital for the compassionate care they provided Kore.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
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