16 minute read
Homespun by Laurel Nadon
Wishing you A very M ry Christmas!
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From Bah humbug to fa-la-la
I have a confession to make. So far this Christmas season, I have been feeling a bit more Bah Humbug than Fa-la-la. I even looked up the dictionary description of Bah Humbug and it is “curmudgeonly displeasure,” which is maybe an exaggeration of my feelings. Christmas songs proclaim this to be the annual time when we must feel sunny and joyous. Lyrics say, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year. It’s the happiest season of all.” If I’m telling the truth, the older I get, the more that preparing for Christmas feels (prepare to gasp in shock) like a chore. It is a lot of work to complete the decorating, shopping, baking, wrapping, Christmas letters, and shop for a feast. I’ve spoken with moms in the last few weeks who have lost long-time pets, and a woman who recently lost her mother, who was her best friend, to cancer. For a lot of people, this can be a sad time of year.
An ongoing health problem has left me feeling less than ho-ho-ho and I resolved to do something about it. First, I started playing Christmas carols. All the time. I even found a radio station that plays non-stop Christmas. I have tried to wrap up my shopping so that I have more time to relax. I have hummed Christmas songs loudly while out and about, which has sometimes startled other shoppers when I come around a corner. I have volunteered my time to help others. We have made donations to help others. Still, no real Fa-la-la.
I hashed it out with a friend who expressed that I am not alone in feeling this way. She suggested that in the last two years due to Covid, parents were less busy without all of the kid activities. This is the first year that people have returned to activities, and now are maybe running out of time to relax and truly get into the spirit of the season. She suggested going to shows like the Nutcracker, Christmas plays, Disney on Ice, or driving around at night looking at Christmas decorations to get more into the spirit.
At home as I pondered this, my eyes spied a sign in my kitchen in bright letters that proclaims “Jesus is the reason for the season.” The Christmas story is such a story of hope, and can encourage us to treat each person we encounter with God’s love.
I was shopping one day and ran into a mom that I know. We stopped and chatted for several minutes, then discovered that we were both there to find the same item of clothing, and even the same size. I was looking for my son and she was looking for her nephew. We both started looking at opposite ends of the rack while we kept visiting. Then she found something that she thought her nephew would like–which also happened to be perfect for my son, with the sport he is passionate about on the front. We looked for a second one together with no luck. Without hesitating for even a second, she handed the clothing to me. She said that son trumps nephew and she had until Boxing Day, when she would be seeing him, to find something else. I was floored. I don’t know that I have ever experienced something that was so completely the essence of the Christmas spirit before. Giving when it is easier not to, and putting someone before yourself–that is Christmas. I left that store feeling so humbled by this mom’s kindness in the midst of such a busy season.
The next day, our family attended my youngest son’s elementary Christmas concert. I went to both the afternoon and evening shows just so that I could see him perform twice. I felt such Christmas spirit in that room, with so many children dressed their best, trying their hardest, and proudly showing off what they had learned. At the evening show, I smiled so hard that I could feel my eye twinkling, if such a thing is possible.
Merry Christmas from my home to yours–may you have more Fa-la-la days than not this holiday season!
Tormod Arthur “Art” Reiten
September 20, 1943 ~ December 12, 2022
Art Reiten was born on September 20, 1943 in Camrose, Alberta. He grew up in Camrose and, upon completion of high school, he embarked on an epic road trip that took a couple of friends and him all the way to Costa Rica and Panama in a Volkswagen bus. A year after working for the Alberta Forest Service, he enrolled at SAIT in the electronic technician program. He apprenticed under Cliff MacLeod and Hal Kjelland, both men having an impact on his professional and personal life. After completion of his apprenticeship, he worked for Campbell and Brasco. After a year of working there, Art bought the business and Reiten’s Radio and TV Centre was born. Art was known for his customer service, ensuring his customers were always well taken care of, and he was well respected within the profession. During the years that the shop was open, Art apprenticed a number of technicians.
In his youth, Art enjoyed racing stock cars and riding his motorcycles. In later years, his hobbies included fishing, camping, woodworking, chip carving, figure carving and vehicle restoration.
In 1968, Art met the love of his life, Ann, and they married in 1969, sharing 53 wonderful years together. In 1977, Art and Ann bought a piece of bare land outside of the Camrose City limits and turned that pasture into their “acreage oasis”, where they spent the rest of their married life together. He enjoyed all the yard work tasks that made the home and yard welcoming to all who came to visit.
On the acreage, Art’s love and care of animals, domestic and not quite domestic, was apparent. The farm boasted dogs, cats, rabbits, exotic chickens and ducks. His love of the animals led him to build and name special homes for some of the farm residents. He also cared for injured and the “not so smart” wild animals that came to call the acreage their home.
Travel was another enjoyment for Art. He especially enjoyed travel to visit his family and friends in Norway and Denmark, as well as visiting Ann’s family in the Netherlands.
Art was an unselfish husband, father and grandfather. He became a certified official/coach in both biathlon and ski jumping, sports in which Greta and Kristian competed. He cherished the time spent with family, especially his grandchildren Robert, Katrina and Geir. He thoroughly enjoyed picking saskatoon berries with the grandchildren, as well as teaching them other useful skills.
It has been said by many that there was nothing mechanical that he could not fix. Art was also known as a patient teacher, and there are many who have had the benefit of learning a skill or two from him.
Dad was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church for all of his 79 years, and was a man of quiet but devout faith. Throughout his cancer journey, he never lost faith that God would be with him and guide him throughout the difficult diagnosis. He was blessed to be cared for at home by Mom with the assistance of home care for most of his journey, and only spent the last few weeks under hospital care.
Art was very proud of his Scandinavian heritage and was a proud member of Sons of Norway and Torske Klubben. He was active at the Camrose Museum, the Railway Station, and the Wednesday Workers at Messiah Lutheran Church, until his health precluded his ability to join in and help at the Railway Station and at church on Wednesdays. When his health did not allow him to undertake tasks, he continued to enjoy coffee and fellowship with his friends at the church.
Art was known for his mischievous sense of humour, quick wit and his good-natured teasing – or “ribbing” as he called it – something that he was still doing right up until his passing.
Left to cherish Art’s memory are his wife Ann; children Greta (Geoff) and Kristian (Jill); and his three grandchildren. He will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace and joy with God.
A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, December 19, 2022 at Messiah Lutheran Church with Rev. Bev Swanson officiating.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Art’s memory may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church, the Camrose Food Bank, or to a charity of one’s choice.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
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Antje (Ann) Verbaas (nee Poelstra)
August 6, 1936 ~ December 14, 2022
Antje was born in Winsum, Friesland, The Netherlands and immigrated to Canada in 1951 at the age of 15, along with her parents and siblings. Her early life was adventurous with trips abroad, a brief stint at modelling and her own sports car. She attended nursing college, and while working in Brockville, Ontario, met and married George Verbaas in 1967, and became mother to Wendy, Alice and John. Isaac completed the family in 1973. While busy raising her family, she continued to work, and to produce amazing works of embroidery, knitting, sewing: her fabric talents were many. After being widowed in 1989, she remarried to Harold Westendorp in 1998. She was widowed again in 2010.
In 2013, she made the courageous decision to move across the country to be closer to her grandchildren, and made a new home in Camrose, Alberta. She became an active member in her church, The Church of God in Camrose, and brought her amazing quilting talents to the Battle River Quilters’ Guild. Many were blessed to receive her works of art.
She was fiercely independent and lived on her own until the age of 84. After a short stay in care, Antje passed peacefully with her children at her side.
Antje is survived by her four children Alice Verbaas (Myron Zurawsky), John Verbaas (Lori Rees), Wendy Verbaas (Phil Hunt) and Isaac Verbaas; and her three grandchildren Ethan, Nolan and Sage Verbaas. She is also survived by her two siblings John (Jan) Poelstra (Rina) and Nelly Poelstra.
Antje is predeceased by her parents Jochem and Hipkjen Poelstra; and siblings Fred, Betty, Jane, Pieter, Shirley and Liz; and her husbands George and Harold.
Eternal thanks to the loving care she received from the staff at Rosehaven. A memorial service is being planned for the new year.
IN LOVING MEMORY
At home in Heaven, but always in our hearts With love from your family
Laverne Hoveland Faith (Hoveland) Kut Experience and Expertise
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FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURSM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS
As we refl ect on the past year, we are truly grateful for the trust and confi dence you have placed in us, and for the gift of your friendship. May faith and love light your heart, home and spirit during the holiday season and throughout the new year.
www.weberfuneralhome.ca 780-672-3131
Vera Lynne Andersson (nee Freindorf)
February 16, 1961 ~ October 14, 2022
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our dear sister, mother and grandmother Vera.
Vera is survived by her son Gunnar Leiren; daughter-inlaw Jen; grandchildren Emerson and Freya; brothers Ed and Robert and families; and sisters Catherine, Sharon, Angela, Penny, Jeanne and their families; and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Vera is now in the loving arms of her parents Leo and Jean Freindorf; and her sister Cynthia Kemp.
Vera had a gift for life and a talent for making people feel welcome and part of the family. We will truly miss her joyous spirit and laughter.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
“Dance with the angels, Lynski”
Love your brothers and sisters
Lloyd Paul Badry
November 13, 1937 ~ December 6, 2022
Lloyd Paul Badry of Camrose, Alberta, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at the age of 85 years.
Lloyd was born in Galahad, Alberta, to Frank and Mary Badry. He was known to joke and make people laugh, as he liked to make people happy. He was very talented and liked to carve and paint lawn ornaments and give them away as gifts. He loved hunting, fishing, being outdoors, and helping out on his sister’s family farm/ ranch. He was a hard worker and worked for AGT/Telus for 25-plus years. After that, he ran his own trenching and Bobcat business.
Left to cherish his memory are his children Kevin Badry of Edmonton, Rory Badry of Edmonton, Brad (Lori) Badry of Edmonton, Lasqua Badry of Camrose, and Brandy Badry of Edmonton; and numerous grand- and great-grandchildren.
Lloyd was predeceased by his parents Frank and Mary Badry; his wife Ellen Paulsen; and siblings Phyllis Phillips, Audrey Kroetch, Marvin Badry, Victor Badry, Hildred Badry, Roger Badry, Allan Badry, and Les Badry.
A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, 3605-50 Street, Camrose with Father Kris Schmidt as celebrant.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Lloyd’s memory may be made to The Open Doors or to St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
Phone 780-672-2121 “Dedicated service since 1906”
The Family of Einar Fossen
…would like to extend a big thank you to everyone for their kind messages of sympathy, cards, flowers and food brought to the house; for the doctors, nurses and staff of Daysland Hospital; and everyone who attended the funeral. Thanks to Bart and Burgar Funeral Home for their help, to Rev. Brian Hunter, and to the pallbearers and honourary pallbearers. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.
Donald Mathias Zimmer
July 10, 1934 ~ December 12, 2022
Donald “Don” Mathias Zimmer of Daysland, Alberta, formerly of Spring Lake, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022 at the age of 88 years.
Donald (Donnie) Zimmer was born to George and Theresa (Wolbeck) Zimmer on July 10, 1934 on their family farm. He grew up as the eldest of ten children and, on November 7, 1956, married Nellie Orr. To this union, six children were born and they lived on Uncle Matt Zimmer’s farm, right across the road from his parents.
Times were tough, but they persevered with a mixed farming operation. In 1973, a dairy barn was built and they started shipping milk in 1974. The milk cows were sold in 2008, and he continued farming, raising grain and cattle with the help of his sons.
After his health started to fail, they moved into Providence Place in Daysland in April 2017. This was very upsetting to Donnie at first, but he soon settled in. His health was up and down for several years; he had many lives and he fought so hard to stay with us! On November 6, 2022, Donnie ended up in hospital for a week, but was never able to recover. His final wishes were granted as he passed away peacefully in his home on December 12, 2022, with his wife and family at his bedside.
Donnie’s greatest joys were his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, and they adored him. He loved to tease everyone – his family, his friends and eventually his caregivers. It was his way of showing his love and appreciation to all.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Nellie; daughter Joann Reinhart; daughter Patricia (Joe) Martz; son Bill (Joan) Zimmer; daughter Donna (Doug) Yuha; son James (Lorie) Zimmer; daughter Cheryl (Mark) Sieben; as well as 22 grandchildren, their spouses and 28 great-grandchildren; siblings Ken (Betty), Gordie, Garry (Marvis), Bobby (Pat), Sharon (Terry) Adams, Theresa (Allan) McTavish; and in-laws Ross Heck, Janet Zimmer and Carol Zimmer.
Donnie was predeceased by his parents George and Theresa Zimmer; granddaughter Sarah Dawn Reinhart; sister Eileen Heck; brothers Lorne and Jack Zimmer; and sister-in-law Donna Zimmer.
A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 19, 2022, at Our Lady of the Prairies Roman Catholic Church, Daysland, AB, with Father Danial D’Souza as the celebrant.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to the Stollery Children’s Hospital, Canadian Blind Hockey, or Providence Place, Daysland.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
Phone 780-672-2121 “Dedicated service since 1906”
The Jeanne Campbell Family
…would like to thank all of their friends, neighbours and extended family for their kind words and support on Jeanne’s passing. Thank you for the donations, both monetary and floral, given in her memory.
Special thanks to Pastor Gary Aiken, CityLights Church, Bart and staff of Burgar Funeral Home, and those involved with making the funeral service the nice tribute it was.
