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Vulcan Funeral Home, 227 Centre Street, Vulcan, AB (2026)

06/01/2026

Marianne Majewski (Grandma) Marianne Majewski, lovingly known as "Grandma," passed away on the
morning of May 20, 2026 at the age of 91.

Marianne emigrated to Canada in her twenties and called Calgary home. She was an avid Flames fan
who would often say, "I'll call you back" whenever a game was on. When the score wasn't in their
favour, she would comment on how they should turn the net around.

Determined and hardworking, Marianne started her own cleaning company, Marianne's Janitorial
Service, to support herself and her family. Over the years, she built a loyal client base, and many
of those relationships grew into lasting friendships. What began as work often became opportunities
to visit, share stories, and enjoy a cup of coffee. She continued working well into her seventies
before retiring.

Marianne's laugh was infectious and would fill the room. She loved her family deeply. Although her
kitchen was just large enough for a table and a few chairs, there was always room and plenty of
food for family dinners. She made sure everyone had "had enough" before insisting they leave the
dishes behind because she "needed something to do." Her stubborn streak was well known and lovingly
accepted by those who knew her best; once Grandma had made up her mind, it was usually easier to
smile and let her have her way.

Her strength, compassion and generosity touched everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable way of
ensuring no one was ever left out. Most recently, during her weekly pizza lunches with her daughter
Jane, she made sure a fellow resident was always included in the order.

Marianne will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her daughter Jane (Rick), granddaughter
Jennifer (Mike), and great-grandchildren Fleurie and Wyatt, as well as her many friends and family
members.

Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma You were the heart of every room, Every smile, every story shared.
We saw how deeply you cared.

You taught us strength, you showed us grace, And left a warm and lasting trace.
Though we must say a temporary goodbye, Your love lives on and lights the sky.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff and residents of Silver Willow
Lodge in Nanton for their care, kindness, and compassion.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

05/15/2026

Gerard (Gerry) Patrick McAuley, 77, of Vulcan County Alberta peacefully passed into eternity on May 13, 2026.

Gerry was born March 10, 1949, in Montreal the youngest child of loving parents. As a child he enjoyed playing football in the streets of Rosemount and St. Marie. Early on he developed an intense fondness of reading demonstrating an incredible memory for history, music and film. He spent many Saturday afternoons viewing movies at the local theatre when one dollar bought a double feature. From a very young age he played the role of peacemaker, on the playground and later as an adult. His easy manner and sense of humour often resulted in turning the heat down in a conflict. In Montreal he developed a lifelong passion for smoked meat sandwiches, steamie hotdogs and the only hockey team that mattered; The Montreal Canadiens.

After a couple of years in university studying journalism, he decided to make use of his strong vocal ability and love of music. In 1973 he moved to Stephenville Newfoundland and began his career as a radio announcer. There he married and started a family. In 1979 they moved to Fort McMurray Alberta where he worked as an operator at the Suncor Refinery. He especially enjoyed camping with his sons David and Ryan. A natural performer, he often told amusing stories of his time working with the interesting characters in the Oil and gas industry. After 23 years of frigid weather and night shifts he retired from Suncor in March 2003 and moved to Canmore Alberta. There he found his true calling as an actor, performing in many theatre productions with Pine Tree Players, Theatre Canmore and Morpheus Theatre. He often spoke of the great joy he received working with fellow actors, especially the friendship of many talented young people. He also was an active volunteer for many years with the Canmore Folk Festival and the Canmore Friends of the Library. He continued his love of music by attending musical festivals throughout Alberta. In 2020 he moved from Canmore with his friend and companion Melanie DesRoches and after a year in Nanton, they settled on a regenerative ranch in Vulcan County. Gerry adapted quickly from being a city boy to the rural life, especially operating the ride-on lawnmower and sitting in the sunshine with a glass of scotch, a cigar and the companionship of his beloved dogs Jack and Layla. He could, however, never be convinced to milk a goat. He enjoyed road trips to thrift shops and yard sales where he collected favourite movie DVDs, books and especially vinyl records, which he added to his impressive collection. Due to his powerful speaking voice, he was a favourite lector reader at his beloved church St. Andrew’s. He often joked that attendance at church was higher on the days he read. In winters he and Melanie enjoyed many wonderful trips to the warmer climates including Mexico, Europe, Florida and Hawaii.

He is predeceased by his father Bernard McAuley and his mother Emma McAuley née Shannon and survived by his friend and companion Melanie DesRoches, his ex-wife Geri Pretty, sons David McAuley (Olivia Olsen), Ryan McAuley (Patty Martin), Stepsons Jeremy DesRoches (Julie Tran DesRoches), Andrew DesRoches, grandchildren Gabriel and Miyla, extended grandchildren Sierra, Malyek, and Jaxon and brothers Steven McAuley (Myrna) and Brian(Paula) and their children Alanna, Sonja, Carrie and Kieran.

Gerry will be forever remembered as a loving, joyful and talented brother, father, grandfather and friend. May he rest in peace and may his soul be welcomed into the arms of God.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday May 20, 2026, 11 am St Andrew's Catholic Church 390 1 St S, Vulcan Alberta. Reception to follow in church hall. Internment at 1 pm Vulcan Cemetery.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

05/07/2026

Sharon Margaret Brinton,
1943 - 2026

Sharon Margaret Brinton was born in Calgary on March 18, 1943, to Edwin & Katherine Wright.

Sharon met Earl Brinton on a blind date in April 1962, fell in love and were married on August 17, 1962. They had their first child Debra in July 1963, and Vern completed their family in 1964.

Earl and Sharon made many places home. From Vulcan County to the Yukon, Olds, Calgary & Hanna. While living in Olds in 1973, Sharon went back to school at Mount Royal College at the age of 30. She earned her certification in secretarial arts.

In 1978, Earl & Sharon moved their family to Calgary where they started a ceramics business. A year later they moved back to Vulcan and opened a second location. During this time Sharon was hired to teach Lace Draped Dresden doll making at Mount Royal College. She taught ceramics and Dresden doll making at both of her studios as well.

Sharon loved to sew and made several matching dresses/outfits for herself and her daughter. She used to hide in the spare bedroom sewing 100’s of barbie and doll clothes.

Sharon loved to dance. There were many dance parties in the Brinton household. Earl and Sharon enjoyed spending time together hunting, fishing and camping.

Earl & Sharon moved to Hanna in 1986 where they stayed until they retired in 2003. While in Hanna Sharon worked at the jewelry store where she was their top sales associate and she also did all of their engraving.

When Earl and Sharon retired, they sold their home in Hanna and hit the roads in their RV. They were snowbirds for many years eventually settling in Casa Grande, Arizona where they enjoyed their winters. While in Casa Grande, Sharon took up quilting. She has made 100’s of beautiful quilts, many of which she donated to local charities such as Ronald McDonald House, Children’s Hospital, South Health NICU and the Vulcan Community Health Centre’s Palliative Care Unit.

Sharon’s grandchildren were the light of her life. She was blessed with 3 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Sharon is survived by her husband Earl, Her daughter Debra (Garry) Orr, her son Vern (Doreen) Brinton, grandson Matthew (Staci) Orr, granddaughters Melissa (Nathan) Schmeelke and Cassandra (Weston) deWinter, as well as 9 beautiful great grandchildren – Brooklynn, Kadence and Rylan, Maddison, Carter & Claire and Loucetta, Lando and Odelle, her brothers Tim Wright and Vern (Verna) Wright as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Sharon is also survived by 3 step grandchildren Ashley (James) Gibbons, Chris Reeves & Cheyenne Leckner (Ethan Scott) as well as 1 step great grandchild Ayva Buehler.

Sharon was predeceased by her parents Edwin & Katherine Wright and her sister-in-law Judith Wright.

Sharon will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held Friday June 5 at 2:00 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion, Vulcan Alberta

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

05/05/2026

Diane Lynn (Williams) Heemskerk

April 3, 1958 – April 30, 2026

Diane Lynn Heemskerk passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, at the age of 68.

Diane will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Lee Heemskerk. She was predeceased by her parents, Hurley and Grace Williams, and her beloved niece, Judy Ashbacher. She is also survived by her siblings: Tom (Ruth) Williams, Brenda Kirkham (predeceased by her husband, Dave), and Gloria Williams, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews who brought her great joy.

Diane was actively involved with Calgary Special Olympics for over 30 years. She had a deep love for crafting of all kinds and took great pride in her outdoor plants, often saying she had a green thumb like her Granny Board. She tended to her plants with the same gentle care she showed to babies—earning her the title of a true “baby whisperer.” Diane also had a flair for the dramatic and a love of performing; she truly belonged on a stage, where she could wholeheartedly shine.

A service will be held at the Arrowwood Gospel Church at 2:00 p.m. on May 12, with a luncheon to follow at the Arrowwood Hall.

Diane will be remembered for her fun-loving spirit and her vibrant approach to life. In keeping with her wishes, attendees are encouraged not to wear traditional dark colours of mourning, but instead to wear bright colours in celebration of her life.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to do so may consider making a donation to Challenger Baseball—an organization Diane was passionately involved with for over 24 years, helping individuals with special needs experience the joy of playing baseball. Donations can be sent to challengerllcalgary@hotmail.ca

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

05/05/2026

Bill Charles Gooch
1924 - 2026

Bill was born October 6th 1924 living 101 years and 7
months, leaving us April 30th, 2026. Bill spent his
childhood in the Buffalo Hills area. After Grade 6, he was
off working and became an outrider for his Uncle Hank
Willard’s chuckwagon team. Horses and Rodeos were his
passion often winning several prizes for calf roping. Bill
married Dena McMorris in 1946 and they raised four
children Louise, Diane, Leo and Debra on a farm near
Milo. Bill became a grandfather to six brilliant
grandchildren and a great grandfather to five awesome
greats!

In retirement, Bill moved to Lethbridge where he forged
new friendships, walked the stunning coulees every
morning and went dancing several times each week.

Bill was known as a jokester, and once he tilted his cap,
everyone knew, he was “up to no good”!
Bill kept us all laughing right up to the finish line.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held.
condolences may be emailed to debrabates@shaw.ca

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

05/02/2026

Delmer Rae Huff
1949 - 2026

The family of Delmer Rae Huff are deeply saddened to acknowledge his passing on March 18, 2026 after battling some recent health issues.

Delmer was born on March 26, 1949 in Lethbridge, Alberta to Phyllis and Henry Huff of Lomond, Alberta.

He was loved and cherished by many, including his role as loving father to Raechelle Wuolle of Victoria, BC. He was “Grandpa Huff” to his three much-loved grandchildren- Rylan, Ariana and Bryson Wuolle. He was also a brother to Sherry Fernley (Ron), Bryan Huff, Lorraine Wolff, and Michael Huff (Terry). “Uncle Delmer” to several nieces and nephews.

Delmer was predeceased by his parents, his much-missed daughter Nadine (at the age of 16 in 1987), sisters-in-law Sharon Huff and Fay Huff, brother-in-law Henry Wolff, as well as niece Shannon and nephew Byran.

In his younger years, Delmer played ball and hockey- at one point he was on three hockey teams at the same time! He liked good rock and roll music, could do a mean jive, and loved nothing more than going out for a cruise in his meticulously kept vehicle of the day. After growing up and attending school in Lomond, Delmer married his high school sweetheart Linnette Tolsdorf in 1970 and they had two children together before separating in 1977. Delmer went on to pursue a career as a truck driver in the oil industry in Northern Alberta. He made Zama City his home for many years and had many great times with his life-long buddies up there! Besides his work and his love for driving, Delmer was into hunting, boating, fishing, camping and the odd trip out of the country to Mexico and the Dominican Republic. He liked a daily cup of tea and a good steak when he could get one! He was an avid TV watcher and subscribed to every available platform to watch his shows from his comfortable armchair. He looked forward to his yearly spring trips to the West Coast to see his daughter and grandchildren. He also enjoyed visits with family and friends and was always up for a good game of cards! Delmer greatly enjoyed family reunions and any reason to get together and reminisce about the good ol’ days!

Delmer was an absolute trooper in managing years of pain and discomfort from his spine disease (ankylosing spondylitis) as well as other health challenges that he consistently met with determination and resiliency. Unfortunately, our man of “nine lives” was overcome with illness just before his 77th birthday. He made it out of the ICU in Calgary and was able to go back to the comforts of home and catch up on some of his shows before he passed away peacefully in his sleep. Special thanks to his sister Lorraine Wolff, brother-in-law Ron Fernley, nieces Sharla Huff and Trina Huff, brother Bryan Huff, and cousin Wade Stokes for the extra care, attention and assistance in his hours of need. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and members of the community of Lomond where he had been retired for many years.

The family respects Delmer’s wishes to not have "all the fuss" of a formal funeral. However, a Celebration of Life is being held in Lomond on June 27, 2026 in the afternoon from 2:00-5:00 pm at the Drop-in Centre. All who knew Delmer are welcome to join the family in celebrating Delmer with your stories and memories. Casual dress is recommended. No flowers or gifts, just your presence.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

04/30/2026

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we share the peaceful passing of Donald Keith Miller, age 93, of Carmangay, AB, who left this world on April 20, 2026, after valiant efforts battling cancer and illness for over 6 ½ years. He passed peacefully with his devoted wife at his side surrounded by love at the Vulcan Alberta Hospital.

Born on October 12, 1932, in Carmangay to Kenneth and Alice Miller, Donald was a quiet, gentle soul whose steady presence and quiet dedication touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He remained faithfully rooted in the Carmangay community his entire life, a place he loved dearly and where he became a quiet pillar of strength, kindness, and unwavering support throughout the community.

Donald had a deep respect for learning and hard work. In 1951, he earned his Agricultural Mechanics Diploma from the Institute of Technology & Arts in Calgary—a testament to his commitment to the land and the life he cherished. Around the same time, he served with honor as a member of the Calgary Highlander Reserve "Black Watch" regiment from 1951 to 1957, a role that reflected his quiet sense of duty and love for his country.

In 1957, love found Donald when he married Doreen Robinson, a confident and compassionate nurse who had come from Britain just a year earlier to serve the Carmangay community. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three sons and operating a mixed farm of grain and cattle. Their partnership was one of mutual respect, warmth, and devotion. Donald retired from farming in 2006, but his love for the land never faded.

Beyond the fields and fences, Donald had a warm and joyful heart. He treasured time with family and friends, especially lively gatherings around a campfire or social event. He and Doreen loved to travel, exploring many places around the world, always returning home with stories and smiles. Donald was known for quietly showing up whenever a hand was needed—whether fixing a neighbor’s fence, lending a tool, or simply offering a kind word. He balanced his love for community with the hard work of building the family farm, and he did it all with humility and grace.

Donald gave generously of his time to the community he held so dear. He served on the Fire Protection Association, the Lions Club, the Recreation Board, and for many years as a beloved Scouts master, helping young boys grow into good men. He was a volunteer on the Rural Electrical Association board, ensuring that rural properties had power and care, even in the darkest hours. He was also a proud and active member of the Progressive Conservative Party, believing always in the value of community and country.

Donald leaves behind a family who will carry his gentle strength in their hearts forever: his devoted spouse and best friend, Doreen; his loving children, Michael (Debbie), Colin (Michele), and Richard (Pamela); six grandchildren (who held a special place in Grandpa’s heart); and five great-grandchildren, each of whom knew the warmth of his smile.

He has now been reunited with those who went before him: his parents, Kenneth and Alice; his brother, Robert; and his sister, Marjorie Hanley. While we miss him beyond words, we take comfort knowing he is at peace, surrounded once more by loved ones.

Donald Keith Miller lived a quiet full life, but its impact was anything but small. He will be remembered for his gentle hands, his faithful heart, and the love he left in every life he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Carmangay Community Centre, 516 Grand Avenue, Carmangay AB. on Saturday May 23, 2026 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Vulcan County Health and Wellness Foundation, The Veterans Association, The Vulcan Legion.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

04/21/2026

Gladys Ruby Mae Rushfeldt
1930 - 2026

Gladys Ruby Mae was born on February 25, 1930 in Vulcan AB to Alva and Hazel Mainland and passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026.

She attended school at Reid Hill and also Olds College.

Victor and Gladys were married and moved to the old Dave Lewis farm in the Eastway district.

Gladys is survived by five children, Leighton (Penny) Rushfeldt, Brenda Mueller, Norma McLean, Valerie Holm, and Sharon (Dave) Serben. Also by thirteen grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gladys was predeceased by Husband Victor Rushfeldt and son-in-laws Allen Mueller, Bob Holm, and Murray McLean.

Tributes in Gladys's memory can be made to Vulcan County Health and Wellness Foundation, Box 28, Vulcan, AB, T0L 2B0 or to vchw.foundation@gmail.com

A celebration of life will be held Saturday May 2nd, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the Vulcan United Church.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

04/14/2026

Leslie Albert Krasman,

1944 - 2026

Leslie Albert Krasman (Les) passed away peacefully with his wife Kathleen by his side on Sunday April 12th, 2026 in Vulcan, Alberta.

Les was born on October 14th, 1944 to the late Albert and Elise Krasman in Innisfail, Alberta. Les moved to the family farm in Champion with his parents in 1946. Les completed High School in Vulcan and obtained his Heavy Duty Mechanics licence and Interprovincial Seal from SAIT in 1970. Les built a beautiful life anchored around the family farm and his family.

Les met the love of his life, Kathleen, in 1968 and they were married April 1970. Les and Kathleen had two children, Kimberley and Kent, who were raised on the family farm.

Les was a quiet and stoic man who valued family and hard work. Les loved the farm. He loved to see life take shape and watch the crops grow. Les could drive by a field and know what was growing by the shape of the leaf and the way it turned in the sunshine.

Les was always willing to lend a hand, no matter friend or stranger. Les could fix almost anything and took pride in always keeping everything on the farm running and in good order. Les built his shop, all the grainaries and helped build the house on the farm for his parents.

Les loved the Champion community and volunteered with the Champion Legion, the Champion Cemetery. Les was one of the founding members of the Little Bow Gas Coop and the Little Bow Water Coop. Les loved to host family, friends and neighbours at this backyard fire pit and gazebo.

Les is survived by his wife of 56 years, Kathleen, his daughter Kimberley, son in law Joe and granddaughter Olivia along with numerous beloved sisters and brothers in law and nieces and nephews

Les was predeceased by his son Kent, his parents and his grandson Michael.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Les on Saturday, April 18th, 2026 at 2 pm at the Champion Community Hall. Casual dress. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Champion Library would be appreciated.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

04/06/2026

Mary Douglass was born just days before the Wall Street crash and the start of the Great Depression. Like so many children of the 30s, Mary and her brother Stuart knew little of what they missed. It was a typical early Alberta farm family‘s life: horses to ride, gophers to snare, blizzard to survive. Mary loved to roam the country on a horse and would go MIA for hours (and days) at a time. She never lost her love of horses.

But when Mary went from school in the Berrywater district to Vulcan, she also started hanging out with Rosie Haga – and met her future husband – Rosie’s older brother Vernal.

V. W., as she called him, and Mary wed October 24th, 1948 and soon welcomed son Craig. Sandra followed. They moved onto the middle farm, close to Ensign, about the same time and only left when all four children were gone.

Brother Bobby lived with Mary and Vernal during the early fifties. And each year Mary worked with the Haga brothers to farm the family’s fields and enjoy the work-filled life, not as a farm wife but as a farmer. She drove truck, fed pigs and herded children. Lawrence Brent (Larry Brent to those who know him) was born in May, 1955 followed by Denise in September, 1958. But Denise was born with complications and over the next six years life was subdued. Denise would eventually go to a care facility but return to live in the care of Wheat Country Special Needs, just down the road from her family.

By the mid seventies the children were gone and Mary and Vernal had eased back from farm life. Mary decided she should run for county council and Vernal decided she shouldn’t. It didn’t take long before V.W. decided the alternative - fostering children - was not as attractive as a wife who wasn’t there for the occasional evening meal. And so Mary ran, and won a seat on county council in 1974. And how she loved the challenge, the fun, the notoriety.

In the 80’s Mary and V.W. bought a small house kitty corner from the golf course. It became a half way house for those traveling to and from golf…especially their closest golf and curling buddies. About the same time they began to travel. They loved their winter trips to Arizona and California. They’d pack up their fifth wheel - golf clubs, a deck of cards and a case of Labatt’s Blue, and head south of the border, down Indio way. Memorable trips to Europe were also on the agenda.

In the spring of 1988 Mary’s partner V.W. was diagnosed with prostrate cancer and passed peacefully in 1992. Life would never be the same for Mary, but she was always a strong woman and would soon be traveling again, this time with children and friends.

Mary continued to golf, curl and live life to the fullest until she broke a hip just a few years ago. She leaves many close golfing and bridge buddies, children and grandchildren, and a truck full of memories.

Family and Friends are invited to A Celebration of life for Mary Friday April 10, 2026 at 3: 00 pm at the Vulcan Golf and Country Club. A Private family graveside service will be held where she will be laid to rest with her loving husband Vernal.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

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