William (Bill) Max Thomas
It is with profound sadness that the family of William (Bill) Max Thomas announce his passing on April 19, 2014 at the age of 68 at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon. Bill will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 47 years, Melanie, his daughter Wendy (Gerry Broom) of Frontier, his son Jeff (Shauna) Thomas of Davidson and his beloved grandsons, Ryan Broom of Saskatoon, Christopher Broom of Frontier and Isaiah Thomas of Davidson.
Bill was born in Davidson, Saskatchewan on December 9, 1945, the oldest child and only son of Wendolin and Catherine Thomas. He was followed by two sisters, Barbara and Margaret. He attended school at Detchon School, a short distance from the farm and when it closed, he rode the bus to Davidson for classes. School did not appeal to Bill so he left the area in his late teens to work at various other opportunities, but did not stray long from the land. He returned to Davidson where he met a “new-comer” to the area, Melanie Marie Rice in 1965. On July 16, 1966, Bill and Melanie were married at St. James Church near Lake Lenore, Saskatchewan and they took up residence in a small yard site west of Davidson. Wendy was born a year later on July 13, 1967, then Wendel passed away shortly after, in August of 1967 and Bill moved his new family to the home place where he took over the farming and cattle operations. Jeffrey was born on September 5, 1968.
Bill and Melanie worked the land and raised cattle for many years, facing the day-to-day tribulations of the industry. Both of them spend endless hours driving and riding on buses attending many hockey tournaments as Jeff was very active in the sport. The Thomas farm was always busy with many friends stopping in at all times as Bill was never too busy to visit. They enjoyed winter ski trips with friends and relatives to various ski resorts in the United States and spent as much time as possible during the summer at the cabin on the lakeshore of Marean Lake. Spring and Fall always brought lots of activities on the farm with calving, then seeding, then finally harvest. Life was full and later on, Bill enjoyed travelling to Frontier to visit with Gerry and Wendy and occasionally helping out with their farming if the timing was right.
Bill’s pride and joy, other than the farm, were his grandsons – all three of them. He was proud to attend the graduation ceremonies of both Ryan and Christopher and enjoyed attending as many of their school and sports functions as possible over the years. He particularly enjoyed when he got to attend hockey tournaments and volleyball games to watch his grandsons play. With the arrival of Isaiah, he adjusted to a younger version and was happy to see Jeff and Shauna plan, build and move into a new home right in the farmyard.
For the past several years, Bill and Melanie ventured south to Yuma, AZ where they had purchased a trailer at an active little resort. They couldn’t wait to get there so they spent Christmases down South Frontier with Gerry and Wendy, then would leave shortly thereafter to arrive in Yuma on New Year’s Eve. This past Christmas saw Jeff, Shauna and Isaiah drive to Frontier to have the entire family together.
In January of this year, Bill and Melanie had their first flight in a jet when they flew to Cancun to attend Gerry ad Wendy’s wedding on the beach in Playa del Carmen. Even though Bill didn’t venture out and about much while there, he got to walk on the white sands and see the blue of the ocean.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Wendolin and Catherine, his parents-in-law Sidney and Marie Rice and sisters-in-law Dorothy Rice and Norma Gaillard.
He will be sadly missed by his sisters, Barb (Sonny) Weinberger of Creston, B.C., Margie (Ron) Bort of Saskatoon, Sask., many aunts and uncles, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services were held at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Parish in Davidson, Sask. on Saturday, April 26, 2014. Hanson’s Funeral Services was in charge of arrangements.
Friends so wishing may make a donation to a local charity of their choice.

Russell, Calvin
1928 – 2014
Calvin Harding Russell of Davidson, Sask. passed away peacefully at the Davidson Health Centre on June 1, 2014 at the age of 85. Calvin is survived by his brother Grant, sister Kathleen Loseth, nephew Rick (Jan) Loseth, nieces Lori (Rick) Frank, Cheryl (Kent) Frank, Marilyn (Terry) Barros, as well as many great nieces and nephews. Calvin was predeceased by his parents, sister-in-law Eileen Russell and brother-in-law Victor Loseth.
The Celebration of Calvin’s life took place Friday, June 6, 2 p.m. at the Davidson United Church with Rev. Diane Eurig officiating.
For friends so wishing, memorial donations in memory of Calvin may be directed to the charity of your choice.
Hanson’s Funeral Home of Davidson in care of arrangements.

Annetta (Nettie) Hodgins
We are saddened to announce the passing of our dear Mom and Grandma on May 7, 2014, at the age of 86. Annetta Winifred Clark was born in Edam, Sask., to John and Louisa May Clark on August 21, 1927. She had two brothers, George and Charlie and three sisters, May, Edith and Ethel. Nettie received her schooling in the Fairholme district at Clarkville and Sybil Lake schools. At the age of 17 she moved to Battleford and got a job at a restaurant “slinging hash”. While working at a furniture and grocery store, she met a young man with a penchant for Harley Davidsons. Nettie married Stuart Hodgins May 26, 1951. For their honeymoon they rode Stu’s Harley all the way to Mexico City! Stu and Net moved from Saskatoon to the family farm near Bladworth in the late 1950s and built a new home in 1968. They were blessed with two sons: Wayne in 1956, Murray in 1966 and later four granddaughters. Nettie was very active within her community and the Davidson Kinettes. Stu and Nettie loved to travel, camp and fish. They sent many winters in Hawaii as well as southern California. Nettie loved to share her creations from the kitchen with her family, especially her pickles and baking. She remained on the family farm until her passing.
Annetta was predeceased by her husband Stuart in 2006. She was also predeceased by her parents and step-father, her brothers George and Charlie and her sister Ethel. Nettie will be forever missed and remembered by her loving family: her son Wayne (Brenda) and granddaughter Krystal (Chad) Marks; her son Murray (Tracy) and granddaughters Nicolette (Erik Johnson), Jordan and Paige Hodgins. Nettie is also survived by her sisters May Landry and Edith Connochie and sister-in-law Shirley Clark.
A celebration of Nettie’s life will be held Saturday, June 7, beginning at 2 p.m. with a Graveside Service at the Bladworth Cemetery, followed by a social at the Bladworth Hall. Donations in Nettie’s memory may be made to the Bladworth Elks.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hanson’s Funeral Home.

Helen Sarich
March 24, 1917 – April 29, 2014
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Helen Sarich (nee Sekulich) on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at the age of 97. Helen passed away peacefully at the Pasqua Hospital with her family at her side. She was born to Daniel and Antonia Sekulich on March 24, 1917 on a farm outside of Bladworth, SK. In 1936 Helen married Tony Sarich, a local man; they moved to a farm north of Davidson where they resided for 28 years, and later retiring to Davidson, SK. Helen is predeceased by her husband Tony, son David, son-in-law Michael Zaholuk, and siblings Joseph, Matt, Stan, Rose, and Katherine. Helen is remembered by her children: Anne Zaholuk, Ron (Susan) Sarich, Terry (Marianne) Sarich, Allan (Kae) Sarich, Victoria Heinrichs, Toni Sarich, and daughter-in-law Lois Sarich. Grandchildren: Lori (Ray) Herauf, Janet (Rod) Baxter, Joanne (Howie) Elder, Jackie (Wade) Williamson, Lorne (Rhonda) Sarich, Scott Sarich, Amanda (Andre) Sarich, Kurt Sarich, Adam Sarich, Nicole (David) Sarich, and Demi Sarich. Siblings: Maizie Siroski, John(Katie) Sekulich, Vi Siroski, and sister-in-law Joan Sekulich; along with 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Helen lived a long and healthy life, full of family, friends and a strong faith. She was an avid bowler, curler, car player and a founding member of the C.W.L. in the local Sacred Heart Parish. A celebration of Helen’s life was held on Friday, May 2, 2014 at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church. For friends so wishing, memorials in memory of Helen may be directed to the Sask. Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of your choice.

Linda Marie deRegt

April 3, 1949 – April 9, 2014
Linda deRegt lived most of her life in Hanley. She was the second oldest of four sisters born to Ernie and Susan Unrau.
After completing her grade 12, Linda took a hairdressing course at Marvel Beauty School in Saskatoon. A short time after, she took over the business of her good friend Linda Dietz and continued running her salon for over 40 years.
Linda worked so hard all of her life raising her sons, Darren and Bob, as a single parent. She was a faithful “hockey Mom” and always made sure her boys didn’t miss out. When Bob passed away three years ago Linda was heartbroken and she never got over losing him. Yet, in spite of all the struggles throughout Linda’s life, she always managed to bring a smile, her love and her generosity to anyone and everyone around her. Her sense of humour was enjoyed by all – she was quite a comedian.
Linda was always very involved in the community. She served on Town Council for many years and until her passing was on the board of the Hanley Housing Authority.
Linda’s senior clients had a special place in her heart. She often chauffeured them to different outings and appointments and brought them food if they were sick. Over the years many have passed away but Linda still saved their client cards. She said she just couldn’t throw them out.
A highlight for Linda and her family was when, in 2012, she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal for her continued devotion and service to her family and community. It was a very well deserved recognition for sure.
Linda spent her last two weeks and two days in the hospital. Her room was a busy place full of family, friends and lots of laughs. The doctors and nurses were often included in the joking around. Linda told us all that she had a wonderful birthday surrounded by family and friends. Unfortunately, she suffered a stroke sometime later in the evening after her birthday. This along with other medical complications made it difficult for her to communicate. We were all grateful, though, that Linda knew who we all were and she responded to each one of us.
Linda is survived by her son Darren (Trina) deRegt, grandsons Tyler (Katelyn) and Cody, granddaughter Emma; sisters Sylvia Unrau, Dorothy (Merle) Prpic and Elaine (Alan) Unrau; nieces and nephews Pam (Curtis) Hilkewich and children Emily and Joseph; Julie (Chris) Wintringham and children Liam and Lucas; Michelle (Kenny) Howard and children Brody and Davis; Mark (Annette) Prpic and children Kaeli, Abigail and Toby; Jen (Cory) Zdunich and children Michael, Megan, Faith and Gracie; Erin (Chad) Kuffert and children Sophie, Vincent and Violet; Mark and Lisa along with their families.
Linda is predeceased by her son Bob deRegt, parents Ernie and Susan Unrau, brother-in-law Mike Zdunich and life partner Peter Beckie.
A special thank you to all of Linda’s clients and friends in Hanley and the surrounding communities for your cards and gestures of kindness. Your loving support is very much appreciated.
Hanson’s Funeral Home of Davidson was in care of arrangements.

Colleen Gayle (Northrop) Griffith of Hanna, AB passed away suddenly on March 4th, 2014 at the age of 48 years.

Colleen was born to Sam & Joyce Northrop on October 27, 1965 in Craik, Saskatchewan near Davidson. The youngest of four children, Colleen quickly became involved in the family ranching operation, Porthorn Shorthorns. She loved the ranching lifestyle and embraced the country way of life.

She was an active member in many different clubs in the Davidson/Craik area including Davidson Lighthorse 4-H Club, Imperial 4-H Beef Club and the local Gymkhana Riding Club. Colleen was very proud when she became the Craik Rodeo Queen and the Shorthorn Lassie Queen for 2 consecutive years, where she advanced to the national competition at the Toronto Winter Fair. Colleen showed cattle for many years at the Regina Agribition for her family and for several other local breeders. She was a determined competitor in gymkhana’s, participating in all events, with her favorite being barrel racing. While competing at the Saskatchewan Provincial Gymkhana finals in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Colleen was honored with the ‘Miss Sportsmanship of the Year’ award.

In 1990, Colleen decided to follow her dreams and moved west to Alberta to become a ranch hand. She worked for the Butler Cattle Company in Youngstown, breaking & training horses. Colleen was a hard-working, brave young woman who was determined to continue her new life in Alberta. She also worked as a nanny and ranch hand for the Curry Ranch in Pollockville, AB, and even enjoyed a few curling bonspiels in the area. With Colleen’s caring disposition for people and animals alike, she began working part-time at the Hanna Veterinary Clinic, and eventually chose a life long career working at the Hanna Medical Centre.

In late 1991, Colleen met the love of her life, Brian Griffith. They were married on May 28, 1994 in Davidson, and moved to the Griffith family ranch south of Hanna, AB. Colleen & Brian were blessed with 4 sons, Royden, Matthew, Riley & Winston.
Together they shared a passion for ranching and a love for horses. They plunged head first into diversifying the family ranch.

On a visit to the ranch you could expect to join Colleen & Brian in their daily activities which could include: being chased by a turkey, spit on by a llama, kicked by a donkey, peed on by a dog, pecked by a chicken, flipping calves at branding, riding horses, experiencing a dog sled ride, or feeding cattle with a team of draft horses. The coffee was always on, and the door was always open to welcome family, friends and anyone wanting to visit.

Colleen’s pride and joy were her sons. She could be seen in the stands videotaping rodeos, football, soccer, and hockey, or whatever the boys were involved in. If she wasn’t videotaping, you sure knew she was there. Colleen’s booming voice could be heard from great distances, cheering her boys to skate harder, run faster, and spur quicker. Colleen continued to involve her family in showing llamas and horses, and participated in gymkhanas at various events throughout Alberta. As the boys grew older, Colleen was able to return to competing in barrel racing and became an active member in the ‘East Central Barrel Racing Club’. In 2012, Colleen won the 3D Senior Barrel Racing Championship on her horse ‘Bob’, receiving her coveted trophy buckle, which she was often seen sporting.

Not only was Colleen a devoted mother and wife, she truly loved her extended family and large circle of friends. Colleen will be remembered as a hardworking, compassionate woman, with a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She touched the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her and will be deeply missed by all.

Colleen will be lovingly remembered and forever missed by her husband Brian, sons Royden, Riley, Winston & stepson Matthew, her brother Bill (Shirley) Northrop, Sisters Ila May Northrop, and Heather (Jerry) Willner. In-laws; Roy & Harriet Griffith, Keith Trudgeon, Connie (Daren) Balazic, Lorna (Wade) Williams, Bruce (Kathy) Griffith, Sheila (Dave) Boehlke, and Shirley (David) Hickle; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles & cousins. Colleen was pre-deceased by her parents Sam & Joyce Northrop and sister-in-law Faye Northrop.

Funeral services were held on March 11, 2014 at the Hanna Community Centre with Pastor Brian Hunter of Camrose officiating. Colleen was laid to rest in the Hanna Cemetery having her final ride on her favorite horse Bob.

In memory of Colleen, if family & friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the East Central Barrel Racing Club, PO Box 1975, Hanna AB, T0J 1P0.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Heartland Funeral Home. 403-854-2758
www.heartlandfuneralservices.com