Kenneth James Pickard
1950-2024

Ken passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024 on the date of his choosing (MAiD) at sunset surrounded by those he loved in Edmonton Alberta after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer.

Ken was the second of five siblings Garry, Evan, Larry and John (Jody) born to Kenneth and Helen Pickard. He is survived by his loving wife Jane (Gowan), daughter Marni Stanislawski, son-in-law Slav, granddaughter Madison, brother Jody, sister-in-law Catherine (Nevala), Bob Nevala, nieces and nephews and our soul family of Dave and Carol Campbell.

With his father’s employment as a gold miner the family moved several times finally settling in Red Lake Ontario. Ken knew at an early age that education was his way to a better life. In 1969 he enrolled at Confederation College to study Hotel and Restaurant Administration graduating in 1970. He began his career moving to Edmonton Alberta working for CN Hotels at the MacDonald Hotel. In 1977 he made the decision to further his education receiving his B.A. in 1982 and his Masters of Administration at the University of Alberta in 1981 all while working full time and raising a family. His dream was to work in a field where his compassionate side could be his everyday life. Ken became the Executive Director of Youville Home in St. Albert for the Grey Nuns of Montreal and in 1991received his Masters in Science in Administration with a concentration in Health Sciences thru the University of Michigan. In 1998 he graduated from St. Paul’s University Ottawa in the Catholic Health Care Leadership Program. In 2001 he took a position as Executive Director with Community Living Thunder Bay until retirement.

Ken was a voracious reader especially mysteries always with several books on the go. On the deck, in the sun, by the beach a must. A Crossword puzzle was his every morning ritual along with keeping informed on political issues around the world. Twice daily walks were a must meeting neighbours with hellos, smiles and conversations. Ken’s yard and gardens were impeccably kept. He was a compulsive dead header in his and everyone else’s garden. Ken was an avid dancer and singer. Singing with the Fort William Male Choir, Thunder Bay was a much loved pass time.

Respecting Ken’s wishes cremation has taken place and a family memorial will be held in the future.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Loretta Anna McKenzie, who left us on January 13, 2025 at the age of 79 surrounded by loving family after a beautifully lived life. Full of love, laughter, and resilience, she touched the lives of all who knew her. No formal services will take place, as Loretta requested, but we do appreciate your love and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Cancer Research Society Heart and Stroke Foundation or any of your choice.

Debra Ann Keller, born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, was a beloved member of her family and devoted wife. Growing up in a loving household, she developed a passion for gardening, crafting, and caring for her siblings. She also had a deep love for baseball and golf, sports that brought her much joy throughout her life. Known for her kindness, generosity, beautiful smile, and contagious laugh, Debra touched the hearts of everyone she met. Debra also had a deep love for traveling the world and cherished the moments she spent with her family and friends across the globe. She was a constant source of joy and inspiration to those around her.

As an entrepreneur, Debra achieved great success with her business, Popcorn Plus. Her dedication and hard work earned her numerous awards and accolades at events such as the Calgary Stampede, Klondike Days, and the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), among many others. She was a familiar face at their restaurant Leo Burrito and her namesake D’s mini-golf, where she left a lasting impression with anyone she met.

Debra passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, at the University Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. She leaves behind cherished memories with her loving husband, Michael Gratton; her parents, Evelyn and Edward Keller, siblings Randy Keller (Linda), Sandy Keller, and Michael Keller (Jodyne); and all of her beloved nieces and nephews.

Her warmth and light will forever be remembered by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.

It is with great sadness that the family of Thomas Dawnay announce his passing on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at the age of 71.

Originally from Ireland, Tom will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 41 years, Kate; children, Siobhan and Rory; granddaughter Myra; siblings David, Alan and Martine, several nieces and nephews including Mark, Michelle and Thomas and numerous other family members and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Nora.

Throughout his life he pursued many different jobs in hospitals, on a ship, as a bartender and as an actor. He was an alumni of the University of Alberta, Faculty of Arts. He enjoyed painting and drawing and adorned his home, galleries and offices with his works of art.

He also enjoyed travelling Europe and went home to Ireland whenever he got the chance. He was an avid listener of rock music, often blasting Rolling Stones and Billy Idol songs well into the night.

Tom spent a lot of time with his family, joking around, taking them on outings and attending his kids’ school events. In his later years, his favourite activities were watching old movies and drinking orange Fanta.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre for their care and attention in his final days.

A service will be held at a later date.

VITEK (WITOLD) OLSZEWSKI
Feb. 4, 1982 – Jan. 21, 2025
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our son, brother and uncle, Witold Olszewski.
Witek passed away at the young age of 42, after years of struggling with health issues.
He leaves behind his loving mom Ania, and older sisters, Joanna and Aleksandra and their families, as well as family and friends in Alberta, Poland and United Kingdom. Witek was predeceased by his dad Janek in 2013.
Witek was loved and known for his happy demeanor, friendliness and a helping nature.
He was a generous and caring person, especially to his nieces and nephew. He spoiled all four with gifts on every occasion and enjoyed spending his time playing with them.
The family will hold a mass and burial service for Witek at a later date.

Jean (nee West) Gibson
March 20, 1934 – January 21, 2025

The family of Jean Audrey (West) Gibson sadly share the news of Jean’s passing in the early morning of January 21, 2025.
Jean Audrey West was born in 1934 to parents Fred and Julia West who farmed near the hamlet of Metiskow, AB. Her life began in some of the most difficult conditions of the 20th century, the Great Depression (or “dirty thirties” as Fred called it), followed by world war, but hard work and perseverance overcame difficulties. Family economics had Jean leaving school and going to live and work away from home at 16. Later in life she shared memories of hard times growing up, but also of warm and happy family times.
In 1952, while working in Provost, Alberta she met and married Angus MacLean, who had come to the town while working on oil rigs in the area. They were attracted by a mutual love of dancing and later in life, daughter Barb recalls Jean was known by some as “Jean, Jean, the dancing machine.” The couple embarked on a life following the oil rigs, living in a very small trailer, even after adding son Donald in 1953. Tragically, Angus MacLean was killed in a rig accident just prior to their second anniversary, leaving Jean as a young widow with a one-year-old child.
In 1956 Jean married James “Mac” Gibson, a friend and work colleague of Angus. Three more children followed; Julie, Douglas and Barbara and the couple embarked on a long and successful marriage and family life.
Jean was a consummate homemaker, caring deeply for her children and putting their interests above her own. Grand-daughters Marla and Emily remember fighting over her fabulous cinnamon buns. Julie remembers her many late nights after kids were in bed, hunched over the sewing machine creating outfits for her growing girls which also included a suitcase of clothes for their Barbie dolls. Starting from her life in a 15ft trailer the family advanced steadily into larger homes. Son Don remembers the large multi-generation dinners where everyone somehow fit into kitchens, tiny by today’s standards. One year had the Christmas group filling a repurposed ping pong table in the basement. Jean prepared everything.
After her children had grown to marketable size, Jean went back to her original work in retail, managing a ladies clothing store in Edmonton for a number of years. Proud to be earning her own money she showered her children with Christmas gifts in her first year back working.
Mac retired early from his job and the couple commenced the golden years of their marriage, spending winters in Hemet California. They met new friends, travelled on cruises, and had 20 years of well-earned retirement as snowbirds. Mac remarked just this week, “they had a wonderful life.” In 1991 they sold their acreage home to their son Douglas and began the reverse steps of progressively smaller homes. Granddaughter Heather will always remember her times picking raspberries at their acreage home and then watching Nana make jam while Grandson Brian recalls good times with Nana at their Pigeon Lake home.
After several years with Mac in an assisted living home, Jean was moved in the summer of 2024 to another home where her needs could be better met. She slipped her earthly bonds peacefully in her own bed at Devonshire Care Centre, Edmonton.
Jean leaves to mourn her passing her husband of almost 69 years, Mac Gibson along with her children and their spouses; Don (Diane), Julie (Dick), Doug (Caron) and Barbara. She enjoyed happy times pampering her grandchildren who knew her as Nana. Heather (Ryan), Brian (Kristal), Marla and Emily (Dylan). She was fortunate to know great-grandchildren, Claire, Nathan, Alice, and Angus. Also surviving Jean is her sister, Marjorie Kozlinski, and her brother Ron West, both of Provost.
Her wish to return to Metiskow will mean a private family service of interment of her ashes to take place in late spring.

MacKenzie (Mack) David Potter passed away on January 9, 2025 in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 37. Mack will be forever missed and remembered by his nephew (Tate Potter-Masse), sister (Cassie Potter), grandparents (Sharon Garland, Rev. Deacon David Whall), many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who are family. Though Mack will be missed earthside, we know that he was welcomed into the open arms of pre-deceased family and friends including his Mom (Linda Potter nee Whall) and grandparents (James Garland, Rita Whall).

Celebrations of Life will be held for Mack in the Summer both in Ontario and Alberta. More details on dates and locations will be shared once available.

Carol Lorraine Fawson, born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 1, 1951, passed away January 21, 2025 in Edmonton, Alberta, from cancer. Carol’s parents, Olive Scallion and Robert Fawson, and her siblings, Rene and Bobby, precede her in death. She is survived by: Percy, Cathy, Mary, Danny, Trish and Barb.

Carol considered her most significant life achievement was raising two loving children, Darryl Chisholm (Kelly) and Tara Chisholm -Guimont (Étienne). She was a positive, loving grandmother to Alexander and Christopher Chisholm by infusing their lives with her affection and laughter. Carols’ family never doubted her love for them.

She cherished a close relationship with her Goddaughter Seana Pinkney and her best friend of 46 years, Loretta Maloney. Even when life presented its most challenging moments, Carol had the rare gift of finding humour, uplifting those around her.

Carol worked as a medical secretary at The Halifax Infirmary in the Microbiology department. She then worked at The Mental Health and Addictions Services Centre, where she retired from.

She showed her community spirit through her volunteer activities: Scouts Canada, Fresh Start Housing Co-op, Little Bits Therapeutic Riding association for Children with Disabilities, as well as the St Vincent de Paul Society.

Her devotion to her family marked Carol’s life. Her younger siblings will remember her for the many happy days at Point Pleasant Park in Halifax. Carol’s warmth, generosity, and loving spirit were familiar to everyone. She will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to thank Francene and Amber from Seniors Home Care, Edmonton.

You can make donations to Autism Canada in Carol’s name.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gregory Edward Arndt, who left this world on January 10, 2025, at the age of 57. He was born on February 28, 1967, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, to Edward and Marie Arndt. Greg grew up in Regina, where he developed a deep love for sports, particularly hockey and football. Despite his frequent time in the penalty box, his passion for the games and the camaraderie they brought remained a cherished part of his youth.
 
A proud graduate of SIAST, Greg dedicated his life to his work as a journeyman plumber. His commitment to his craft and his reputation for excellence were hallmarks of his professional life, demonstrating a strong work ethic and unwavering integrity.
 
Greg found love and companionship in his high school sweetheart, Diane, with whom he raised two beloved children, Kiera and Nolan. The young family made a new home in St. Albert, Alberta, after moving from Regina for work. Though their marriage ended, both Greg and Diane shared a deep, unconditional love for their children, and Greg’s dedication to Kiera and Nolan remained a guiding force in his life.
 
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Greg was known for his kind soul and generosity. He had a natural inclination to help anyone in need, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to cross his path. A passionate motorcyclist, Greg enjoyed riding his Harley, often finding joy and freedom on the open road.
 
Greg is survived by his beloved children, Kiera and Nolan; his loving brother, Kevin (Linda), and sister, Kim (Dave); and his cherished nieces, Mika, Lexie, Jenna, and Jocelyn. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Marie Arndt. Greg will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will carry the memories of his warmth, laughter, and kindness in their hearts forever.

Diane Mary Wishewan
March 27, 1960 – January 16, 2025

Diane Mary Wishewan, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in Edmonton, Alberta on January 16, 2025 at the age of 64. Born on March 27, 1960, in Iserlohn, Germany, while her dad was stationed in the military. Diane embraced life with an infectious zest and called Edmonton home for over three decades.

At Ennis Fabrics, Diane was more than just a valued employee; she was a beacon of support and guidance for her colleagues. Her unwavering kindness and deep well of knowledge made her the go-to person for anyone seeking advice or assistance. Colleagues consistently praised her helpful nature and respected her expertise, creating a warm and supportive work environment.

Preceded in death by her mother, Olga Mabel Fraser (September 27, 1999), and her father, Ernest Neil Fraser (May 16, 2022), Diane leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering resilience. She is survived by her devoted husband, Larry; her cherished children, Mark and Jenn (Terry); her brother, Tom; her beloved grandchildren, Curtis and Isabella; Aunt Helen (Terry) and a wide circle of nieces and in-laws who will forever cherish the memories of her warm smile and loving embrace. Diane faced life’s challenges with extraordinary courage and grace. Her battle with cancer was a testament to her indomitable spirit. She faced the illness with unwavering strength, never allowing it to diminish her vibrant personality or her love for life.

Diane’s passion for sports was a testament to her competitive spirit and zest for life. In her 20’s, she embraced baseball with enthusiasm, showcasing her tenacity even after a significant injury. Later, she discovered the joy and camaraderie of soccer, excelling as a skilled goalkeeper.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and athletic pursuits, Diane cherished the simple joys of life. She found immense happiness in spending time with her family, creating lasting memories that will forever be treasured. Diane’s kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will forever be cherished, a constant reminder of her vibrant spirit and the enduring love she shared with those around her.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring of this year. Details will be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.