https://www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca/

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

06/23/2026

Marilyn June Nelson,
1936 - 2026

On June 21, 2026, Marilyn June Nelson peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Saviour at the age of 90.

Mom was born on February 22, 1936, in Calgary, Alberta, to Norman and Muriel McCord. She attended school in Milo before continuing her education at Henderson Business College in Calgary. Upon completing her studies, she worked at the Bank of Montreal in Calgary for a year before returning to her hometown of Milo.

On March 10, 1956, Mom married her beloved husband, Artie Nelson. Together they built a life on the farm, where they raised their five children: Blain, Blair, Wade, Vicki, and Tim. Mom was a devoted wife, mother, and partner, working alongside dad on the farm, caring for her family, and always lending a hand wherever help was needed.

Faith, family, and community were at the heart of mom’s life. She was deeply involved in her Lutheran church and participated in many community organizations throughout the years. Following the passing of dad, mom embraced new opportunities to travel, enjoying many memorable adventures and exploring the world with dear friends. She cherished the Milo community and the lifelong friendships she made there. Leaving Milo when she moved to High River in 2021 was one of the more difficult transitions in her life.

Mom will be lovingly remembered by her children, Blair (Dale), Wade (Kathy), Vicki (Monty), and Tim; her grandchildren, Ashley (Russ), Kendra (Kurt), Thane (Sarah), Travis, and Taylor (Derek); and her treasured great-grandchildren, Aurelia, Gage, Oliver, Griffin, Finnegan, Cayson, Clara, Jackson, Kayden, and Brodie. She is also survived by her sister, Sheila (Richard) Stokes; sister-in-law, Carol Steiner; her chosen daughter, Diane (Tony) Krystalowich; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mom was predeceased by her beloved husband, Artie; her son, Blain; her granddaughter, Kacy; her parents, Norman and Muriel McCord; and her brothers, Richard, Jim, Ted, and Bob.

Though she will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her, and forever in the presence of her Saviour.

Ephesians 2:4-9
4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

A private family graveside service will be held,

arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

06/23/2026

Barbara Jennine Bruce
1938 - 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Jennine Bruce (nee Bloomfield) on June 10, 2026. Barbara was born in Arrowwood, Alberta on July 7, 1938, the daughter of Herbert & Edna Bloomfield who moved to Calgary 2 years later to raise the family, including Barbara's younger sister, Donna Bloomfield Bradford (dee. 2017). After attending Western Canada High School, Barbara graduated from Calgary Business College which prepared her for her 25 year career in the oil & gas industry as an Executive Administrator. She found tremendous satisfaction from this professional career while at the same time very much enjoying the family life she was creating with William James Bruce (whom she married in 1958) and with their daughter, Lisa Bruce Weldon. Jim and Barbara were among the first owners in the community of Coach Hill, buying a house which they made into a lovely, warm and welcoming home. Happy memories from this time included many vacations with a group who remained life-long friends. With the unexpected death of Jim in 1991, Barbara had to face a new chapter in her life. She often credited her participation with the M&M Hiking Club as her source of comfort and strength during this time. These were also early retirement years so in addition to hiking, Barbara had time to learn golf, play bridge, tend her flower beds, and lunch frequently with friends. Much as Barbara loved Calgary, she looked forward to breaks from winter with regular trips to Mexico. She also fulfilled her love of travel with vacations throughout the US and to Argentina, Chile, Spain, France, Italy, England, Scotland and Greece. Along the way, Barbara found time for art lessons which enhanced her creative, artistic talents, resulting in the painting of the truly beautiful artwork displayed in the Coach Hill home which she was always happy to return to after those travels.

Barbara displayed much generosity during her life, supporting a number of social, medical and political organizations. Should her life encourage you to follow her example or to honor her memory, please donate to a charity of your choice or to Alzheimer's Society of Canada.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

06/18/2026

Colleen Agnes Margaret Lachance
1960 - 2026

It is with sadness that we announce that Colleen Lachance (nee Elias) formerly of Vulcan, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026 at the age of 65 after a battle with cancer, with her husband and son at her side.

Colleen is survived by her husband Terry and their son Clayton Lachance, his wife Mildred and their children Carson, Nolan, and Charlotte, her mother Mary Elias, sisters Connie (John) Black, Yvonne Elias, brothers Terry (Rita), Dwight (Leila) Clifford (Nicole), and Clinton (Danielle) Elias, and numerous nieces and nephews. Colleen was predeceased by their daughter Jennifer Lachance in 2023.

The family invites those wishing to pay their respects to the

graveside service at the Vulcan cemetery on Friday, June 26 at noon and/or the church service at Calgary Central Seventh-day Adventist Church on Sunday, June 28 at 1:00 pm. Reception to follow the services.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

06/09/2026

Gail Adrienne King
1937 - 2026

Gail Adrienne King, 88, of High River, AB, passed away on May 30th, 2026 at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary, AB.

Gail was born in Calgary, AB to John (Jack) Naish & Adrienne (Champagne) Naish on August 11, 1937. She went to high school at Western Canadian High School. She worked as a Teacher Assistant at Arrowwood Elementary School for a number of years. She enjoyed keeping up with her grandchildren & great-grandchildren, being a hockey mom, bingo, winters in Arizona & trips to Las Vegas to gamble, a good road trip & cruises, being a snowbird, knitting, genealogy, going to horse races with Linda and keeping a meticulously clean house which she took great pride in. She was involved with the local Girl Guides as a leader.

Gail is survived by her husband, Roy King of High River, her sons John (Lindsay), Dean (Cindy), Ian, her grandchildren Kelsey (Dustin), Kirsten, Garrett, Dereka, Corissa, Railyn (Andrew), Dallin, and her two great-grandchildren Harper & Haisley. She was preceded by her sister Jacqueline Larkins and her husband Don Larkins, her parents John (Jack) Naish & Adrienne (Champagne) Naish.

A Funeral service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada - charitable number 10756 7398 RR0001, 880-5160 Decarie Blvd. Montreal, QC H3X 2H9. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to South Calgary Dialysis Centre (Tina) and Foothills Hospital Unit 37 for all the wonderful care provided.

Arrangements in Care of Vulcan Funeral Home

06/09/2026

Rose Mae Wenzel, 1929 - 2026

Rose Mae Wenzel (nee Morgan) of Vulcan, Alta., passed away on June 3, 2026 at the age of 97.

Rose was born in Dodsland, Sask., on May 26, 1929. She was one of three daughters, including sisters Alice and Isobel, born to Thomas and Martha Morgan, and also had a half-brother, John Wadia, who was born in Wales.

Rose married Harvey Wenzel in 1949 at Sylvan Lake, Alta. From there, she and Harvey spent years moving from place to place following his career with the Canadian Pacific Railway, including stops in Penhold, Exshaw, Yoho, Castlegar, Beiseker before finally settling in Vulcan, Alta. After retirement, Harvey and Rose settled on an acreage just outside of Vulcan, where they ran a market garden for many years.

Rose was truly a special woman who lived a life full of family, friends, music and flowers. She made friends everywhere she went and volunteered with numerous entities, but she was most fond of her work with the Royal Canadian Legion, where she could often be found playing music and singing. At home, Rose was known for her love of gardening, cooking and baking.

Rose was predeceased by Harvey in 2022 after 72 years of marriage. She was also predeceased by her daughter Gloria, son-in-law John and daughter-in-law Robin. Rose leaves behind many friends and family members, including her son Gordon; grandchildren Serena (Bo), James (Linda), Shane (Kari), Brenda (Brett) and Heather (Jeremy); and great-grandchildren Dylan, Natalie, Abby, Alex, Alexander and Tristan.

The family invites all whose lives were touched by Rose to join them in celebrating her life. At the Vulcan Royal Canadian Legion Hall Monday June 15, 2026 1:00PM

Donations in Rose's memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or the Canadian Red Cross.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home.

06/04/2026

Hugh James Hanna
1944 - 2026

Hugh “Jim” James Hanna of Vulcan, Alberta, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on March 29, 1944, in Armada, Alberta, Jim was the cherished son of Vivian Rose (Eccles) and Hugh Charles “Squint” Hanna.

Jim was raised on the family farm near Lomond in Armada, where he spent his childhood working alongside his dad and learning the values that shaped his life: hard work, honesty, and loyalty. He loved being a farm kid—those early years remained some of his fondest memories, and he carried that deep connection to the land throughout his life.

For 35 years, Jim drove truck and later owned and operated Vulcan Express, becoming a familiar face on the roads and in the community. He was well known for his signature “wave”—a fist raised and shaken in the air—which became his unmistakable calling card to friends, neighbors, and fellow drivers.

To those closest to him, Jim was a man of stubborn determination, direct truth, and a kind, loving heart. He said what needed to be said, stood firm in his convictions, and cared deeply for the people in his life. Beneath his straightforward exterior was a gentle, generous spirit who showed his love through action, presence, and unwavering loyalty.

He has always loved sport cars – his favorite car was his 1969 Gran Turino that he purchased as his first sports car. He was typically patient mechanically inclined man. He knew how to fix any type of motor on anything that required one. Always wanting to pass on his knowledge to those wanting to learn.

He was not one that liked to sit still, he loved to go out and do things with his family. His favorite thing to do was in the winter; tobogganing. He did this well into his 60’s with whoever would go.

He also loved watching his grandchildren play sports.

Jim was predeceased by the love of his life, Doreen Margaret Connon (1994); his daughter Sheri-Ann Hanna (1975); his parents Squint Hanna (1982) and Vivian Hanna (1985); his aunt Ruth Fath (2013); his uncle Cliff Fath (1994); his uncle Max Hanna(2014); and his aunt Betty Hanna (2025) Mother in Law Harriet Connon(2001).

He is survived by his children Lesli Kearns(Kent) and Michael Hanna(Jamie), grandchildren, Kelvin, Karson, and Keaton Kearns. Nicholas(Mikayla), Zachary, Lucas, and Megan Hanna all of whom he was immensely proud of. His legacy lives on in their lives in the stories he shared, and in the lessons, he passed down.

Siblings; Ken Hanna, Shirley Spanke(Ken), and Larry Hanna. Along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, Great nieces, great nephews and a great great niece.

A service to honor Jim’s life will be held Saturday, June 6, 2pm at the Vulcan Legion Hall in Vulcan, Alberta.

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

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 [email protected]

Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home

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