November 5, 1951 ~ September 18, 2026

Dene Shepherdson (Shep, Dino, or Grandpa Shep) was born on November 5, 1951 in Outlook, Saskatchewan to Bill and Lyla Shepherdson. He grew up on a nearby farm and was a loyal, proud and protective brother to his sisters, Pat, Brenda, Nola, and brother, Neil.

In the village of Kenaston, Saskatchewan in 1971 he would meet the love of his life, Gloria Shepherdson (nee Howells). They married on April 8^th, 1972 and would spend the next 54 years 5 months and 10 days together. They settled close to the town of Gibbons, Alberta where Dene was very involved in the community and established countless friendships.

He served on the Gibbons (Sturgeon) Agricultural Society and Gibbons Minor Hockey and Ringette Associations in various positions from 1989 until 2015. His fun loving, energetic personality and continuous community involvement became a hallmark in the Arena, Curling Rink, Agri-fairs, and Bonspiels.

Dene loved farming, working on almost anything, and could fix everything. He had an enjoyable and dedicated 45 year career with McEwens Esso, and farming with his great friend Bob McEwen. He was passionate about planting crops, passionate about seeing crops grow, but was most passionate about seeing crops hit the bin or the elevator during harvest. Dene attended N.A.I.T. from 1999-2002 and achieved his Journeymen Welding Certification at the very young age of 51years.

Dene was a passionate and dedicated father to his daughters, Nikki Smyth (Cory), Jodene  McIsaac (Dean), Misty Smith (Kevin) and son Dallas Shepherdson (Jamie). Denes legendary size, strength and gorilla like hands were all vanquished by his love of his children. He treated everyone involved with his children, from children’s spouses to children’s friends, as family. His kindness, hilarious antics, and strong family values will be remembered by his children forever.

Dene was Grandpa to 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren – Kord Smyth, Tanner Smyth, Cole McIsaac, Payton McIsaac, Devin Shepherdson, Cody Shepherdson, Teagan Shepherdson, Brady Smith, Sydney Smith, Paige Smith, Erica Smyth, Forest Smyth and Teegan Sisnett . Dene’s dedication to his grandchildren was equal to his dedication to his own children. He loved going to watch their hockey and baseball games, equally enjoyed wrestling matches and engaging in any “enlightening conversation” he could share with any of them. His grandchildren loved the fun, the humor and the incredibly unique personality of Grandpa Shep.

Above everything else Dene loved was Gloria. To anyone that knew them well her name was “Luvy”. The love of almost 55 years together did not fade with time and to his final days Dene wanted to take care of her above all else.

You will be missed forever Dene by everyone blessed with knowing you, including your children, grandchildren, siblings, friends, the community, and most of all your wife.

In respect of Dene’s wishes, no formal service will be held at this time.

Until we meet again “Stay Cool”

July 21, 1976 ~September 11, 2026

Scott passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the age of 50 years after a courageous battle with his cancer diagnosis. Scott met his battle with a strong will to fight, positive attitude and a sense of humor. Scott’s smile and positive attitude was contagious and helped those around him cope with his cancer journey.

Scott was predeceased by his mother, Elaine (Howard) Gray; father, Gregory Moore; grandparents, Margaret and Ralph Worrall.

Left behind to remember him fondly are his wife, Connie Moore; his children, Nikita Moore (Dan); Austin Moore (Emily), and Chase Moore; his five grandchildren, Leeanne, Eva, Kaylie, Layla, and Kiana; his stepchildren, Ryanna and Jace; his stepmother, Betty Ann; stepbrothers, Blaine and Jay. He will be remembered and greatly missed by many friends and extended family members.

If there was a bush, a river, or a golf course, calling his name that’s where you would find him, he had a great love for the outdoors and keeping his tan all year long.

Special thanks to the palliative care team at the Grey Nuns Hospital, the Morinville Home Care Team, and his family doctor.

November 15, 1945 ~ September 17, 2026

Georgina Melnyk, age 80 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Sturgeon Community Hospital, surrounded by friends and family, after a short battle with lung cancer.

Truly the life of the party, Georgina was known for her vibrant style and an unmistakable, howling laugh you could hear from a mile away. She loved classic country music, dancing, sitting around the campfire, and enjoying a white rum and Pepsi with those she loved. Some of her happiest times were spent traveling to Mazatlán with her husband, Lorne, in their motorhome. A devoted wife, a great friend, and the absolute funnest Baba, her unforgettable energy will be deeply missed.

Georgina is predeceased by her beloved husband of over 60 years, Lorne Melnyk; her brother, David Pearce; and her parents, Cyril and Ruby Pearce.

She will be lovingly remembered by her six grandchildren, Bret (Holly) Laursen, Craig (Claire) Laursen, Marie (Nathan) Jarema, Kalin, Ty, and Avery Melnyk; her nine great-grandchildren, Parker, Asher, Madelynn, Mitchell, James, Henley, Erik, Luke, and Mya. She also leaves behind her brothers, Robert Pearce and Ernie (Linda) Pearce; sisters, Laura Pearce and Joy Franiel; sister-in-law, Carol Pearce; along with many dear friends and extended family.

Social Gathering
Sunday, October 4, 2026
at 1:00pm
Gibbons Community Cultural Centre
5115 51 Street
Gibbons, Alberta

Inurnment
Georgina will be inurned at Beechmount Cemetery
12420 104 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta

In Loving Memory of
Reverend Bill Brown
March 4, 1934 – September 6, 2026

In his final days, surrounded by his loving family and many dear friends, Bill completed his earthly journey at the age of 92 and entered the loving embrace of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, John and Marjorie Brown; his sister, Oralee Kozak; Gerda, his first wife of 62 years; and his two children, Dawn A Lee and Daniel.

Bill will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his loving and devoted wife, Barbara Taylor; his son, Kerry (Susan); and his daughter-in-law, Sandy. He will also be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Lindsay; David (Lindsay), John (Stacey), Micah, Robin (May Linn), Daniel Jr. (Jennifer), Alison (Aaron), Joshua, and Andrew. His great-grandchildren—Isaiah, Sadie, Caleb, Titus, Nora, Kaia, Matteo, Avery, Cohen, James, Jason, Cassian, and Wesley—will carry his memory and legacy into future generations.

Bill possessed a presence as unforgettable as the life he lived—a life filled with passion, purpose, faith, and adventure. As a pastor and missionary, he lived and served in Africa and Mexico and travelled to many countries around the world, loving people and sharing the good news of life in Christ.

He will be remembered for his deep love for the Church, his commitment to training Christian leaders around the world, and his remarkable ability to be a true and faithful friend to people from every walk of life. Above all, his family knew him as a loving, devoted, fun-loving, and wonderfully unforgettable husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

A Celebration Of Life
Thursday, September 24, 2026
at 11:00 AM
St. Albert Alliance Church
200 Villeneuve Rd
St. Albert, Alberta

February 19, 1943 ~ September 3, 2026

It is with great sadness and broken hearts, the family of Maurice Gerard Bilsborrow, announce his passing on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at the age of 83 years.

Growing up, Maurice worked on his family’s farm east of Leduc, where his love of the countryside and a strong work ethic took root

On June 4, 1965, he married Betty-Anne, and together they moved to Gibbons and built a life and family. Maurice worked hard to provide for those he loved. Over the years, he co-owned a hauling company, drove tow truck, installed siding and soffit, and eventually found the work he enjoyed most—operating tower and mobile cranes throughout the Edmonton area.

Maurice helped shape Edmonton’s skyline, working on many buildings in the downtown core, including the Hotel Macdonald. He even made the news for decorating his cranes with Christmas trees and lights, bringing a little joy high above the city. His skill and care as an operator did not go unnoticed. On one occasion, a woman cleaning windows on a neighbouring building thanked him for the care and attention he showed while safely manoeuvring his crane around her as she dangled high above the ground.

After his childhood family farm was sold, Maurice deeply missed the peace and quiet of country life. He and Betty-Anne eventually purchased a piece of land six miles north of Redwater. It became their home away from home—a place filled with family gatherings, laughter, memories, and enough potatoes, it seemed, to nourish half of Alberta.

Maurice was, above all, a devoted family man. There was little he wouldn’t do for his children, Mark and Jody, and their families, as well as for the countless friends and relatives who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.

He loved camping, the great outdoors, and fishing with his many friends—although, as the years went by, some of those fishing tales became exactly that… “stories.”

Maurice loved to joke, tease and play pranks on his family and friends. But more than anything, he treasured simply spending time with the people who mattered most to him.

The final ten years of Maurice’s life brought many challenges, which he faced with remarkable strength and determination. To his family, he will forever remain their hero—not only for all that he endured throughout his life, but for the lessons, strength and love he continued to give, right until the very end.

Even when words became difficult, Maurice still found ways to let us know he was there—with that little grin, a blink, or the unmistakable raise of an eyebrow.

Those small gestures said so much.

They reminded us that through every challenge, he was still Dad. Still Maurice. Still the man we knew and loved.

Maurice, at the age of 7, lost his beloved Mother, Diana Hinse (born in Ste. Julie, Quebec), then his Father, Edward Bilsborrow (born in Kirkham, England) in 1974. Maurice is predeceased by his sisters Dolores and Bernice, as well as many other dear friends and relatives. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Betty-Anne Myrna (nee Diewert) Bilsborrow, and their two fur babies Bam Bam and Pebbles. Betty-Anne and their loving family were by his side throughout Maurice’s final days: son, Mark & wife Tania (Becker) Bilsborrow; Amber, Travis, Aria, & Violet; Cordel, Debbie, & Ivy; Breanne & Reese; MJ & Darienn; daughter, Jody & husband Jim Morrison; Brandyn, Danielle, Grayson, & Oliver; Dakota; Jesse, & Marina.

His hands helped build a city.
His hard work built a life.
His humour gave us countless stories.
And his love built a family.

That will be his greatest legacy.

Celebration of Life
Friday, September 11, 2026
at 2:00 pm
Sturgeon Memorial Funeral Chapel
5016 47 Avenue
Bon Accord, Alberta

July 19, 1947 – August 23, 2026

Don Lowry, age 79 years, of Sherwood Park, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Don was born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, he was deeply involved in his community throughout his life. Don was a longtime member of Rotary and The Salvation Army.

Don is survived by his son, Michael; as well as many extended family members and friends.

Don was predeceased by his daughter, Erin, and his wife, Janet.

Don will be remembered for the music he loved, his lifetime of service to his community, and his questionable choice of hats.

Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rotary Club of Sherwood Park and/or
The Salvation Army Edmonton Temple in Don’s memory.

Celebration of Life
Saturday, September 19, 2026
at 1:00 pm
The Salvation Army Edmonton Temple
9115 75 Street NW
Edmonton, Alberta

It will also be live-streamed through the church.

August 3, 1950 – August 25, 2026

Don William Zinnick, age 76 years, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the Westlock Hospital on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

He was born in Edmonton, Alberta, to Frank and Anne Zinnick (née Bilaway). Don spent 42 years working at the Redwater Fertilizer Plant before his retirement in 2011. Outside of work, he was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt and camp alongside his sons, family, and close friends. Always generous with his time and skills, Don was the first to offer his expertise, an extra set of hands or step in to help with any construction project or household task. His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his family, and he was lovingly known as Gedo to his grandchildren.

Don is lovingly remembered by his wife of 54 years, Linda Zinnick (née Schneider); his children, Lee (Christine) Zinnick, Jamie (Hollie) Zinnick, and Ted (Allison) Zinnick; his sister, Donna and brother, Dale. He is also deeply missed by his seven cherished grandchildren, Dorian, Ariel, Jasmine, Matthew, Calvin, Kianna, and Drew. His memory will also be cherished by his siblings-in-law, nieces, nephews, a large circle of close friends, extended family, and his former co-workers. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Anne.

Don and his family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who reached out to contact or reconnect with him over his final weeks. He loved having those conversations with those he loved and cared about and it meant more to him than you can know.

Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Don’s honour to
the Bon Accord Rescue K9 Society (BARKS Animal Rescue) online at
helpbarks.ca or by mail to PO Box 162, Bon Accord, Alberta, T0A 0K0.

A Celebration of Life
Saturday, September 12, 2026
at 1:00 pm
Bon Accord Community Hall
4909 50 Avenue, Bon Accord, Alberta.

January 09, 1945 – August 19, 2026 (81 years)

Anne passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, surrounded by her family and friends. Beloved wife of Cyril for 47 years; cherished mother of Scott (Darcey) and Ryan (Leihan); loving nanny of Hayden (24), Emma (22), Corey (22), Oliver (17), Samantha (15) and Crosby (12). Survived by her sisters, Joan (Bernie), Elizabeth (the late Gerard Barron) and Gladys (Philip); her brothers, Denis (Wendy), Gerard (the late Margie Wakeham), John, Greg and Gary. Predeceased by her parents, Gregory and Gladys (née Hickey) Ryan.

Born on January 09, 1945, in St. Kyran’s, Newfoundland, Anne grew up in Freshwater. It was not that long after meeting Cyril at a dance when they married in December 1969. Ontario saw them start a family. First was Scott in 1971 (Ottawa) and Ryan followed in 1974 (Kingston). Their time in Ontario was brief. Edmonton (1976-1980), Newfoundland (1980-1982), Edmonton (1982-1983) and Nova Scotia (1983-1988) all followed. In 1988, they ended their nomadic lifestyle and stayed in the Edmonton area until her passing.

Although certainly proud of her long career with the Royal Bank, Anne’s true passion was her family. She was deeply devoted to Cyril and sacrificed much to take care of him especially as his health declined. The same was true for her two sons. Not a day went by where she didn’t worry about their health, their careers, their marriages or their children. Anne was a deeply loyal and devoted friend and there was nothing she would not do for those she cared for. She loved Bingo, darts, the occasional trip to a casino, a spirited game of cribbage or 120s or just visiting with her friends from the Legion. Even as her own health declined, she would make a point to phone her sisters, her brothers, her cousins and her friends to check-in and see how they were doing.

A good friend, a loving sister, a devoted wife and mother. Anne will be deeply missed.

Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the
Cross Cancer Institute
or
any organization that is fighting the good fight against lung cancer.

Memorial Mass
Thursday, August 27, 2026
at 11:00 AM
St. Jean Baptiste Parish
10034 – 100 Avenue
Morinville, Albert

Celebration of Life
Thursday, August 27, 2026
1:00 PM –4:00 PM
Morinville Legion
10120 – 101 Avenue
Morinville, Alberta

* Anyone who knew Anne knows she liked to have a “bite to eat” and visit with friends. It would make her smile if you can join her family at the
Morinville Legion for refreshments and fellowship.

October 6, 1946 ~ June 16, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our mom on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the age of 79 years old.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Karen and Shelley (Chris); granddaughter, Shayna; as well as family and friends.

She was a devoted wife, mom, and grandma, and will be forever missed. We were very fortunate that she was a stay-at-home mom and able to take part in our many activities. She volunteered with our softball games and made her famous poppy seed cake for the countless bake sales. We will cherish all the happy memories we were blessed to have made together.

In her earlier years, mom loved to bike around town, ice skate, and play softball. She also liked reading, bingo, 790 CFCW, CTV news, and the Edmonton Oilers. You would often see her on the front step with her coffee, word search, or newspaper; giving a friendly wave as people went by; as well as enjoying the visits from her numerous furry friends.

Sylvia was predeceased by her husband, Orest;, her parents, and 2 sisters.

As per her wishes, no service will be held.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the
Heart and Stroke Foundation in memory of Sylvia.

August 4, 1950 – October 17, 2025

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, David Champis. He sadly left us October 17, 2025, at the age of 75 years.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy; his children, Shaunda (Andrew) and Michelle (Christopher); sisters, Barbara (Reini) and Mary Ann (Kevin); grandchildren, Rhys, Mason and Jonah; as well as numerous extended family and friends.

He is proceeded by by his parents, Louis Champis and Magdalene Gorcsi; brother and sister in law, Louis and Anne Champis.

Dave was born in Brantford, Ontario on August 4, 1950. In 1976 Dave moved to Alberta, where he pursued a career as a machinist.

Dave moved with his family to Gibbons in 1983. He gave many hours volunteering for the community and in particular the Gibbons Legion. He was well known for his talent of playing accordion. Whether with his band, a sing a long at the seniors lodge, or with a gathering of friends, Dave would bring smiles to all.

In 2010, David moved to Redwater where he spent his retired days keeping busy with mowing grass, clearing sidewalks and his favourite thing watching NASCAR on Sundays. 

Dave will be greatly missed by his family and friends. 

Celebration of Life
Friday, August 7,2026
At 1:00 pm
The Dew Drop Inn
4539 49 Street
Gibbons, AB