“He gave everything and asked for nothing in return.”
It is with profound sadness and dismay that we announce the sudden passing of Anthony Clive Stephens who was called to be with our Lord on March 4, 2016 while receiving emergency care at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, Alberta. Tony was blessed with 71 years of life.
Born on December 19, 1944 in Neath, Wales to proud parents, Dr. John & Nora Stephens. Tony developed an appreciation for family, faith and community. His parents valued education and Tony’s thirst for knowledge and skills were second nature. He grew into a dashing and energetic young man who captured the heart of a lovely and graceful young lady, Dicko Evelina Lotsberg. They pledged their love in holy matrimony on July 12, 1965 and were further blessed with four children who were raised with unconditional love. He was dedicated to his family’s well being and provided for their needs through hard work and devotion. He will be fondly remembered for his skills as an electronics technician – his ingenuity and method of invention astounded us all.
Tony had many passions including bicycling, reading, the sciences, astronomy, chess, reading, keeping abreast of current events (especially global warming), caring for his pets, strumming his guitar, swimming, scuba diving, lifeguarding, and most of all, spending precious moments with his family. As an advocate for social values and one who took a moral stand against substance abuse, he was always someone you could rely upon to help those in need. His devotion to our Saviour and the study of scripture were foremost in his life and he was truly an inspiration to all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of fifty years, Evelina Stephens of Pincher Creek, AB; his children, Mark (Eleanor) Stephens of Pincher Creek, Sunday (Michel Cuillerier) of Calgary, Lyla Stephens of Pincher Creek and Linda (Mike) Siewell of Oregon; his grandchildren, Dylan (Jillian), Mitchell, Naomi, Delon, Alana, Montana, Isaac, Laura-Lee, Caleb, Devlin, Chelsea (Logan); his siblings, Richard (Sandy) Stephens of Calgary and Vivienne (Fred) Dayley of Idaho; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family especially Zar Pauls, Daphne Stephens and Dariusz Delon.
He was predeceased by his father, Dr. John Clive Stephens; his mother, Nora Tonat; his brother, Knighton Stephens; his niece, Naomi Stephens; his great nephew, Jacob Rich; his father-in-law, Albert Lotsberg; his mother-in-law, Stella Lotsberg; and his sister-in-law, Diane Lotsberg.
The Funeral Services celebrating his life was held on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 1:00 pm in the First Baptist Church in Pincher Creek, AB with Rev. Dr. A. Christopher Smith officiating. Cremation followed at Fantin's Funeral Chapel’s private crematorium.
Donations in memory may be directed towards the Pincher Creek Library Fdn. or to the Humane Society (www.canadahelps.org). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.