It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Neil Hazelton Schmaltz of Blairmore, AB on May 2, 2023. He was 67 years of age.
Neil was born in Swift Current, SK on December 22, 1955 and made the Crowsnest Pass, AB his home in June 1974. Here, he was able to enjoy his love of the outdoors and conservation through camping, fishing, and wildlife reporting. Over the years, he demonstrated his dedication to his coworkers and community as Union President at Summit Lime Works and as a Scout Leader with Boy Scouts of Canada. Neil also liked all things sci-fi, loved stamp and coin collecting, and created many cross-stich projects. Neil’s long, white beard delighted children young and old as they believed they were in the presence of Father Christmas and he was given the opportunity to represent Santa Claus for the local fire department for many years. Although he is gone from our lives, he will remain in our hearts.
Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life include his wife, Arla Schmaltz of Two Hills, AB; his children, Katherine Schmaltz of Lethbridge, AB and Joshua Schmaltz of Cranbrook, BC; his grandchild, Tyleigh Schmaltz; his brothers, Brian Schmaltz of Edmonton, AB, Wade Schmaltz of Edmonton, AB, Mark Schmaltz of Edmonton, AB and Doug Schmaltz of London, ON; his sisters, Dianne (Richard Mitchell) Schmaltz of Edmonton, AB and Nelda Schmaltz of Calgary, AB; as well as his extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Audrey and George Schmaltz.
A celebration of Neil’s life will be held at the Lethbridge Christian Tabernacle Church (1805 – 9 Ave. N., Lethbridge, AB T1H 1H8) on Saturday, June 10, 2023 from 1:00pm until 3:00pm. All who knew Neil are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555