It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Verlene Wakaluk of Hillcrest, AB who passed away on July 7, 2014 at the age of 77 years.
Verlene was born on January 27, 1937 in Cardston, AB to proud parents Frank and Mary Hill. Along with her siblings, she was raised to appreciate the rewards of hard work and the love and laughter of a happy home.
Verlene grew into a lovely young lady who won the heart of a handsome gentleman, Stan Wakaluk. The happy couple married on June 30, 1953 and were later blessed with two wonderful daughters. They adored each other throughout their entire marriage and spent endless hours enjoying their family, camping and socializing with friends.
Verlene took great pleasure in many activities including knitting, tending to her beautiful rose garden, watching “The Young and the Restless”, having coffee with friends at Tim Horton’s and walking with her good friend, Jean Makin, and she was a proud member of both the Bellevue Legion and the Hillcrest Miners’ Club. She faithfully kept a diary documenting the details of daily life; an enterprise that came in handy on more than one occasion! Verlene was extremely organized and kept an immaculate home. She took care of everyone who passed through her door and, whether it be feasting on her delicious perogies or her delectable pies, she made sure that no one left hungry. One of the highlights of Verlene’s day was talking to her daughter, Brenda, even if it was just to say hello. Verlene was a remarkable and caring person who treasured her family above all else and, in return, was treasured by them. She may be gone from our eyes, but she will remain forever in our hearts.
Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life include her cherished daughters, Linda (Kim) Scott of Lethbridge, AB and Brenda (Denny) Chambers of Bellevue, AB; her precious grandchildren, Crystal Arseneault of Lethbridge, AB, Billie-Jo (Ryan) Legroulx of Blairmore, AB, Melanie Arseneault of Coaldale, AB and Shawn (Janna) Ogertschnig of Lethbridge, AB; her great grandchildren, Sierra and Sydney Pakla, Alex Newman, Phoenix Cobey and Jade Legroulx; her sisters, Betty Anderson of Calgary, AB, Colleen (Ludwig) Schwarz of Lethbridge, AB, Loretta (Chuck) Amos of Calgary, AB and Susie (Gerald) Mottle of Calgary, AB; her brother, David (Kathy) Hill of Blairmore, AB ; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family; the many friends she made throughout her life and her beloved canine companion, Holly.
She was predeceased by her husband, Stan Wakaluk; her parents, Frank and Mary Hill; her infant sister, Theda Hill and her sister, Marie Wenisch.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Verlene will be gratefully accepted by the CNP Health Foundation (P.O. Box 510, Bag 1, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0) or the Alzheimer’s Society (402, 740 – 4 Ave. S., Lethbridge, AB T1J 0N9). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.