Maria Helene Olive (Tiny) Deere
(nee Landry)

May 24, 1928 - March 19, 2025

On Wednesday, March 19 at 10:25 pm, our Mom peacefully passed away at Tabor Home.
Tiny was born and raised in the French community of St Jean Baptiste, MB. “Olive” was her birth name but she quickly became “Tiny” when she arrived home from the hospital. Her brother was amazed that his new sister fit into a shoebox so immediately called her Tiny! She has proudly carried that name her entire life.

In 1948, it was at a small country dance hall called the Marais Memorial Hall, near Letellier, that she met a handsome farm boy, named Arnold Deere. He was from the 1-6 community south of Morden. Arnold told the friend he was with, “see that lady over there with the blue eyes, she is going to be my wife!” They married 1 year later and moved to the Deere family farm to start their life together.
It was an adjustment for her! She had been very spoiled, so life on the farm was a stretch for her. The beautiful long painted fingernails had to be cut for doing chores, along with her long dark curls of hair. Mom was a hard worker and wasn’t afraid of learning new things. Her love for cats was so strong and beautiful. Even until her last days, she talked about her kitties that she loved so much.
On September 27, 2024 Arnold passed away only six days after they celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary.
Mom was lost without him but she kept her faith, knowing they would be together again in heaven one day.

She has left behind her son Gordon and Lynn. Her daughter Gail and Dave. Grandson Brent and Jolene, with Great Granddaughter Shelby and their Granddaughter Kari.

Following Mom’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Cremation has taken place. A small family gathering will happen at a future date when we lay them both to rest at Wiebe’s Funeral Home Cemetery in Morden.

Should you wish, donations would be greatly appreciated made to Tabor Home in her honour.

Tabor Home has been their home for over 5 years. There are absolutely no words to express how grateful we are for each and every single person. The love, care compassion and tenderness you have shown is such a God given gift. Thank you so very much. I have grown very attached to you all. Please know that you are loved and appreciated more than you know.

To all my friends and family. Your prayers, love and support lifted me up daily. I am so grateful and blessed by your kindness. Thank you so very much.

To my husband Dave. You have been my rock! First Dad in September and now Mom. Every day you held me up when I couldn’t stand on my own. I feel a love from you that I have never felt before. Thank you Dave. I love you.

Mom and Dad we will miss you both. Thank you for everything. Rest in peace.
“It’s Happy Hour in Heaven!”

Robert James LaHaise of Grafton passed away in the early morning hours of March 18, 2025. 
Robert was born on July 15, 1943, to Joe and Edith LaHaise. He was one of five siblings and attended school in Oakwood. Robert was a devoted husband, a hardworking man and a cherished grandfather whose love and commitment to his family shaped the lives of those around him.
Born with a strong work ethic and a kind heart, he dedicated himself to his family and his work throughout his life. Robert was united in marriage to Marlene (Collette) LaHaise on August 22, 1964, in Grafton. Together with his wife, he built a home filled with warmth and laughter. His unwavering dedication to his family as well as his skill set in mechanics made him the man to call when anything needed to be fixed; “Bob will know how to fix it.”
Robert was a proud father and a devoted husband. His family knew him as a supportive and dependable figure, always willing to offer advice, a helping hand or simply a listening ear. There was nothing he loved more than a cup of coffee, a casino, a full toolbox or a cruise on his John Deere lawnmower. He was a true helper, willing to give the shirt off his back for those he loved.
All who had the privilege of knowing him will dearly miss Robert’s generosity and sense of humor. His presence was a source of comfort, and his absence leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of his family and friends. 
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Joanie; and his brother, Duane.  He is survived by his wife, Marlene; siblings, Bill, Rick and Jerome; his children, Loree (Bob) Osowski and Mark LaHaise; his grandchildren, Mark Jr., Ashley, Hunter, Elly, Stephanie and Brandon; along with several great-grandchildren. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons passed down and the love he gave so freely.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:30 AM at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Grafton.  Visitation will be for one hour prior the service at the church.  Interment will be at the St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in the spring.

Lanny W. Schweitzer
June 25, 1955 — March 17, 2025
Cavalier

​Lanny W. Schweitzer, 69, of Cavalier, ND passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND. 
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. 

Margaret "Peggy" Rose Lesniewski
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret "Peggy" Lesniewski on March 17, 2025. Born on May 15, 1939, in Adams, Minnesota, Peggy lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service to others.
Peggy was the beloved wife of the late Stanley Lesniewski, a devoted mother to Mark, Jonathan, and Jason Lesniewski, and a cherished grandmother to Kristi, Hunter, Charlie, Aaliyah, Liam, and Noah.
Peggy was an unwavering source of support, wisdom, and unconditional love. She consistently encouraged those around her to strive for excellence, regardless of the circumstances.
Peggy's passion for education defined her professional life. From her humble beginnings teaching in a one-room schoolhouse to her role as a respected principal, her career left an indelible mark on countless lives. She concluded her illustrious educational journey in Miami, where her innovative teaching methods and genuine care for her students inspired a love of reading in every child she taught. Peggy had a remarkable ability to make each student feel valued, loved, and important.
Beyond the classroom, Peggy's impact on the Miami community was profound. She played a pivotal role in establishing the local library, town council member and dedicated her time as a volunteer at the local train museum. Her home was always open, and she greeted everyone with a warm smile and a welcoming wave.
Peggy is survived by her sons: Mark and his daughter Kristi; Jonathan and his children Hunter, Charlie, and Aaliyah; Jason, his wife Lindsey, and their children Liam and Noah; and her sister Helen. She was preceded in death by her husband Stanley, her parents Charles and Helen, and her sisters Patricia and Judy.
Peggy's sweet and wonderful personality will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, guidance, and unwavering support will forever be cherished and remembered by those whose lives she touched.
A private family funeral service will be held at Doyle’s Funeral Home. In place of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the South Regional Library Miami Branch in Peggy's memory.

Jean E. Charbonneau
April 3, 1929 — March 17, 2025
Formerly of Pembina

​Jean E. Charbonneau, 95, of Pembina, North Dakota, passed away Monday, March 17, 2025, at Eventide in Fargo, ND. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Assumption Catholic Church in Pembina, ND with a rosary held at 10:00 a.m. 
Full obituary to follow. 

Johan (Jack) Klassen
June 30, 1959 - March 16, 2025

Johan (Jack) Klassen Age 65 Miami, MB
Johan (Jack) Klassen was born June 30, 1959, to Daniel P. and Gertrude (nee Dueck) Klassen at the Altona Hospital. He was the third child in the family and grew up on the farm south of Plum Coulee. He attended school in Plum Coulee and a short stint in MCI in Gretna.

He started working in the grain elevator system in Plum Coulee then Morden and later moved to Fannystelle. He retired from the elevator system in July of 2016. After a year of retirement, Jack took his Class 1 license and drove semi-truck until he got sick in October of 2024.

He married Sarah Friesen on August 8, 1981, and they were blessed with three sons. Chris in 1983, Curtis in 1985 and Matthew in 1988.

Jack was diagnosed with inoperable liver cancer in October 2024 and was admitted into Boundary Trails Health Center, then sent to the Health Science Center in November. He endured seven liver drain placements, two incisions to drain infections, and three debridements to clean the wounds. He fought hard but was never able to return home. He was transferred back to Boundary Trails where he stayed till his passing on March 16, 2025, at 5:15 pm.

Jack is survived by his wife Sarah, three sons and their families. And by his three brothers and two sisters and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, one sister-in-law, one niece and one great niece.

Thank you to all who prayed for the family, and the care from the staff at both HSC & BTHC. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Morden Friendship Center- 306 North Railway St in Morden with interment at the Froese family cemetery prior to the service.

Thank you from the Family

Wendell C. Martinson
August 16, 1929 - March 15, 2025

Wendell C. Martinson, age 95 of rural Hoople, ND passed away on March 15, 2025 at the Pembina County Memorial Hospital in Cavalier, ND, with his loved ones by his side. 
Wendell Cyril Martinson was born on August 16, 1929 in Grafton, ND to the late Olaf and Ida (Fagerholt) Martinson.  He was raised on the family farm in Hoople.  He graduated from Hoople High School and attended one year at NDSU.  Wendell was called to serve in the United States Marine Corp in October 1951.  He served his country until October 1956, when he returned home to Hoople.  He began working for Hoople Farmers Grain as their bookkeeper and assistant manager.
During an evening meal at Stan’s Café in Grafton, he met the love of his life, Janice Dalzell.  They were united in marriage August 12, 1960 in Walker, MN.  Together they made their home in Hoople.  Wendell took over the family farm in 1964 and farmed for the next 30 years. 
Wendell was a member of the Hoople American Legion and V.F.W. and past commander. He served on the Hoople Potato Products Board and the Hoople Farmers Grain Board.  Wendell obtained his private and commercial pilots licenses and enjoyed flying.  He was an avid reader and loved fishing.  Wendell and Janice restored many John Deere tractors in their retirement. 
Wendell is survived by his wife of 64 years, Janice; several nieces and nephews and many special friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Beatrice, Walter, Linda, Medvin, Alice, Adelyn, Helen, Mary Lou, and Glenn.  He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. 
Memorial services will be at a later date.

Margaret Rose Bluhm
January 26, 1941 - March 15, 2025


Margie Bluhm passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at the age of 84. Heaven gained another very special angel.


She was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Mary Bluhm, her sister and brother-in-law Esther and Pete Klassen, her brother and sister-in-law Norman and Anne Bluhm, her sister and best friend, Dorothy, her sister and brother-in-law Lorna and Ed Unger, her niece Mary Anne Klassen and great-great-niece Pearl Dyck.


Margie will be forever remembered by her special family – the staff and residents of Nelson Home as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.


The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Barb and all of the staff at Nelson Home as well as the residents for providing love, care and friendship to Aunt Margie for several years, The wonderful quality of life that she enjoyed there provided her with an amazing home.


Special thank you to Dr. Borchers for her exceptional care of Margie, to Wiebe Funeral Home and Pastor Tom Baker for your care and guidance.
Rest in peace, Aunt Margie. We love you and will miss you.


In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Margie’s memory to Gateway Resources.


A celebration of her life will be held on March 20, 2025, at 11 am at Wiebe Funeral Homes Chapel in Morden.

Edith I. Reynolds
August 15, 1938 — February 14, 2025
Osnabrock, ND

​Edith Irene Reynolds, 86, passed away at Essentia Health in Fargo, ND, on February 14, 2025. 
Edith was born August 15, 1938, in Finlayson, MN, to Aloysius and Elsie (Beck) Long. She was the youngest of five children. She grew up near Big Pine Lake west of Finlayson and later moved to Cloquet & Wrenshall, MN, then to Milton and Osnabrock, ND. She attended school in Finlayson, MN, and graduated from high school in 1956. Shortly after graduation, she met Carl Siam Jr., and the two were briefly married, and they had two children: Valerie and Roy. Edith later met Stephen Reynolds and was re-married in 1967.
Eventually in 1979, Edith and Steve moved to the Milton/Osnabrock area. Edith worked at the Osnabrock Good Samaritan Center. Edith was also involved in her local church from Osnabrock, Cavalier, and Langdon. She assisted as she was called upon. Even when she couldn’t attend in person, she did not miss watching remotely.
Edith enjoyed attending church, crocheting, and gardening. Over the years she made a blanket for all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren when born.
Edith is survived by her husband, Stephen Reynolds; children: Valerie Tillman and Roy (Carla) Reynolds; six grandchildren: Curtis (Stephanie), Crystal, Brandon (Becky), Jessica (Christopher), Cole, and Skyler; seventeen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; and her dear friends and neighbors in Cavalier and Pembina Counties in ND. Edith was preceded in death by her parents, Aloysius and Elsie Long; in-laws William and Mary Reynolds; brothers: Charles, Robert, and John; sister Sarah Mary Lou Ketter; two nephews, Paul and Dwayne Long; niece Barbara (Long) Swartz; and great-granddaughter Layla Ann Illikainen. 
A memorial service for Edith will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Brooks Funeral Home in Langdon, ND, with visitation starting at Noon.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our husband, father, and brother(in-law) Ronald Allen Stege. Ron passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 14, 2025 after a brief battle with cancer. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 50 years, Ruth, as well as his children Rachel and Robert. His absence will also be felt by his siblings and their loved ones – Dale Stege (wife Karen), Arleen Stege (daughter Ashley), and Terry Stege (wife Jo-Ann Kerda) – as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He goes up to meet those who passed on before him, including his parents William and Emily Stege, Ruth’s parents Frank and Mary Bargen, and brother-in-law Don Bargen, and nephew Chad Falk.


Ron was hardworking and had a number of careers that connected him to the community in Carman over the years: CIBC accountant, auditor and manager; the Carman Co-op as an accountant, manager of the machinery department, and the Co-op Gas Bar. He worked with Ruth’s brother Don Bargen at Elite Cellular and went on to purchase his own business, Carman Dry Cleaners. Always loving the farm life, we bought a homestead just northwest of Carman and Ron tried farming along with his regular work. Ron volunteered with the Dufferin Historical Museum for a number of years.


When Ron had more mobility, he loved camping and fishing but the best occupation was helping Ruth’s brother John and the guys on the farm, even after he’d retired. Once his health began to deteriorate, he found joy in bird-watching at the cabin, cooking all sorts of recipes, road trips out to Atikokan, and TV. Lots of TV. Lots of really loud TV (he wasn’t a fan of wearing his hearing aids). And a few times a year, especially at Christmas, Ron would pull out Ruth’s trusty old address book and start calling up friends and family for a good catch-up. Ron’s version of an address book would have been quite interesting, seeing as he didn’t actually call anyone by their actual names. He had a sharp sense of humour and was always ready with a joke. 


We already miss you, Ron.


The family greatly appreciates the care and support provided by the incredible staff at Carman Hospital, Boundary Trails, Cancer Care Manitoba, and Doyle’s Funeral Home.