Hanna Funeral Services Ltd.

03/09/2026

Just A Reminder! Navigating Grief Seminar - "What Is Going On In My Heart"
All Are Welcome. Free Event.

03/04/2026

Forever Remembered ~ Earl Thomas Liddicoat
1944~2026, Lived 81 years
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Earl Liddicoat.

Earl was born on July 15, 1944, to Pearl and Charles Liddicoat in Drumheller, Alberta, where he grew up before moving to Hanna as a young adult. He was the baby in the family, having four older siblings: his brother Orville and sisters: Irene, Verna and Hazel. Earl became quite the comedian with a gifted sense of humour as a young kid. When asked a couple years ago about being a comedian, he said “well no one in the family was one and I figured I better pony up and be the funny one now, plus it made it easier to get out of trouble too.”

Earl moved out of his parent’s house at a young age, and on his own in this world, he would spend his days going to school, walking to McLeans to work after hours and spending a full day there where officially started his journey path as a tireman. He would head home afterwards nearing midnight to do his schoolwork, have a late supper and get his couple hours of sleep and repeated the schedule every single day till he graduated from high school in class of 1962.

He met the love of his life Gail Johnson one day while she was at a park in Drumheller and asked her if she would love to get a pop with him at the time and the rest was history. They got married on July 17,1965, two days after he turned 21 as that was the first Saturday of his legal age so he can sign for himself on the marriage certificate and get his liquor licence too. Soon after, they made their trek to Hanna, Alberta to continue his career path as a professional tireman, which further led the path of taking ownership and running Hanna Tire Service Ltd.

They were blessed with their first son Curtis Liddicoat in November 1966 and a few years later their second and last son Colin in August 1970. Earl truly blossomed when becoming a father and being the absolute best one there ever was. He and the boys became super involved in sports. Growing up, Earl was a goalie in hockey, back catcher in fast ball (he was actually approached to go play in the USA) and broom hockey. So, there was no thought for the young boys to follow in his footsteps too with baseball and hockey. It made for some very busy days and weekends travelling in the hockey bus driven by Gail and Earl. Also becoming the coach and later becoming presidents of both Hanna Minor Hockey and Hanna Minor Ball Association. They wouldn’t have wanted their busy active lives any other way.

Earl dedicated countless hours to volunteering within his community, offering not only his time but also his financial support. He was involved with many events and groups. He was a longtime member of the Hanna Elks Branch No.451, eventually rising through the ranks to serve as Exalted Ruler.

His true calling and favourite title of them all, came to be when his first grandson James was born and instantly got the name papa. Becoming a papa was one of his greatest joys and biggest blessings in life. Over the course of the next few years, he was blessed with three more grandkids: Mercedes, Brianna and Jacob. Earl and Gail were especially blessed with having Mercedes and Brianna live down the street from them throughout their childhood. Earl was the kind of papa who always included all the kids in fun activities, like go-karting in Drumheller during Michichi camping trips, finishing with a pit stop at DQ. Earl may have learned there’s no such word as “no” to the grandchildren. He always said yes, no matter what the idea, thought or adventure it may be. (Even if it was taking one of the grandchildren out fishing with their Mickey Mouse Clubhouse fishing rod with absolutely zero experience.)

As he grew older, he could often be found relaxing in his rocking chair in his man cave, watching Calgary Flames or Toronto Blue Jays games. Although there was sometimes yelling and hollering down there, the memories made in that room with friends and loved ones were among his happiest times.

Earl was able to come back and spend the last of his days here in Hanna’s Long Term after spending a few weeks in Drumheller Long Term Care. He was able to pass in the most perfect and peaceful way with his family by his side, the sports channel on Sunday March 1,2026, at 81 years of age. This is exactly how he would have wanted it, and we cherish that memory.

Earl is survived by his loving wife Gail Liddicoat of 60 years; sons Curtis and Colin (Raelene) Liddicoat; grandchildren: James, Mercedes (Ben) Liddicoat, Brianna Liddicoat, and Jacob Liddicoat; many nieces and nephews; and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

He is predeceased by his parents Charles and Pearl Liddicoat and all of his siblings: Orville Liddicoat, Irene Duncan, Verna Barabe, Hazel Harrison.

We sincerely thank all the staff at Hanna Hospital for treating us with exceptional care and warmth, making us feel like part of their family. Our gratitude also extends to the teams at Drumheller’s Long Term Care and Hanna’s Long Term Care. We are especially grateful to our wonderful customers, family members, and friends for their support and kindness throughout Earl's final years. Your love and encouragement meant the world to us. We cannot adequately express our appreciation for everything you have done for us. Thank you.

Here’s to you Earl. May you rest easy now. Cheers to an incredible life.

A Come & Go Gathering will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Hanna Legion. We invite you to join us in celebrating Earl's life by visiting and sharing your memories; please note that there will be no formal program.
In lieu of flowers and if desired, donations in Earl’s memory can be made directly to Harvest Sky Animal Rescue, Box 2126, or to the Hanna Food Bank, Box 1613, Hanna, AB, T0J 1P0.
Hanna Funeral Services was entrusted with the care and arrangements, 403-854-5956, www.hannafuneral.ca.

02/24/2026

In Loving Memory ~ Wesley (Wes) Joseph Kohlman
1940-2026, Lived 85 Years
The Story of Wes
Wes was born August 11, 1940, near Cactus Lake, Saskatchewan - the middle of eleven children. His family eventually relocated to Ponoka, where Wes began school.

He was a strong athlete, playing on both the senior basketball and baseball teams at St. Anthony’s and later played with two of his brothers on the Ponoka Stampeders Baseball team.

Wes finished his education in Edmonton and then attended St Joseph’s Seminary for about 3 years.

While he was on leave from St Joseph’s Wes took a temporary job with Alberta Treasury Branch - which he retired from 35 years later. Wes started with Inspection department in Edmonton, then was transferred to Wainwright where he met and married Paulette. They moved many times over the years as their family grew to include Eric and Keith. But of all the places they lived, home to them was always Wainwright and Hanna. While working for ATB in Hanna, Wes was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Board. Wes always strived to serve his community well, treating staff and customers with respect and kindness. While manager of ATB Wainwright, Wes was very involved in The Way of The West, a project that was near and dear to his heart.

Before their boys were born, they enjoyed many happy times hunting, fishing and camping with Paulette’s family. Later with his sons Wes coached baseball and was very involved with minor hockey.

Wes travelled a lot as a Bank Inspector, and often Paulette and the boys would accompany him in the family trailer. As the years passed golf became another happy pursuit, making lifelong friends and memories at league and tournaments.

Wes enjoyed travel with his extended family, joining Paulette’s parents in Arizona in the late ‘70s. This soon became an annual tradition. They met so many good friends and had great adventures along the way.

In later years, Wes became very interested in his “Germans from
Russia” heritage. He did a great deal of research on his family history and enjoyed travelling to Genealogy Conventions in the US.

During the last two years at Hanna Long Term Care, Wes continued to make new friends with the residents and staff. He enjoyed his afternoon crib games with Paulette (often winning and always noticing any miscounted points); as well, the many activities provided by the Recreation Department.

On Monday February 16, 2026, Wes peacefully passed away with his loved ones by his side at the Hanna Long Term Care.

Wes is survived by and will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Paulette, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. He is also survived by his sons, Eric and Keith (Ashley), and grandchildren: Gillian, Lena, Hayden, Ethan, Annie, and Oliver. His siblings: Dellah, Nick, Jim, Theresa, Barb, Annette, and their families also survive him.

He was predeceased by his parents Nicholas and Mary; siblings: Denis, Deana, Agnes and Mary Ann.

Respecting Wes’s wishes, no funeral service will be held.

If desired, donations can be made in Wes’s memory to the Hanna Ladies Auxiliary, Box 23 Hanna, Alberta, T0J 1P0.

Hanna Funeral Services Ltd. was entrusted with the care and arrangements, 403-854-5956, www.hannafuneral.ca.

02/23/2026

In Loving Memory ~ Audra Lee West (Kawka)
April 19, 1966 ~ December 27, 2025
Obituary ~ It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Audra Lee (Kawka) West, who left us unexpectedly on December 27, 2025, at the age of 59.

Audra was born in Unity, Saskatchewan, on April 19, 1966. Later that same year, her family moved to Hanna.

Throughout her life, Audra pursued several career paths, specializing in First Aid instruction and providing care for adults with challenges. She was known for her generous heart and her passion for animals, especially cats.

Audra is predeceased by her parents, Michael and Doreen Kawka.

She leaves behind many who will deeply miss her playful laugh and beautiful smile.

No public service will be held at this time.

In Audra's memory, donations can be made to any local animal shelter.

02/20/2026

Grief Support Program for Children in Hanna:
-Ages 10-12
- Starting Tuesday March 10, 2026, 3:30 - 4:30 pm (after school)
-12 week program
- J.C.C School Classroom
- Snack provided
-Contact Tara at 403-443-0304 to register
You are also welcome to call or text Laurie from Hanna Funeral Services 403-854-0912 for more information. If there is more interest for other age groups, this program may be offered again in Hanna.

02/13/2026

02/05/2026

Healing The Hurt - Grief Seminar In Hanna❤️❤️‍🩹
We invite you to a meaningful, informative seminar to provide support to families and individuals who are grieving.

The keynote speaker, Todd Reinholt, is a Certified Funeral Celebrant, Grief Recovery Specialist and Licensed Funeral Director who presents grief seminars to communities all across North America. This compassionate 90-minute seminar offers a safe space for families to better understand their grief. Todd's sessions are consistently described as comforting, informative, and deeply relevant.

Hanna Funeral Services is honoured to offer this support to the community. Special thanks to the Town of Hanna for supporting this event. For more information call or text Laurie at 403-854-0912.

01/16/2026

In Their Footsteps…Until You’ve Sat In The Front Row 💓

People mean well.
They offer advice.
They tell you how strong you are.
They say things like “they’d want you to be happy,” or “at least they’re not suffering.”
They talk about closure. About moving on. About staying positive.

But here’s the thing—
Until you’ve sat in the front row at a funeral…
Until you’ve looked at a casket and felt like the world cracked open…
Until you’ve had to stand there and say goodbye when you weren’t ready—
You don’t really know.

You don’t know how grief rearranges every part of you.
You don’t know how long the silence lasts after everyone else goes back to normal.
You don’t know what it’s like to carry someone in your heart because you can no longer carry them in your life.

So, if you haven’t been there yet, I’m truly glad.
I hope that day doesn’t come for you for a very, very long time.
But please—
Don’t tell me how I should be grieving.
Don’t tell me what joy should look like right now.
Just sit with me. Walk beside me.
Or let me be.

Because unless you’ve sat in the front row…
You don’t get to hold the mic.
Written by: Aimee Suyko - In Their Footsteps

01/16/2026

Lovingly Remembered ~ Dorothy Orr
1932~2026
Please keep Dorothy's family in your thoughts and prayers.
An updated obituary will be provided when the family are able.

01/07/2026

Forever Loved & Forever Missed ~Jenelle Elizabeth Lowther (O'Harrow)
1983~2026, Lived 42 Years
Obituary ~ With profound sorrow, Jenelle Elizabeth Lowther’s family announces her passing on January 2, 2026, at the Drumheller Health Centre. Jenelle was 42 years old, and her loss is deeply mourned by all who loved and cherished her.

Jenelle Elizabeth (O’Harrow) Lowther was born on June 8, 1983, in Cranbrook, British Columbia. Growing up, Jenelle spent much of her early life traveling around Western Canada with her musician parents and her siblings. Her brother Brandon accompanied her on these journeys, and, later, her brother Shawn joined the family. During the summers, her sister Krista also traveled with them, making it a true family adventure on the road.

Jenelle’s first home was in Edberg, Alberta, where she lived for about a year before the family moved to Youngstown, Alberta. After another year, the family relocated to Roselynn, Alberta, where they spent approximately three years. It was during this time in Roselynn that Jenelle began kindergarten in the town of Hanna. The family then returned to Youngstown, where Jenelle attended Grades 1 through 9. For high school, she transferred to J.C. Charyk School in Hanna, where she completed Grades 10 through 12, graduating in Hanna.

Driven by a desire to see more of the country, Jenelle began working for a magazine company, selling subscriptions across Canada for a few months. She quickly proved herself to be a natural salesperson, she could sell ice cubes to Eskimos!

During this period, Jenelle met Greg Burns, and together they had twin girls, Brooke and Angelina. Tragically, the twins were born three months prematurely, and Angelina passed away after just two days. The following years were extremely difficult for Jenelle, but she remained dedicated to being involved in Brooke’s life.

In 2007, Jenelle began working at Hanna Long Term Care, where she eventually became a Health Care Aide (HCA). This role was a testament to her caring nature and her commitment to helping others.

Jenelle married Joe Lowther in 2015. Alongside her ongoing work as an HCA, she pursued various entrepreneurial ventures. At one point, she sold Younique makeup and later started her own jam and jelly business. After some time, Jenelle and her husband Joe launched J + J Property Management, a company they ran together. Most recently, she enjoyed doing nails for friends and family, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail.

Throughout her life, Jenelle threw herself wholeheartedly into every endeavor. Her entrepreneurial spirit kept her busy, and she touched the lives of everyone around her with her radiant smile and caring heart.

Jenelle’s memory will be cherished forever by her devoted husband, Joe Lowther, and her daughter, Ashton (Brooke Endora) Burns. She is also survived by her parents, Mike and Fran O’Harrow, as well as her brothers, Shawn O’Harrow and Brandon O’Harrow, and Brandon’s wife, Sarah, along with their children Kyran and Aaliyah. Her sister, Krista, also mourns her loss.

She was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Angelina, and her grandparents.

Jenelle will remain in the hearts of those who knew her and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Hanna Community Centre in Hanna. Family, friends, and all whose lives Jenelle touched are welcome to join in remembering and honoring her.

For those who wish, donations in Jenelle’s memory can be made to the Canadian Cervical Cancer Organization (Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health), 780 Echo Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5R7.
More information is available on their website: https://survivornet.ca/cancer-type/cervical-cancer/canadian-cervical-cancer-organizations/.

Hanna Funeral Services Ltd. was entrusted with the care and arrangements, 403-854-5956, www.hannafuneral.ca.

01/06/2026

In Remembrance ~ Leslie Rae Storch (Les)
1954~2026, Lived 71 Years
Obituary ~ Leslie Rae Storch was born on June 22, 1954, to Willie and Florence Storch in the Buchan area north of Hanna. He was the younger brother of Donald and Edward.

He was home schooled before progressing to junior and senior high schools in Hanna. He later attended Olds College, followed by SAIT, where he earned his Red Seal certification and subsequently acquired his B Pressure ticket.

Throughout his life, Les was an active participant in the Garden Plains Community. He was a longstanding member of the Garden Plain Community Club and frequently contributed to various events such as ball tournaments, dances, and fall suppers. Even after relocating to town, he remained committed to community involvement and continued attending club meetings.

Les lived on the family farm until he sold the farm in 2016 and moved to Hanna. Les was a rancher all his life, but he also had other jobs that he enjoyed. He advanced to the role of manager at KFC, worked as a welder at Greenslades Northern Welding, and served as a laborer at Gladdish Construction, and he continued to help with Rays Construction.

He was a faithful, dedicated Lion member for 39 years. Les joined this organization in 1987, first the Hanna (Young) Lions and then transferred to the Morrin Lions Club when Hanna’s Lion’s Club folded. He served as District Governor in 2010 - 2011. Les travelled to many conventions all over the world and when Jessie and Les became a couple, they enjoyed attending these Lion’s events together.

Les loved to play baseball, go camping, and play cards. Jessie & Les spent many hours playing crib and canasta. They played in many crib tournaments in Drumheller. Leslie was a member of the Drumheller Legion Branch #22. He enjoyed helping the Town of Hanna out whenever possible. He was also available to help any farmer or friend with harvest, seeding and of course branding. Les loved fishing and would often go to Coronation and other areas around Alberta. Les had many interests - for a while he joined the Hanna Community Band.

His enjoyment of travel grew over the years, with a particularly memorable trip to Nova Scotia with Jessie.

Les passed away on January 1, 2026, at the Hanna Health Centre at the age of 71.

He will be missed by and is survived by his partner Jessie and her family, his brothers Donald and Edward along with their families, as well as many other relatives and friends, including members of the Lion’s Club.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, 1:00 p.m. at the Hanna Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Please keep the Storch family in your heart and prayers. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.hannafuneral.ca