HAYES Evelyn

FERN EVELYN (BRANDON) HAYES, of Lethbridge, passed away with her family at her side on Monday, April 7th, 2014 at the age of 83 years. Fern is survived by her loving husband of 62 years Tom, two daughters, Crystal (Stan) Yuszko of Fernie, B.C. and Leah (Kevin) Heppler of Sundre, Alta., two grandchildren, Tylee (Chad) Mariak (and their daughter Harwyn) of Innisfail, Alta, and Nikka (Travis) Wood of Sundre, one brother, Harland (Bertha) Brandon of Lethbridge; one sister, Gloria (Bob) Smith of Lethbridge; as well as Stan Jr. (Sadi) Yuszko, Stephanie (Pat) Keller, George (Annette) Hayes, Howard (Kathy) Dell, and many nieces and nephews. Fern was a woman quick to dance or laugh despite her battle with Alzheimer’s. She was a compassionate, thoughtful and honourable woman who loved her family and animal companions, especially her dog Bixby. Her love of life and people touched the lives of all those who knew her. Her quiet courage, strength of spirit, creativity and sense of humour will be carried forward by those who knew and loved her. Mom had many fond memories of her childhood and family growing up at Crystal Lake Ranch and playing baseball. She worked side by side with Tom. She drove gravel trucks and had 23 mailing addresses the first year of marriage. Proud of her Norwegian heritage she often used the phrase "Uff-da". She was an avid baker — her specialty — Lefsa and apple pies. She enjoyed her large garden, orchard and preserved hundreds of quarts each year. She was especially fond of Christmas. Fern enjoyed dancing, music, crafts, snowmobiling, camping and playing Skip-Bo. In the latter years she loved to have her daily shot of rum. Family was very important to her as she was to them. She loved slipping her two special granddaughters some loot. We are blessed that Dad took such loving care of Mom. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 — Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge on Saturday, April 12th, 2014 at 1:00 P.M., with Reverend Bob Wallace officiating. In memory of Fern, contributions may be made to The Alzheimer Society, #402, 740 — 4th Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0N9 or to The Humane Society, Box 783, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 3Z6