DEGENSTEIN, Michael

MICHAEL DEGENSTEIN 1936 ~ 2026 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather, and friend, Michael Degenstein, on Friday, April 10, 2026. After a short battle with cancer, Michael passed away surrounded by his family at St. Michael’s Palliative Care at the age of 90 years.
Michael was born on January 4, 1936, to Peter and Agnes Degenstein, the youngest of eleven children.
Michael enjoyed cooking, baking and sewing. He continued crafting woodworking projects well into his 80’s. His children and grandchildren meant the world to him, you could feel the love and pride the moment you walked into his home, where the walls were filled with photos celebrating their lives and accomplishments.
Michael was a proud and active member of his community. He often rode his horses in parades in Calgary, Claresholm, Lethbridge, and Fort Macleod, and kept his own horses at the town pasture for many years. Animals were his passion, he especially loved his horses and dogs, and was known to have rescued many animals, even a gopher. His heart was truly pure.
Michael is survived by his children: Cindy (Gordon) Doram of Winfield, AB; Joann Silver of Coaldale, AB; Michael Degenstein of Lethbridge, AB; Shelley (Mike) Weidenfeld of Cowichan Bay, BC; and Tracey Van Hierden of Saskatoon, SK. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dane Doram (Christina Malmberg) of Winfield, AB; Bobbie Jo Doram (Brett Shipton) of Rocky Mountain House, AB; Rick Van Hierden (Kelly Michaud) of Regina, SK; Tiffany Weidenfeld (Nick Clark) of Victoria, BC; and Tyler Weidenfeld of Cowichan Bay, BC; as well as his great-grandchildren, Lillian and Madison Shipton.
Michael was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Agnes Degenstein; his wife, Patricia Degenstein; his son-in-law, Rick Van Hierden; his granddaughter, Brittany Van Hierden; and his grandson, Ryan Van Hierden.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta. A viewing and condolences will take place one hour prior at 12:00 p.m.
Interment to follow at Fort Macleod Cemetery.
Following the Interment, a time of fellowship and refreshments will take place at MA Catering Company Ltd & REO Hall, 470 17 St, Fort Macleod, Alberta.
For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the SPCA, 2920 16 Ave N, Lethbridge, AB T1H 5E9.
Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.