FREDA “ANN” KANIG (NÉE BOWEN)

FREDA “ANN” KANIG (NÉE BOWEN)
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Freda “Ann” Kanig (née Bowen) of Foremost, Alberta, on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the AgeCare Riverview Facility in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Ann was born in Cardston, Alberta, on March 24, 1941, the daughter of Linnea and Latham Bowen, and grew up on the family farm in Del Bonita. As the oldest of five sisters, Ann was a nurturing presence, often taking on the role of second mother to her younger siblings.
Ann’s lifelong commitment to education began in her youth. She graduated as Valedictorian of Del Bonita High School in 1959 and went on to earn her Alberta Teacher’s Certificate in 1960. Ann’s teaching career took her across Canada, from Toronto to Moncton, New Brunswick, and back to Del Bonita, where she taught Grade 1 from 1964 to 1973. She furthered her education during the summer months to eventually earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
In 1972, Ann married Lawrence Kanig, and together they moved to Hoping, Alberta, and later to Foremost, where Ann taught Grade 4 until her retirement in 1995. Even after retirement, Ann’s passion for teaching remained strong. She continued to fill in at the County of Forty Mile Colonies from 1997 to 2007. Her love for education also led her to volunteer in the Outback of Australia, where she shared her knowledge and passion for learning with children in remote areas.
Ann was also a lifelong traveller, venturing far and wide with Lawrence in their Funcraft 350 Camper Van. Her travels took her around North America and across the globe – she visited Sweden with her mother and son Drew, where they connected with relatives on her mother’s side. Ann also travelled to Hawaii, Arizona, Myrtle Beach, and several other destinations with family. She was fortunate to visit her children in many parts of the world, including Alaska, France, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. A particular joy for Ann was beachcombing the small, remote communities along the BC coastlines.
Sports played a major role in Ann’s life. She enjoyed playing softball, curling, basketball, and golf; she was always the number one fan of her children and grandchildren, cheering them on at countless hockey, volleyball, basketball, softball game, figure skating and swim meets. Ann also supported local youth sports in Foremost, and she followed her grandchildren through their years of 4-H activities and plays.
Ann was deeply committed to her community. She served two terms on the Village of Foremost Council, coached school sports, and was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL). As the Coordinator of the local TOPS group, Ann was passionate about health and wellness and regularly opened her home for meetings. She also hosted foreign exchange students and university students working on their education practicums.
A creative soul, Ann spent countless hours crafting, making costumes for herself and her children, and enjoying time with her family. She found joy in puzzles, card games, and various artistic endeavors, including rug hooking and stained glass. Ann’s garden was a colorful testament to her nurturing nature, and Lawrence often framed the needlework she created.
Ann’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family, her students, and her community. She will be dearly missed by her children: Bridgette Donovan, Steve (Celia) Donovan, Derrick (Laurie) Donovan, Drew (Muriel) Donovan, and Melinda (Joe) Mastel; her beloved ten grandchildren: Roxanne Rupps (Nathan), Shawn Rupps, Nick Wirges, Joseph Mastel, Wade Mastel, Samuel Donovan, Khyle Donovan, Stephanie Donovan, Austin Mastel, and Marvin Donovan; her sisters: Marlene Bowen, Pat (Larry) Wilde, Pam (Ernie, deceased) Schellenberg, and Carrie (Rod) Wilson. Ann was predeceased by her husband, Lawrence, and her parents, Latham and Linnea Bowen.
A prayer service will be held at PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE in Medicine Hat on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Live streaming of the prayers will be available on our website. Please visit Ann’s obituary for the link. A celebration of Ann’s life will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP (Foremost) at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception at the Foremost Community Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta.
Ann’s impact on the lives of her family, friends, students, and all who crossed her path will never be forgotten. Her love, wisdom, and zest for life will continue to inspire all who knew her. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at AgeCare Riverview for their dedicated, 24/7 personal care of Ann, ensuring she was comfortable throughout. To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.

PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2