Obituary - Tony-James Aasman

In his own words, 'I'm going to take this one for the team', and it is with heavy hearts that we announce that Anthony 'Tony' James Aasman, beloved husband of Jaylene and 'Dad' to Ryan and Jayna, peacefully passed away at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital while surrounded by his family and friends on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at the age of 47 years. Tony was born in Medicine Hat on January 20, 1961 and was welcomed by his parents, James and Jackie Aasman. He attended Riverside School, grades one through six and graduated from Crescent Heights High School. On September 5, 1987, he married Jaylene Lanz and recently celebrated their 21st anniversary. For a period of time, Tony worked along side his Dad as a painter and was a long time employee of Purolater Courier. During this time he met many people making deliveries and will be remembered for his jovial nature and someone who loved to talk. Tony had many interests which included music, football and of course, hockey. He served the community of Medicine Hat as an ambassador for the game of Hockey, and served well. He dedicated himself as a coach for many years and not only knew his stuff, but believed in the game. Tony was instrumental in developing young kids into strong athletes and this is supported by Ryan's success and those of many others Tony had coached. Tony held some very special memories which including winning the 1998-1999 Bantam AA playoffs, seeing his younger brother, Cal play for the Spokane Chiefs in 1987, the annual 'Puckmasters 4 on 4 Tourney' that he started 7 years ago and recently, the opportunity to coach the Tigers vs the Prince Albert Raiders in a charity event backed by the community. He was very proud of his family and marks the birth of his children, Jayna and Ryan as the most special times of his life. He was excited to see Jayna make the Volleyball team and Ryan be drafted into the WHL. Although the halls of the rinks won't be the same without Tony, his inspiration will carry on from generation to generation. Although he would say 'I'm the most blessed man on the face of the earth', it was Tony that blessed and enriched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, Jaylene (nee Lanz); children, Ryan and Jayna; parents, Jackie Aasman and John and Phyllis Lanz; a brother, Hank Aasman, sister, Nellie (Don) Hallett - Chantel (Mike Timchuk) and Josh; sister, Pat (John) Carpenter - Kristin (David Schlemko) and Chelbey; Cal (Cheryl) Aasman - Logan and Kayleigh and a brother-in-law, Troy (Sandra) Lanz - Tania and Tyson as well as many, many friends. Tony was predeceased by his father, James Aasman on Sept. 2, 1993 and a brother, Randy Aasman on November 5, 1972. In the spirit of Tony, we ask that you wear your favorite hockey jersey to the Celebration of his Life which will be held at the Kinplex, 2055 - 21st Ave. S.E., Medicine Hat on Monday, September 22, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor George Koopmans officiating. Private family columbarium placement will follow at Hillside Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Tony's name may be made directly to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, P.O. Box 20143, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 8M2, or the Canadian Diabetes Association, 102, 73 - 7th Street S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 1J2 or the Canadian Cancer Society, 102 Crestwood Square One, 1865 Dunmore Road S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 1Z8 or to Medicine Hat Minor Hockey, P.O. Box 21021 Rpo Crescent Hts. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 8M3.