Obituary - Joyce Western

Joyce Edith Western, beloved wife of Donald Western, passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2008, at South Country Village, at the age of 72 years. Joyce was born on September 28, 1936 to Eleanor and Fredrick Holbrook at Eastend, SK. She attended school at Eastend, SK., and later in life, Robsart, SK. At the age of 9 years, Joyce lost her father to cancer. Her mother raised Joyce and Wayne by herself and Joyce babysat to help support the family. On March 31, 1959, she married the love of her life, Donald Western and they shared the next 49 years together. She was a devoted homemaker as they lived on the farm for 30 years before retiring to Medicine Hat in 1989. Joyce enjoyed the farm life and could not understand why anyone would not want to live on the farm. She was Donald's 'right hand man' on the farm and worked hard with him to build a good life for their family. She enjoyed many facets of the farm life, particularly the animals. She loved her cats and many would find a place in her house throughout the long cold winters. She was very family orientated and was thrilled with the arrival of her grandchildren. Tending her garden, doing puzzles, visiting with friends, baking and cooking as well as sewing and knitting were some of her favorite past times. Joyce leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Donald; sons, Earl (Kathy) and their children, Rachael and Lauryn; and Doug, along with his son Josh. As well, her brother, Wayne (Vicky) Holbrook; two sisters-in-law, Elva Bertsch and Amy (Floyd) Brusky; her aunt, Jessie (Walt) Hyshka and her nieces and nephews. Joyce was predeceased by her father, Fredrick Holbrook; mother and step-father, Eleanor and Fred Sailer; daughter, Karen Western and brother-in-law, Elmer Bertsch. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so during a time of visitation at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. The Funeral Service will be celebrated at the Wuerfel Auditorium, South Country Village, Medicine Hat on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Bob Findley officiating. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Joyce's name, may be made directly to South Country Village, 1720 Bell Street S.W., Medicne Hat, Alberta, T1A 5G2.