Obituary - Elmer Nieman

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Elmer Emile Nieman, a devoted husband, loving dad and papa. Heaven welcomed a wonderful and gentle man on the evening of Father's Day, June 21, 2009. Elmer is survived by his wife of 64 years, Madge; children, Bob Nieman of Medicine Hat, Debbie (Brian) Carlin of Calgary and David (Rita) Nieman of Millarville; grandchildren, Jodie, Tamara (Brad), Jillaine, Brent (Lynsey), Blair and Stacy; step-grandchildren, Mike, Pat and families; great-grandchildren, Rylund, Brooklyn, Treyden, Carlin, Jorja and Caden will all miss their sweet Papa. Elmer always had a fondness for his cousin, Winnie Anderson of Medicine Hat. He was predeceased by his son Larry in 1975; his parents, Mamie and Amile; brother, Eugene and cousin Evult (who Dad loved and considered his older brother). Elmer was born on May 31, 1922 and raised in Medicine Hat. He served in WWII with South Alberta Regiment. It was during a leave in England where he met his future bride and the love of his life, Marjorie Tong. Upon settling in Medicine Hat, Elmer started his railroad career first working as a brakeman and then later as a conductor. Together with Madge, their marriage was blessed with four children, Bob, Larry, Debbie and David. Dad was a loyal employee with the CPR for over 36 years. Retirement brought much enjoyment with wood-working, tending his greenhouse, travelling in his motor home with the Good Sam's, and spending quality time with many good friends and family. Dad was a friend who could always be counted on. Thursday afternoons was a time he always looked forward to, being with the boys at the Pensioner's Club. Dad, you showed so much strength and determination, you loved us so much. We will miss you deeply, love you always, and keep our memories close to heart. Special thanks to Dr. Tom Mohanraj and staff, Dr. W. Taylor and Staff, for all their special care and kindness shown to Dad. As well, thank you to the nursing staff on 5E and 6W of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for your care and compassion during Dad's brief stay. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 - 13th Street S.W., on Thursday, June 25, 2009 from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. A Celebration of Elmer's life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel on Friday, June 26, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend James Farrell officiating. Interment will follow in the family plot at Hillside Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Elmer's name, because of his love of animals, especially dogs, may be made directly to the S.P.C.A., 55 Southwest Drive, S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 8E8.