Obituary - Gladys Valkenburg

July 17, 1938 - December 28, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beautiful Mom, Gladys Helen Valkenburg. She was born in Schuler on July 17, 1938, to proud parents, Reuben (Bertha) Beck and passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the age of 87 years. Gladys was predeceased by her loving husband, Don; beloved grandson, Danton as well as a sister, Jean Schile. Born in Schuler, she spent much of her youth helping care for her younger siblings, Brenda and Peggy. She loved to dance, cook and care for her family, and later on, travel with the love of her life. At the age of 17, she married Don Valkenburg on September 21, 1955. They were blessed with 63 beautiful years together full of love, laughter, travel and enjoying family time. Gladys was immensely proud of her two sons and all their accomplishments. She was always there to encourage their dreams and ambitions and worked hard to ensure they were able to attain them. Gladys was truly the best mother-in-law, offering constant support, help and a compassionate listening ear. Left to cherish Gladys’s memory are her two sons and their families: SON, Todd (Val) and their family, Danton † and Vanessa (Matt) Gagnon and their children, Jack, Logan and Lewis; SON, Kasey (Nadine) and their three daughters, Jazmin (Andrew) Junkin and their two children, J-Cee and Atlas; Aspen (Greg) Allsopp and Skylar (Jaren) Schile and their children, Nixon and Kruz. She is also survived by her sisters, Brenda (Ken) Kvern and Peggy (Dale) Descoteau. Gladys was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother who was lovingly referred to as “Gigi”. She had a loving presence and will be remembered for the constant care she so selflessly gave her family and others. Without question, her greatest joy was being with her family. She was an enthusiastic cheerleader at all of her grandchildren’s various sporting events. She was known by many athletes as Grandma, and she cheered for everyone! She rarely missed a game, travelling far and wide to attend them. She was a favourite among coaches and other parents alike, always providing endless snacks, conversation and a purse full of everything needed for a multitude of situations. Gladys is now at peace, re-united with the love of her life. Her presence will forever be felt in our hearts and all around us. Gladys’s care was endless and the impact of her love was unforgettable. Her presence will be deeply missed. A Private time of remembrance will be held at a future date. Those wishing to remember Gladys may do so through donations to the Danton Valkenburg Memorial Scholarship Fund care of the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta, 104, 430 - 6 Avenue S.E., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 2S8 or to Aj’s Loan Cupboard, P.O. Box 45006, Mackenzie Drugs Postal Outlet, Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 0B1.