Obituaries | DrumhellerMail
05142025Wed
Last updateTue, 13 May 2025 9am

Condolences to the family of Dean Raugust

Deans picture

With heavy hearts, we share the peaceful passing of Dean Edward Raugust, 54, of Craigmyle, Alberta, on April 29, 2025, surrounded by his cherished loved ones. Dean’s boundless kindness and wisdom, as expansive as the Alberta prairies he tended, left an unforgettable mark on all who knew him.
Born into the fourth generation of the Raugust family, Dean poured his soul into the 100-year-old family farm, a legacy he upheld with unwavering pride. Whether steering one of his treasured John Deere tractors—his green-and-yellow fleet a beloved brand—or offering a helping hand, Dean was a cornerstone to many.
His wise advice and warm smile uplifted family, friends, and strangers alike. By his side, always, was his quirky and devoted dog, Jeb, whose presence brought joy to every moment.
Dean’s adventurous spirit shone in his love for biking, chasing dreams, and exploring the open countryside. Yet his greatest joy came from time spent with family and friends, weaving memories filled with laughter, love, and shared stories.
Dean was predeceased by his parents, Melvin and Frieda Raugust and nephew James Broom. He leaves behind his true love, Heather Rosin, and her children, Grace Deren and Mason Lupkoski; his son, Zane Hansen, and Zane’s partner, Shayna Fecho; and his sisters, nieces, and nephews: Patricia Broom (Jordan and Jacob Broom), Pam and Larry Guilloux (Taelyr and Brock Guilloux), Tracy and Mike Heysa (Shianne and Josh Vandervelde, with children Hudson, Lochlen, Sterling, Redding, and Jett; Cooper and Easton Heysa), and Bonnie and Lance Farwell (Shaylen and Quinn Farwell).
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on May 14, 2025, at the Dean Raugust 100-Year Family Farm, 16340 Township Road 300, Craigmyle, Alberta. All are invited to honor Dean’s extraordinary life—please bring a memory or story to share.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hand Hills Little Britches Rodeo, a community event Dean supported. For donation details, contact Charleigh Cosgrave at 403-819-8087 or charleighprofit@hotmail.com.
Dean’s legacy endures in the land he nourished, the lives he touched, and his faithful companion, Jeb, who carries his spirit forever.


Condolences to the family of Valerie (nee Sayer) Johnston

Dovewithbranch

October 16, 1955 - April 24, 2025

 

Valerie Johnston (nee Sayer), age 69, of Drumheller, Alberta, passed away on April 24, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta.
Valerie was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, and was a proud member of the George Gordon First Nation.
In 1973, she married Donald Johnston, and together they built a long and happy life, living and working in various towns across Alberta. A great joy in Valerie’s life was watching her two children, Ryan (Megan Emmett) and Kerie (Greg Fissum), grow and thrive. She cherished her five grandchildren, Jadelyne and Addison Fissum, and Dexter, Kathleen, and Chloe Johnston.
She studied scripture daily and lived a life rooted in faith and guided by a strong moral compass. Loyal and unwavering in her devotion, she supported her family unconditionally. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, camping, and spending each day alongside her beloved Don.
Valerie will be profoundly missed by her family and all who loved her.
A celebration of life will be held later this year. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via the website www.fostersgardenchapel.ca

Foster’s Garden Chapel
Funeral Home and Crematorium
Telephone: 403-297-0888
Honoured Provider of Dignity Memorial

Condolences to the family of Elsie Marie Madsen (Jensen)

Elsies pic

March 16, 1938 - May 1, 2025

 

Elsie passed away on May 1, 2025 at the Drumheller Health Centre/Continuing Care at the age of 87 years.
Elsie was born in Wayne, Alberta on March 16, 1938. Elsie married Tom Madsen in 1957, the couple had one son. Elsie enjoyed farm life, she kept busy sewing, reading, playing her piano, listening to music, petty point, all while taking care of her boys. In later years Elsie became an avid photographer.
Elsie was predeceased by her parents, her husband Tom. She leaves to mourn, one son Dalton, and numerous other family members and friends.
A Graveside service was held Thursday, May 8, 2025 at the Drumheller Cemetery.
If friends so desire memorial donations may be made to Dalum Fire Protection Association, Dalum Community Hall Association or Drumheller Area Health Foundation (Continuing Care).
Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.