Obituary of Loah Wilhelmina Bentham

Loah Wilhelmina Bentham, at the age of 81, passed away suddenly at the Rockyview General Hospital on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 surrounded by her family. Loah was born and spent most of her life in Biggar, SK. She was very active in her community as a member of the Acacia No. 3 Order of Eastern Star and Royal Purple. A gifted pianist, Loah brightened many lives, particularly as the church organist for almost forty years. She and her husband Dick, enjoyed curling and square-dancing, while also supporting and partaking in their children’s many activities. At the age of fifty-five, they retired to the beautiful city of Penticton, BC. Here they remained very active with dancing, golf, cards, and a busy social life. Earlier this year Loah moved to Calgary, taking up residence at the Manor Village of Garrison Woods. Still living independently, she quickly made many new friends, and often entertained others playing the grand piano in the foyer. Her heart was constantly with her family and friends. Loah inspired others with her positive attitude, selflessness and beautiful music. She will be greatly missed. Loah is survived by her four children and their spouses, Ronald and Dianne Bentham of Penticton, BC, Karen and Ron Boerrichter of Unity, SK, Jackie Bentham and Duncan Truscott, and Gary and Donalda Bentham, all of Calgary; nine grandchildren, Rick (Sharon) Farrell, Ryan Bentham, Blair (Katherine) Bentham, Paul Bentham, Brooke Bentham, Laura Truscott, Thomas Bentham, Jillian Truscott and Mark Bentham; three great-grandsons, Brock, Regan and Levi Farrell; three sisters, Dorothy, Gladys (Bob) and Joyce (Peter); four brothers, Howard (Hazel), Ken (Merle), Raymond (Delores), Delmer (Carol); brother-in-law, Joe (Florence); sisters-in-law, Rhoda, Ruby and Ginger; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Richard Bentham in 1997 and her brother Gary in 1993. Service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2003 at 11:00 A.M at the First Alliance Church at 1201 Glenmore Trail SW. Interment will be held at a later date in Biggar, SK. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 215 – 12 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 1A2. Telephone: (403) 205-3966 or directly to the charity of the donor’s choice. Dear Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother In caring heart and loving spirit, there was no one more beautiful than you. In living memory of Loah Bentham, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W., CALGARY, TELEPHONE: (403) 243-8200.