Cook Southland Funeral Chapel
901 13 St SW T1A 4V4 Medicine Hat, AB, Canada

We, at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel are honoured to serve the family of Micheala Bell. http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1611183360//

To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday (1996) A Movie about the Tragic Loss of a Spouse This drama starring Peter Gallagher, Michelle Pfeiffer and a young Claire Danes is about profound loss. David Lewis (Gallagher) loses his wife Gillian (Pfeiffer) in a tragic boating accident on her birthday. He, and his family and friends, personally witness her untimely death. ... Fast forward two years and we find David still grieving the loss of his wife. His friends have decided to visit both David and his daughter on the anniversary of Gillian’s death and they have a surprise. Unbeknownst to them is that David has no intention to move past his grief. He is content with his solitary life, strolling the beach at night and having heart to heart talks with his deceased wife. This film reflects on the life of someone who has lost a spouse and when is the right time to say goodbye. It also addresses the question of how do family and friends respond when someone who is close to them is having difficulties grieving. It can be extremely hard to overcome the loss of someone when they are taken away from us without warning. The pain can be unbearable. David faces a decision that will have an impact on the rest of his life. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Preplanning during a Pandemic Prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, we would regularly meet with families either at our funeral home, or in some instances a home appointment was requested. At these meetings, we would provide information on alternatives and determine what services the family required from our funeral home. Often the family would arrive at decisions and secure the peace of mind that comes with having these arrangements in place.... The pandemic has definitely affected the way we now meet with the families we serve, both when making at-need arrangements (when a death has occurred) and pre-need arrangements. Families are still able to meet with us at our funeral home when they wish to preplan their funeral. Protocols are in place to ensure a safe visit. Additionally, we do have the resources in place, utilizing online tools, emails, interactive forms and phone conversations, to provide information and formalize prearrangements. Yes, we do have families who preplan without a formal face to face meeting. If you are seeking preplanning information but are unsure how this can happen, contact us. We are continuing to work to make sure you have access to the services we provide. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Life Expectancy Provincially, Nationally and Internationally Does where you live affect how long you will live? The Conference Board of Canada looked into this question and prepared the attached report. Internationally, Canadians fare quite well with respect to life expectancy. Canada ranks 6th globally when it comes to longevity. Ahead of us are Switzerland, Japan, France, Australia and Sweden. ... Provincially, British Columbia and Ontario get an A Grade ranking, with life expectancy at birth, surpassing 82 years. Internationally, only four nations had life expectancies greater or equal to 82 years. Please visit this Conference Board report. Some interesting statistics are presented about how long we and others live using easy to understand graphs. http://www.conferenceboard.ca/h/provincial/health/life.aspx Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

There are Times in Life when We must Keep Trying The loss of a loved one can have profound effects on survivors. Their realities change rapidly and lives once lived are no longer available. In addition to the changes in day to day life, emotions often run high, depression can set in and anxiety can be experienced. Grieving a loss includes all of these symptoms. Despite these personal challenges, it is important to understand that efforts are needed to move forward and to heal.... Being complacent will do nothing to help us as we grieve. Time, in of itself, does not heal. So we must keep trying. We must invest in ourselves so that we are able to find some of the joys life holds for us. Survival can be summed up in three words - never give up. That's the heart of it really. Just keep trying. -Bear Grylls I get those fleeting, beautiful moments of inner peace and stillness - and then the other 23 hours and 45 minutes of the day, I'm a human trying to make it through in this world. -Ellen DeGeneres Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Remembrance Day Observance To those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to members of our forces who continue to put themselves in harm’s way, fully knowing the risks they take to the families of service personnel who mourn the loss of loved ones we promise that we will remember. As we reflect today and pause in silence, we honour those who serve and protect our country and our way of life. You gave so much and we are forever in your debt.

Announcement: Live Streaming of Remembrance Day Service Wednesday, November 11, 2020, 10:45 a.m. We will Remember...... Due to Covid 19 health orders, we are unable to gather at the cenotaph this year on November 11 to honour our veterans who bravely fought for our freedom. We, at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel feel it is important that these heroes not be forgotten and receive the recognition they deserve. While we as a community are not able to personally attend the ceremony, we ask that you show your support and experience the ceremony via live-stream through the COOK SOUTHLAND FUNERAL CHAPEL Facebook page. If you wish to receive notification of the live-stream, we ask that you like and follow our Facebook page in advance. The live-stream will begin at approximately 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2020. We wish to thank RJF Productions and Al’s Audio for making this possible. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them. Please note that the success of the live-stream is dependent on a remote internet connection. In the event that internet connectivity issues occur, the ceremony recording will be posted to Vimeo. Warm regards, Rod Krushel Funeral Director/President

Saying Goodbye Concert: Sunday, November 15, 7 p.m. ET For Those Who Lost Someone Close During the Pandemic Since the outbreak of Covid, physical distancing protocols have meant that some families have not been able to mourn their loved ones with a proper funeral or celebration of live. The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association working with sponsors, is providing a memorial service dedicated to those who have died during the pandemic. ... This virtual event will include performances by well-known Canadian performers and entertainers. The Concert is available on YouTube. Click the link and then the button Watch on YouTube to watch: https://www.chpca.ca/sayinggoodbyeconcert/... Thank you to The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association for coordinating this special tribute.

Happy Grandparents Day! On this day 25 years ago, Canada officially observed Grandparents Day for the first time. Today we honour these loving members of our family, the Grandmothers who bake special treats for therir grandchildren and the Grandfathers who tell their stories from the past. Thank you for all you do, for your love and devotion to your family. In memory of grandparents who are no longer with us, your special ways always bring a warm smile to our face.

Terry Fox and his Marathon of Hope After losing a leg to cancer, Terry Fox made the decision to run across Canada to raise awareness about cancer and to inspire donations to defeat this disease. His goal was to raise $1 million. He didnt feel this to be a lofty goal, one dollar for every Canadian would have yielded $23 million at that time. When he approached the Canadian Cancer Society, for endorsement, there was initial reluctance. His tireless training regimen would prov...e to them his seriousness about completing his goal, a trek across Canada. On April 12th 1980, Fox dipped his artificial limb in the Atlantic Ocean and began his journey. For the next four plus months Terry would run about 42 kilometers a day. Sadly on day 143 of his marathon, he would be overcome pain and he would need to visit a local hospital. It was September 1st and cancer had returned forcing Terry to stop his Marathon of Hope. A star filled telethon would be organized and held just days later on September 9th. It would raise $10 million, 10 times Terrys original goal. On June 28, 1981 Terry would die from cancer. Though he would never realize the completion of his goal to complete his journey across Canada, his dreams speak to a much more lasting legacy. Since inception the Marathon of Hope has raised in excess of $700 million. This year marks the 40th anniversary. Please read Terrys Letter Requesting Support: https://terryfox.org/terrys-story/terrys-letter Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Cook Southland Funeral Chapel had been given the honour to look after the funeral arrangements for the following families. For more information about these services please visit our website at www.cooksouthland.com/obituaries Robert Davison Rosemarie Kat Allen Kawan ... Emily Kessler Tyler Rae James Waddell See more

The Onset of Covid-19 Resulted in many Families Needing to Postpone the Service for Their Loved One. Is the Timing Right to Reschedule?... The Covid pandemic resulted in lockdowns in many jurisdictions and restricted public interaction to only what was deemed essential outings such as buying groceries. Included in mandates were limits to the size of gatherings at funerals to reduce the risk of transmission. The initial effect of these guidelines had many families making the decision to postpone the service for their beloved to a time when more family and friends could attend and pay respects. Recently provinces have begun the process to reopen; limits on gathering sizes have been increased to allow more attendees, meaning that individuals wishing to pay respects can include more than immediate family, (depending on family size). Many families will benefit from these new initiatives. It is important to also remember that there are many ways that funeral homes can accommodate the present needs of families. Additional visitation time can be scheduled to reduce the number of people attending at any one point in time, and online recording and streaming services can be offered to provide a virtual alternative. Bereavement counsellors recognize the importance of funerals as a key element in the beginning of grieving process for surviving family members. The absence of the formal acknowledgement of the death often can lead to unresolved grief. For families who continue to struggle with the passing of a beloved, because there was no service, please contact us. We can provide information about how families are providing a meaningful service for a recently departed loved one, under the new guidelines. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1599085692//

Grief and Losing a Loved One to Substance Use Healing after the loss of someone you loved can be challenging. This can be particularly difficult if the cause of death is related to substance use or abuse. Though inroads are being made into how society reacts to deaths related to addiction, there are still long strides that need to be made. The stigmas that next of kin are burdened with are still very much present to this day. Sometimes, there is fear of judgement, guil...t, regrets, and disappointment. These all play a part in complicating the grieving process. Death through substance use often brings to the surface the reality of living with someone who is suffering from addiction or substance use disorder. Often the deaths of individuals who use substances are unintentional. Individuals who practice this lifestyle know there are risks, but often ignore the fact that the street drug supply can be tainted with other drugs such as fentanyl and may result in an unintentional death. Those who grieve the loss of a beloved need to separate feelings for their loved one from the addiction. There is a need to remember who the person was before becoming dependent on substances. This separation is vital to processing grief, which is often complicated when a loved one dies this way. If experiencing anger, direct it at the addiction and not at the person. As the person grieving comes to an understanding about the way the person died, they can begin to mourn their death. Sometimes talking with others who have experienced a similar loss can help to reduce the fear of judgement. Death from opioid use is becoming more commonplace across our nation. This is a newer phenomenon we in the bereavement profession are coming to terms with. If you know of someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one from overdose, show kindness and compassion and do not be too quick to judge. This is a difficult passage for them where care and support need to be offered. Margaret Lorrie Beaton, MA, C. Hyp Bereavement Counsellor Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Funeral Planning Makes Sense Planning, prearranging and formalizing a funeral service plan makes sense for many reasons. At the individual level, personal preferences are indicated and recorded. When meeting with a funeral director, a file is created that lists wishes and choices for the desired future service. ... At a family level, making arrangements in advance means that decisions do not have to be made at an emotional time. There is time to discuss and make decisions that positively affect the family as a whole. Financially, arrangements which are prefunded have the benefit of avoiding the effects of inflation. A certain level of service is arranged for and paid for, and this price will not change over time. Making any major decision provides peace of mind. Please contact us if you wish further information on planning in advance. Were here to help. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Its been 15 Years since the Popular Nighttime Drama Series Six Feet Under Ended Six Feet Under followed the lives of the members of the Fisher family, who own and operate a funeral home in Las Angeles. Spanning 63 episodes over 5 seasons this drama received numerous awards, Emmys, Screen Actors Guild and Golden Globes. It was and remains a favourite of funeral professionals. The series recounted the behind the scenes on goings at the funeral home and the experiences of fam...ily members, following the death of their patriarch, Nathaniel Fisher. Episodes explore the stories of families who are cared for by the funeral home while simultaneously delving into the lives of family members who work and live at the funeral home. Stars include Michael C. Hall, Frances Conroy, Peter Krause and Lauren Ambrose who collectively receive numerous acting nominations and awards. The series is available on many streaming platforms, a must watch. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1597941146//

https://vimeo.com/449565485/9f4b2818d0

The Cemetery Walk We all have our reasons to visit loved ones resting at a cemetery. Some of us bring flowers at Mothers Day or Fathers Day. Others visit on anniversaries and birthdays, as a gesture to the bonds that were shared. Sometimes we visit hoping to gain insights about our family history and genealogy. There are so many reasons we visit. The cemetery walk includes the feeling we get when we drive in past the cemetery gates and approach the grave site of our belove...d. Though they are gone, for some reason we find solace in moments such as these. There is a clarity, a simpleness that speaks to us from beyond. As we walk to where they rest, our emotions sometimes rise to the surface. When was the last time we visited? We continue to miss them and just being at the cemetery is a source of comfort. Were sure they would appreciate that weve taken the time. The cemetery walk is about our feelings for someone we loved dearly and about death and dying. Some of us find elation and love while others find sadness and regret. Everyone feels different emotions. Though they are laid to rest here and we know they are no longer with us at one level, there is an attachment which we will always have to them. Walking to their grave, standing over it, having a heart to heart and paying respects are all simple gestures which make us feel better about who we are, deep down inside. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Looking Back to 1945 Remembering 75 Years Ago World War II would end in 1945. The Allied forces advanced in Europe and defeated Hitlers armies. The official surrender came on May 8th, VE or Victory in Europe Day. United States would force the surrender of Japan a few months later, after dropping two atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. August 15th, VJ or Victory in Japan Day would mark an official surrender by the Emperor of Japan. These two events would conclude WW2. ... In Canada, hockey player, Maurice Richard set a new record for the most goals (50) in a single season on February 25th. On September 5th, a Soviet embassy clerk defected to Canada revealing that a Soviet spy network was operating within Canada borders. Canadian celebrities who were born in 1945 include singer-songwriter Neil Young and female astronaut Roberta Bondar. The World Bank was established in 1945. Its primary role then, which remains to this day, was to provide developmental assistance to low income countries. Twenty-eight nations initially signed the agreement chartering the bank. In science, the first vaccine to fight influenza was developed, and in pop culture, the most popular Christmas gift was the newly patented Slinky. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

Why its Important to say "I Love You" to the People who We are Close To When was the last time you said I love you to your spouse, parent, child, sibling or close friend? Was it earlier today, yesterday, last week you dont remember? Saying these three simple words has benefits for all involved. It will make both them and you feel good. These gestures have an uncanny way of warming our hearts. ... Sometimes we dont say these words because we fear we are placing ourselves in a position of vulnerability. Maybe this sentiment wont be reciprocated? Sometimes people show love through actions, rather than outwardly expressing these feelings. Showing love can be complicated. That said, one of the main reasons to say I Love You is that there are no guarantees in life. Sometimes there are unexpected turns in our lives and opportunities to share how much we care for someone is lost. Regret is something mostly everyone who grieves experiences. And a common regret is that they didnt get a chance to say I Love You one last time. Lets not keep important feelings like these to ourselves. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

https://vimeo.com/445733402

What is Thanatology? The Merriam Webster dictionary defines thanatology as: the description or study of the phenomena of death and of psychological mechanisms for coping with them. As society evolves, many subject areas receive increasing levels of study and research. Some topics which received very little interest as little as a generation ago are now gaining increased attention from society and are becoming the focus of academic study.... Thanatology is the study of death and the loss experienced by individuals who knew the deceased. It encompasses both social reactions to and psychological norms and values that are associated with death. It also includes forensic aspects of death and the physical changes that a body experiences following death. Located in London, Ontario, Kings University College offers three course options to individuals who wish to study thanatology. Their prospectus touches on topics which include bereavement and grief, palliative care, children and death, spiritual and philosophical issues and popular culture. At this time, Kings University College is the only university in North America to offer the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Thanatology. To read more about their program, please visit: https://www.kings.uwo.ca/future-stude/programs/thanatology/ Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1596740788//

Navigating Traffic Flow at Funeral Services As provinces reopen and set in place guidelines to reduce transmission rates of Covid-19, we are beginning to see how businesses are adapting and managing traffic flow within their establishments. Big box stores restrict the number who are able to enter their building at one time and arrows guide customers from the entrance through to checkouts. Funeral homes have similar guidelines which they must follow. There are restrictions on... gathering sizes at visitations, funeral services and outdoor graveside services. Physical distancing continues to be a key way to prevent the spread of the virus. Sometimes, visitors may be requested to wait in their vehicles if the funeral home has reached capacity. Firstly, we thank everyone for their patience. These new guidelines mean that the old ways of attending a funeral need to be modified. There may be some waiting and some new protocols which need to be met. Be assured that we are here to assist you throughout your visit at our funeral home. We will guide you through these new ways of paying respects and supporting the family. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Were here to help in any way we can. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1596409942//

Grief and Our Online World Those of us in the bereavement world could have never imagined that social media would be taking on such a considerable role in the way people grieve, and therefore changing the way we connect with others after a death. Social media is replacing the way we connect with loved ones. I hear it again and again that family members heard of a loved ones death through social media, but it does not stop there. Families from all over the world are now able ...to stream their favourite Uncles funeral, which makes sure that every family member worldwide can be virtually included. Families are staying in touch, supporting each other, and mourning the loss by posting photos and sharing stories of the deceased on private memorial pages, which is helping families to grieve together and stay connected. When you are feeling a burst of grief at 3 am, you can now log into blogs, Facebook groups, and other online resources that are directed at those who are grieving. This can help the griever feel less isolated, provide education about the grieving process, and can impart a platform to honour and remember a loved one. The bereaved can share their story and feel supported when they need it, which is good news for those that are feeling alone in their grief. Margaret Lorrie Beaton, MA, C.Hyp. Bereavement Counsellor Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

International Self Care Day International Self-Care Foundation (ISF), has as one of its ideologies that: self-care is a foundation for good health. This organization is works with interested national and international agencies and organizations to promote principles of well-being for individuals around the globe. July 24 is chosen as International Self Care Day symbolically representing the benefits that accrue from self-care which are experienced 24/7. ... This initiative has been gaining global recognition, with countries from around the world, including Canada, supporting self-care objectives. In 2019, WHO (the World Health Organisation) announced that June 24 to July 24th would be declared Self-Care Month. With a focus on the individual, partners to this cause build awareness in local, regional, national and international communities. ISF utilizes 7 Pillars of Self Care that are: Health Literacy, Self-Awareness and Mental Well Being, Physical Activity, Good Eating, Risk Avoidance, Good Hygiene and Responsible Use of Products and Medications. To view more about this initiative and movement please visit: https://isfglobal.org/international-self-care-day/ https://isfglobal.org/pract/the-seven-pillars-of-self-care/ Today, lets take the time to be mindful of how good mental and physical health, through self-care is attainable. We deserve it.

What is the Residual of an Estate? An estate is comprised of the lifetime accumulation of assets and debts of an individual. Creditors and taxes are paid prior to a final valuation of the estate being determined. With this process, there is a formal accounting of the estate to all beneficiaries. At this point specific gifts or bequests are distributed to named beneficiaries. The remaining value of the estate is referred to as the residual. This can include a variety of asset...s including real estate, investments, money in bank accounts, vehicles, furniture, life insurance, pension plans and savings. The residual can have a sole beneficiary or be divided between a number of beneficiaries. Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

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Tree Seedlings: A Continuing Legacy A unique way to celebrate a life is to share in an experience, to unite those attending in some meaningful way. Why not give tree seedlings to everyone who is at the funeral service. Planting a seedling, is symbolic of creating a true living legacy.... Evergreen Memories offers tree seedlings from a variety of species. For more information please visit the below link or contact us on how these mementos can be part of a service. http://www.evergreenmemories.ca/index.php Cook Southland Funeral Chapel/CFHC Online

http://cooksouthland.com/obituaries/obituaries/1594764118//