The CAMROSE BOOSTER, June 16, 2026 – Page 26
Royal Canadian Legion turns 100 By Nadine Leming The Royal Canadian Legion (Legion) branches across the country serve veterans and their families by offering support programs, alongside helping each of the communities they are located in. This year marks a momentous milestone as the organization celebrates 100 years. Founded in 1925, the Legion began with strategic intent, to support veterans by advocating for their rights while safeguarding the act of Remembrance continues. On July 17, 1926, the Legion was formally constituted by a special Act of Parliament and is now recognized as the organization’s anniversary. Canadians are encouraged to join in the celebrations and activities throughout the year. Berkley Lawrence, Legion dominion president, is quoted as saying, “We are honoured to still be going strong, one hundred years after our founders first built this incredible organization, with a central mission to serve Canada’s Veterans.” With over 270,000 members and 1,350 branches dedicated to supporting the good work of the Legion, Queen Elizabeth II granted the Legion the word “Royal” in 1960 and Canada’s Governor General serves as patron representative on behalf of the Crown to this day. Over the last 10 decades, the Legion has seen two world wars, as well as a myriad of substantial military conflicts and adhered to peacekeeping missions all while being of assistance to those that served for our country. All year long, Canadians who are not current members are encouraged to join the Legion as Centenary Members. This is an opportunity to connect for free while you discover the benefits of membership while celebrating this landmark year. The legacy of the Legion is also being recognized by the Royal Canadian Mint with the release of limited edition silver and gold coins on January 14 in observance of this special occasion. The Legion’s official anniversary on July 17, 2026, will see Ottawa host events.
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Debra “Debbie” Ann Rousell
October 21, 1954 ~ June 4, 2026 Debra “Debbie” These was born on October 21, 1954, in Edmonton, Alberta, and passed away on June 4, 2026, after a long and courageous battle, surrounded by those who loved her most. She was the second child born to Bruno and Doris These, and the only girl among three brothers. Debbie attended school in Hay Lakes and, after graduation, moved to Edmonton with her best friend, Linda, where she worked as a laboratory technician. She later married and returned to Hay Lakes, where she lovingly raised her three children: Kara, Justin, and Elise. Debbie loved baking, cooking, and preparing “feasts” for her growing family. But more than anything, she lived for her children and grandchildren, whom she treasured deeply. Her two greatest passions – gardening and her grandchildren – were intertwined in her heart. Debbie believed that if you give something love, it will bloom, and she nurtured both with endless care, patience, and devotion. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone she met feel valued. She affectionately referred to herself as “Sweet Auntie Deb” to her nieces and nephews, and the name quickly became one she wore with pride. If anyone forgot to call her that, she would gently remind them with a mischievous smile. Debbie found joy in gardening and yard work, winning several awards over the years for her beautiful flower beds. She also loved curling, quilting, coffee dates with her best friends, entertaining, and hosting family dinners for which she would spend days preparing. She was known for her quick wit and playful spirit – some would even say she was a professional prankster. Her greatest passion, however, was her family. No health challenge or obstacle could keep her from being present for the people she loved. Whether it was a hockey game, graduation, Christmas concerts, or any special milestone, Debbie always found a way to be there. She made ordinary moments extraordinary through shopping and lunch dates, thoughtful conversations, feeding an army at family gatherings, and handcrafting one-of-a-kind quilts that will forever be cherished. Sixteen years ago, Debbie met Gery, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, travel, and endless home projects. They often planned their next adventure before returning from the last, always dreaming about where life would take them next. Together, they lived a real-life love story built on friendship, partnership, and unconditional love. Six years later, when Debbie required a liver transplant, Gery became her perfect match. Without hesitation, and with immeasurable love, he gave her the extraordinary gift of life by donating a portion of his liver, blessing Debbie and her family with ten more precious years together. But Gery’s greatest gift to Debbie was not only the years he helped give back to her – it was the unwavering love, loyalty, and devotion he showed every day. Through every challenge and every setback, he stood faithfully by her side. He cared for her with patience, compassion, and quiet strength, always putting her needs before his own. His commitment to Debbie never wavered, and his selfless dedication allowed her to continue creating treasured memories with her children, grandchildren, family, and friends. In her final years especially, his care and devotion were beyond measure. Debbie was deeply loved every step of the way. Debbie fought fiercely for many years. She did not want to miss watching her family grow, and we believe it was her love and determination that kept her strong for as long as her body would allow. Though her body grew tired, her spirit never did. Compassionate, thoughtful, selfless, and endlessly giving, Debbie leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love. She will be forever missed and deeply loved by all who were blessed to know her. Left to cherish her memory are her spouse Gery Michon; children Kara (Cory) Bowler, Justin (Leslie) Rousell and Elise (Ray) Schultz; grandchildren Braden, Calen, Lauren, Ethan, Morgan, Ryland and Reed; siblings Gary (Jean) These, Bill (Tara) These and Mike (Karla) These; and numerous nieces and nephews. Debbie was predeceased by her parents Bruno and Doris These. Like a tall glass of water, Debbie was pure, refreshing, and life-giving to those around her. We are forever grateful to have shared in her love, and though she is deeply missed, she lives on in each of us – and always will. A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Our Saviour Evangelical Lutheran Church, officiated by Rev. Dean Rostad. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Debbie’s memory may be made to the Canadian PBC Society (Primary biliary cholangitis) or to St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose Foundation. To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
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Wendy Patricia Kercher
January 25, 1949 ~ May 22, 2026 Wendy Kercher of Rosalind, Alberta, passed on May 22, 2026, at the age of 77 years. Wendy is survived by her daughter Candace Kercher (Lee); sister Bev Loewen; brother Ron Kercher; and numerous nieces and nephews. Wendy was predeceased by her parents Edward and Bernice Kercher; sister-in-law Bonnie Kercher; brother-in-law Bob Loewen; and niece Shannon Kercher. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mikel and Jenna Shisko, the Rosalind Fire Department and the Royal Alexandra ICU staff for the kindness, care and compassion Wendy received. In honour of Wendy’s expressed wishes, there will be no formal service. If family and friends so wish, donations in Wendy’s memory can be made to the Rosalind Fire Department, Rosalind Ag Society or a charity of their choice. “Its’ gonna find you regardless of how good you are. When it’s your time, the Lord’s gonna take you.” – Elvis Presley
Memorial Poems Available for publication in The Camrose Booster. Ask for our 24-page booklet of poetry. Words of comfort to remember someone special.