Mike Ford

Mike is a relatively young and new member at LSCO. He was born in Calgary in 1982 and resided there until 2008. He did his grades 1-6 within the Calgary public school system, getting bussed to school and having a social life. A teacher suggested that he might prefer a private school where the student-teacher ratio was much better than in the public system after elementary. Mike and his parents decided to take the plunge into the private system. Mike states that he had “quite a bit of freedom” as a child growing up in Calgary; his many years in Calgary have left him with many good memories.
Mike completed his Grades 7-12 at Delta West Academy with his High School diploma. As there was no gym, the students were out in the community trying many sports: e.g fencing, rock-climbing, skating, swimming, basketball, horseback riding, and luge at Canada Olympic Park. Mike’s most favourable high school memories involve trips to California and Greece. In California, he went to e.g. Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and the Museum of Tolerance (MOT) in Los Angeles. He liked the MOT the most; it featured various historical events of intolerance, like white supremacy, the holocaust, and genocide. For example, there were two hallways leading to two gas chambers and you took the hallway for “Men” or for “Women & Children”; apparently a rather foreboding darkness. Another was an opportunity to open a door labelled “Not Prejudiced” or one labelled “Prejudiced”; if you tried to open the ‘Not Prejudiced’ door, it remained locked, because, ‘we are all prejudiced about something at sometime in our lives’. Mike felt these were very strong and worthy messages.
Mike’s trip to Greece included 5 other students, two teachers, and a guide. He liked seeing the museums, ruins, and eating moussaka (an eggplant/potato & ground meat dish). Of his two trips, Mike would like to return to Greece someday.
In 2008, Mike’s parents retired and moved to Osoyoos, BC so Mike moved with them.
However, in 2012, Mike moved away to Penticton, BC and resided there for ten years to seek his independence. He decided to leave Penticton though because he felt that there was too much crime; thankfully he left before he became a victim of any particular crime e.g. you couldn’t leave your bike parked outside without fear of it immediately being stolen.
Mike’s work experience was at a bottle depot in Calgary a while ago, and at a Wal Mart in Penticton. He has a Web Design certificate from an online academic program. Mike then advanced his skills by creating a program using PHP and HTML which are tools used to build websites.
Mike re-joined his parents in Osoyoos in 2022. In 2023, the family decided to move to Lethbridge. As Mike has a paternal aunt which lives here, they were already quite familiar with Lethbridge. Mike was willing to move and says he has found the move turned out to be better than he expected. Overall, Mike says he is “pretty content” with his lifestyle for now.
Mike lives as independently as possible in his parents’ home. He has his own living quarters and cooks most of his own meals, which he learned to do in high school. His favorite dish is lasagna; he can make his own, but he is quite happy to let others make it for him, too. Mike does his own grocery shopping and can make a ‘mean’ shake-n-bake chicken’.
As far as sports, Mike enjoys watching F-1 (Formula 1 car racing) and NBA (basketball), especially the Toronto Raptors. He also likes Canucks and Flames hockey teams. Mike likes to walk outdoors and does weightlifting at LSCO. Mike used to play cribbage at LSCO, but is taking some time off to hone his skills and hope for better luck in the cards coming his way.
Mike likes country music, particularly the ex-rapper Jelly Roll and Chris Stapleton. That said, he’d probably be open to giving the symphony a try if the opportunity came along.
Mike likes TV’s Star Trek in all its incarnations. Mostly though, he is passionate about online gaming. He gave this writer an education into the world of how he “streams Twitch-TV” – a platform where people can watch others play video games Live. He has been playing World of Warcraft for an impressive 21 years! Mike indicates that he is very “tech-savy”.
Mike says his auto-biography should be titled: How to be Interesting More Than Once.
Mike’s mother and aunt are also LSCO members – his aunt enouraging him to give LSCO a try for some things to utilize his time. Mike has been a member for less than a year, but has already come on board as a kitchen dishwasher once per week for most of that time. Mike is proud of his volunteering experience at LSCO, and should be. The organization is very pleased to have his diligence and patience in this role.
This writer very much appreciated Mike’s openness with this writer in sharing his story. Thank-you, Mike!

Shawn Wilson

This month’s Volunteer Spotlight shines on Shawn Wilson. Originally from Ontario, Shawn and his family have been in Lethbridge for almost 14years. Shawn likes living in Lethbridge and has no desire to live anywhere else, if he had the option.
He has been volunteering with LSCO, in various roles, over the last 10 years or so; bingo fundraising, dishwasher, server, kitchen prep, to name a few. Shawn volunteers because he likes to keep busy. Every year for the last four decades LSCO has provided Christmas Dinner to the community-at-large on Christmas Day. Since Shawn joined the team of volunteers, his most prestigious role has been Christmas Dinner delivery driver for all the Police and Fire Stations on Christmas Day. Shawn has developed a continuing relationship with the folks that serve the city on Christmas Day and I’m sure the crews look forward to his visit. When he isn’t volunteering, Shawn works for Lethbridge Kia and spends time with his family.
When asked whom inspired him most in his life he said, “My grandmother, because she kept me in line. She was tiny and mighty and that wooden spoon was a fair size.” I asked Shawn, “Where do you see yourself in 10 years and what would you do if you won a million dollars?” “I will probably still be working and volunteering, and if I had a million dollars I would keep a bit and donate the rest to those in need.”
If you are out and about on Christmas Day you may see Shawn in his Santa Suit delivering those turkey dinners!

Phylis & Ken Moore

Phyllis and Ken are members and regular guests/supporters of the Lethbridge Seniors Citizens Organization. They have been members for about 8 years.
Phyllis (nee: Hunter) was born in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, but grew up on her parents’ ranch SW of Swift Current where they were involved with mixed farming and cattle. Her Dad bought the land and nurtured it, increasing the size of the property as he was able. Phyllis fondly remembers the free-ranging wildlife as hunting was not allowed on her family’s property. Phyllis’ brother still works the family’s farm.
Phyllis’ extended family lived geographically nearby, including both sets of her grandparents, who had homesteaded and farmed near one another. Therefore, her parents had grown up in close proximity to one another back in the day.
Phyllis went to the 1-room ‘Silver Craig’ School about 3 ½ miles away from home and she was able to attend Grades 1-9 there. Her and her brother and sister often walked to school across the prairie. In winter, when roads were blocked with snow, they walked along the railway tracks. Phyllis recalls enjoying swimming in the creek in summers and skating on it in winter. She got her Grades 10-12 by taking the school bus to Swift Current. After graduating, Phyllis went to Mt. Royal College in Calgary to take a 2 year Business course. Quite a change from the setting where she was raised, but she lived in student housing and when she got homesick, she had aunts to visit as she got used to the big city.
Ken was born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan, and spent his childhood in Elrose, a small town north of Swift Current. His father worked as a grain farmer, while his mother dedicated her career to teaching. Ken completed all his schooling, from Grades 1 through 12, in Elrose. He fondly recalls walking or biking to school and actively participating in a variety of school sports. A natural leader, Ken served as captain of both his high school volleyball and basketball teams—a role he humorously attributes to being the tallest player on the court.
Ken’s father passed away when he was 16 years old, a life-changing experience, but Ken did finish high school and then went to the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. He quit university, but then went on to DeVry Tech in Toronto to take Electronic Engineering.
Ken obtained employment at a Swift Current TV station in 1966 doing work on and off the air, being both in the studio and in control room. Then Ken was hired as a ‘newsman’ in radio in Regina. When his boss got fired, he was offered the job of news director, with very limited experience or knowledge of the position.
Phyllis and Ken met at the TV station and were later married in 1970. Phyllis moved to Regina where she was employed in the media. Then they moved back to Swift Current in 1972.
Phyllis and Ken went to Europe (Spain, etc.) in 1974 seeking a new lifestyle, but returned to Canada after 5 months. Phyllis said, “Looking back, we were very fortunate to visit Europe at the time when there were fewer tourists and we were able to visit galleries and tourist sights without line-ups. In 1974, Franco ruled Spain, so we saw a very different country than it is now. On Christmas Day, Ken played football on the beach in Torremolinos, Spain, immediately in front of our home-away-from-home, a 1- bedroom apartment immediately above a bar, for which we paid $4 a day, including breakfast. We also consulted our copy of Arthur Frommer’s Europe on $10 a Day daily.”
Phyllis and Ken resided in Lethbridge from 1975-77. Ken was hired at CJOC Radio & TV in 1975. He was a ‘commercial announcer’, because upon speaking with him, one can attest to this quality in his voice. When CJOC-TV became independent, he became News Director at CFAC-TV.
They bought a home in Stirling and have resided there since 1977. They have enjoyed their huge yard and the joys of gardening (veggies, herbs, and flowers) that it brings. Phyllis used to sell dry flower arrangements. For most of her working life, Phyllis worked in media advertising: radio, TV, newspaper, and two advertising agencies, but for 14 years she worked for Canada Post in Stirling. Phyllis has been ‘officially’ retired for 10 years.
Ken and Phyllis are deeply committed to their community and the world around them. Ken, a dedicated blood donor, gave over 100 pints during his lifetime. He was also a founding member of the “Friends” of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre, where he volunteered more than 2,000 hours, sharing his passion for nature through activities like his engaging “snake talks.” Additionally, Ken devoted many years to teaching English as a Second Language with County of Warner Further Education, helping others achieve their educational goals.
A passionate conservationist, Ken is actively involved with the Mountain Bluebird Trails Conservation Society. Previously serving on its executive committee, he enthusiastically shares the Society’s mission and educates others on how to support these beautiful bluebirds.
Phyllis has been equally committed to her community, volunteering for many years with the County of Warner Further Education Council and the Stirling Lioness Club. Together, Ken and Phyllis share a deep enthusiasm for education and a profound respect for the natural world. Ken also pursued lifelong learning. While working full-time, he attended the University of Lethbridge part-time, earning a BA in Political Science in 1988—a testament to his belief that “everyone wants to be educated, don’t they?”
Over 54 years of marriage, Phyllis and Ken have travelled and hiked extensively. They enjoy learning and therefore, watch the Knowledge Network, TVOntario, and PBS to broaden their knowledge base. Phyllis has a loom and is an accomplished weaver; she also likes to read mysteries. Ken prefers to read non- fiction because of his desire to keep learning. They used to golf, but now will watch some TV sports instead. Ken used to play trumpet, clarinet, and piano, but none recently; they both like easy listening, swing, and blues music. Phyllis’ favorite meal is spaghetti and Ken’s is “anybody’s lasagna”.
Phyllis’ favourite quote comes from her grandmother Jane Burnett: ‘You’re not the only pebble on the beach.’
Ken has been a long-time user of the LSCO gym, where he maintained an active lifestyle for many years. Both Ken and Phyllis have enjoyed being involved as active members of the LSCO, finding not only opportunities to stay engaged but also forming meaningful friendships through their time at the Centre. Ken and Phyllis are very approachable and seem quite willing to meet more members as we all share the Centre in its varied ways.
Many Thanks to Phyllis and Ken for coping with a ‘walk down memory lane’ and to satisfy a curiosity about “just who are our LSCO members?”
Editors Note: Thank you to Carol for continuing to interview and write the member spotlight articles in 2024. I certainly enjoy learning about the people at the LCSO, and hope that all you readers do as well.

Gladys Larson

Gladys had been a longstanding, active member around LSCO. She currently still resides in Lethbridge, but is thinking about moving to Raymond to be closer to family. Gladys was struck hard by Covid and she is finally beginning to feel more motivated and active again.
Gladys was born in the village of Riding Mountain, Manitoba on December 24, 1938. Her parents were Canadian-born and her father started out as a farmer. Her paternal roots are from Ireland and her maternal roots are in Manitoba.
Gladys’ father and uncles were in WWII; in all, 8 of Gladys’ extended family were in the war effort. Gladys’ father was overseas, but not in combat. Gladys remembers that sugar was rationed and how margarine got “coloured”.
There were three children in Gladys’ family; she has two elder brothers. She and her brothers always got along well. Gladys attended school in Riding Mountain to Grade 9. She remembers walking 1.5 miles to school and snowbanks as high as telephone poles. Gladys’ household chore was bringing in wood for the cookstove on a toboggan. In her early school years, her school consisted of one-room, and was also a village church. Later, there was a stand-alone school building. Her brothers moved away from home as teenagers.
Gladys’ parents separated and she ended up moving to Winnipeg with her mother. Gladys got a job making license plates for about a year. Her parents reunited, but her father passed away at age 55 due to a heart attack.
Gladys was always very keen on learning and doing artistic handwork. She taught herself to crochet and even taught her mother. Gladys taught herself to cook and sew. She lived with her Gramma for some of her adolescence and participated in 4H.
From Winnipeg, Gladys and her mother moved to Edmonton. Gladys was trained to be a telephone operator by Alberta Government Telephones and did that job for a few years. Afterwards, she moved to Vancouver for awhile where there was work and friends. Gladys returned to Alberta and in Calgary, she reunited with her mother.
Gladys married her husband Bob in 1959. They had three sons, but separated after 11 years and Gladys took on single parenting.
Gladys took ceramics courses in Calgary and then began to teach from her home. Instructors told her that she was “a natural”. She had earned a teaching certificate in Ceramics while in Calgary.
She remained in Calgary and eventually married Norman, who came with four children. They had a daughter together, and Gladys was a very busy mother and homemaker to this family! Gladys says that she is satisfied with how the children blended and that she continues to have good relationships with them.
Norman also had a farm (Magrath), which he operated even though he had a successful career off the farm. Gladys and Norman, and two of the children moved to Magrath in the early 80’s, but she wanted to do something more. She describes Norman as a good provider and farmer; he also helped with Gladys’ ceramics business that she set up in Magrath, but Norman passed away in 2002. Gladys hired schoolkids who would come after school and help her with the business, as the work was too heavy for her on her own. She had also begun to teach ceramics in Lethbridge, so Gladys decided to move to Lethbridge because farming was not practical for her any longer.
Gladys began to teach herself ‘china painting on porcelain’, but it is a lengthy process and although she taught it for a few years, its popularity began to wane like ceramics.
Gladys began teaching knitting and crocheting at LSCO; she was age 53 at this point. (LSCO rules were such that she could not buy a membership at the time due to her young age!)
Gladys’ LSCO history is lengthy so far, 32 years! She volunteered e.g.in the boutique, taught ceramics, participated in quilting, knitting and crochet, watercolours, and Zen tangle. (Zen tangle can be viewed on the west wall in the card playing area.) Gladys was such an involved quilter that she made quilts for each of her family members!
Gladys ‘ enduring belief is that everybody should be treated equally; we may have different bodies, but we are all human.
Gladys met Stu at LSCO almost 20 years ago. They travelled across Canada, took shorter bus tours, went to events together, and generally enjoyed each others’ company; their children were happy for their parents in their relationship. Gladys enjoyed cooking supper for her and Stu as long as possible. However, Stu has passed away and Gladys is as much a new widow as anyone else has experienced.
Gladys’ comfort food is “meat and potatoes”; she does not enjoy eating alone, no matter how fancy or expensive the food is. She has an enduring positive memory in that for her 70th birthday, her children threw her first proper birthday party; it was a success!
Gladys enjoys watching many TV sports e.g. hockey, tennis, curling, football, soccer. She likes Country music e.g. Willie Nelson, Blake Shelton.
Gladys would like people to know that she likes “to try new things.” For now, she has become an avid 5-Pin Bowler; she bowls in two leagues and she is consistent in her scores. She has also returned to taking up Hardanger, a type of embroidery that she learned years ago.
It should go without saying at this point, but it seems obvious that Gladys likes to keep her mind and body active. We look forward to seeing more of her again around LSCO.
Welcome Back Gladys!

Christine Schindler

Christine is a new member of our kitchen team, having joined the crew at the end of August. She brings years of experience in the food service industry. We value the hard work she does in the kitchen and can depend on Christine to get the job done! Christine says the best part of volunteering is the great people she meets, the opportunity to learn new things, and work with the reward of a job well done. “It’s hard work, like having a job, but the reward is the opportunity to serve others, as Jesus served, and at the end of the day I thank God,” says Christine. The important thing at LSCO, for Christine, is the welcoming atmosphere, the kind people, and the support services available.
If she had a million dollars, Christine said she would invest in a house here. Lethbridge has been home to Christine since she came from Hamilton, Ontario, with her family in the 70’s. People in Lethbridge are friendly and that made the transition into the community easy. The person whom has inspired Christine the most is her Mother. While both of Christine’s parents have passed, she has brothers here in the city.
In her spare time, Christine likes to read her bible. She would like to get back into swimming, which she really enjoyed when she was younger. Christine likes many sporting activities but swimming is her favourite. “Dad taught us kids to swim by tossing us in the deep end; sink or swim you’ll figure it out.” A lesson that can be applied in other life situations.
Thanks for all your hard work Christine – welcome to the volunteer team!

Maxine Tedesco

Meet Maxine, pickleball enthusiast and certified pickleball instructor. She has been a volunteer for just over 9 years – an impressive feat! Before retirement, Maxine spent her time working at the University of Lethbridge library. Now, you’ll catch her at the pickleball court most days. When she doesn’t have a paddle in hand, Maxine loves to read or listen to audiobooks, practice Tai Chi, explore her heritage by dabbling in genealogy, and dream of traveling to places on her “haven’t been there yet” list. She loves the year-round sunshine and warm winds characteristic of Lethbridge and, if given the resources, says she would build an indoor/outdoor pickleball facility adjacent to the LSCO building so we could welcome more players into our community. Her dedication to the sport and to the organization has impacted hundreds of LSCO members over the years.
Ever since the pickleball program began to grow here at LSCO, Maxine has been a constant force running in the background. From teaching beginner lessons to organizing players, schedules, and equipment, we have benefited greatly from Maxine’s involvement in the organization. She joined our volunteer cohort in the fall of 2015 after recognizing the need for volunteer effort to maintain our rapidly growing pickleball program. Nearly 10 years later we are still in full swing thanks to our volunteer leadership within the group. There are many players in the group that deserve recognition but we are thrilled to shine a light on Maxine this month.
Aspiring pickleball players have the opportunity to connect with Maxine and other instructors in our beginner lessons which are offered throughout the year in 4-week sessions. Experienced players who have already registered for LSCO pickleball have access to skills sessions offered seasonally with our volunteers as well.

Carpet Replacement

Carpet replacement in the LSCO Lobby beginning on November 6th.

Starting November 6, the city will begin installing new carpet in the lobby of the LSCO. This project will occur in three phases, each impacting different areas. Please be aware of the following schedule and changes to access:

Section 1: Starting November 6

  • Area: West entrance to the east door of Room A/B, including the coat rack/chair storage area, clinic room, and Step’s office.
  • Access: The main (double white) doors will be closed. Please use the East (MOW delivery) door for entrance to the upstairs offices, dining room, and other areas.

Section 2: Starting approx. November 12

  • Area: East door of Room A/B to the west side of the elevator, including administration, the library, boutique, and drop-in office.
  • Access: Both the East and main doors will be open as needed for Room A/B and upstairs areas.

Section 3: Starting once section 2 is completed

  • Area: Lobby area near the Support Services desk up to the card area.
    Access may be restricted during this time. We will provide updates as the project progresses.

Arlene Visser

Meet Arlene. Arlene has been volunteering with LSCO as an admin and special events volunteer for the past 9 months. The staff here at LSCO love seeing her smiling face; she is wonderful asset to our volunteer team!
Arlene is an incredibly dedicated worker. Before her retirement, she held a diverse range of positions, including roles at the Lethbridge Herald, owning her own specialty grocery store, managing a condominium, and serving as a caregiver for 25 years. Originally from the Philippines, Arlene also spent 15 years working as a secretary before making Canada her home. Her varied career reflects her empathy and compassion, strong work ethic and commitment to excellence in every role she undertook.
When she isn’t volunteering, Arlene enjoys taking her dog for walks and is an active member of a local walking group. If she were to win 10 million dollars, her first wish would be to travel, starting with a trip to the Philippines to reconnect with her family. “I want to explore more of the Philippines and visit other places here in Canada,” she shared. Arlene also expressed that she misses the delicious food from her home country.
Arlene truly enjoys her volunteering experience at LSCO. Her enthusiasm for typing is evident, and we greatly appreciate her contributions in our administrative role. When asked about her motivation to volunteer, Arlene replied with heartfelt simplicity, “I just want to help; whatever I can do! I don’t want to sit around doing nothing.” This selfless attitude not only reflects her generous spirit but also inspires those around her. Arlene stated, “When you volunteer, if you put your heart in it you will enjoy yourself. You don’t have to be paid to be happy.” We couldn’t agree more! Thank you Arlene for generously giving LSCO your time and commitment.
Is there a volunteer that you think deserves a special shout out? Nominate a volunteer for a Monthly Spotlight by chatting or sending an email to Bonnie at bjensen@lethseniors.com

Barry & Terry Bannerman

Introducing Barry and Terry! This delightful couple has been volunteering with LSCO Meals on Wheels (MOW) for two years. They are incredibly dependable and always eager to help out in a pinch. Terry shared, “When an extra shift comes up and we’re asked, ‘Can you help?’ we always say, ‘SURE!’” They began their volunteering journey with MOW because they wanted to find a meaningful daily activity, and their church suggested the opportunity. The rest, as they say, is history. Barry added, “Instead of sitting around in our condo, we prefer to get out into the fresh air and help people. It’s so gratifying.”
Barry and Terry met at their church and are celebrating their 12th wedding anniversary this month. Until recently, they celebrated their anniversary monthly—Happy 144th month anniversary, Barry and Terry! When asked, “Is there a person in your life who inspires you to be a volunteer?” Barry pointed to Terry—SO CUTE! They truly are the sweetest.
Outside of their volunteer work at LSCO, Barry keeps busy with golf and shooting pool, while Terry enjoys painting with acrylics and watercolors. They love spending time at LSCO and appreciate the kindness of everyone here. They also enjoy shopping at the LSCO Boutique and have bought several handmade items.
When asked what they would do if they won 10 million dollars, Terry responded, “I’d put a lot of it into this community at LSCO because there are so many seniors who need this friendship. I’d invest it here.” LSCO hopes Barry and Terry win a fortune (Haha!). They thoroughly enjoy all the LSCO events and always get tickets for Mother’s Day. Terry also gave a shout out to our Chef, Lachlan, saying, “And the Chef—oh my—the meals are wonderful!” Barry and Terry are great supporters of LSCO and amazing advocates for the MOW program.
Barry and Terry both agree that the best part about volunteering with LSCO MOW is “meeting the people.” Barry noted, “The people are well worth it. You meet the most interesting individuals.” Terry shared that they developed a meaningful connection with one person through MOW, who later moved to St. Therese. Terry continued visiting her there, saying, “She appreciated the extended friendship.”
In response to why others should consider volunteering, Barry and Terry highlight the importance of supporting seniors in our community. They believe it’s essential to care for the pioneers and older generations who came before us and find it incredibly rewarding to form friendships with MOW participants. Barry and Terry truly love being part of the Lethbridge community, and we are so grateful they are! Thank you Barry and Terry for making a difference!

Martha Nance

Martha Nance (née Carlson) was born and raised on the Milk River Ridge in the hamlet of Jefferson, Alberta. Jefferson no longer exists, but Martha recalls that it was a thriving little community. There were stores, churches, three elevators, teacherages, a garage, residential neighborhoods, and its own Owendale post office. Martha rode her bike while her friends rode their horses; she is not an “animal person.” Martha believes to this day that Jefferson’s schoolteachers sincerely cared about the children and helped them do well in life. Schools closed in Jefferson in 1960-61, and all the children were then bussed to Cardston for their formal education. Jefferson eventually disappeared due to transportation making a close place non-essential.
Martha defines herself as being part of the Baby Boomer generation. She was from a family of five children, and she was the youngest child. She says that as the youngest, she always knew she was “privileged” and never had to go without.
Martha’s father came from Sweden to Canada as a teenager, avoiding conscription into the Swedish army. He was sponsored by the Strom farm family of Burdett to emigrate but went back to Sweden before returning to Canada permanently with his brother and nephew.
Martha’s mother’s family came to Canada from Norway with one child, and they had five more children after settling in Canada. Martha’s mother was born in Saskatchewan. Martha’s Norwegian grandmother always remembered seeing the luxurious Titanic ship in Liverpool while they were setting off for Canada on a much lesser ship. Once in Canada, they took an “immigrant train” to Saskatchewan. Martha’s Norwegian grandfather never returned to Norway, but her grandmother was able to go back 50 years after arriving in Canada.
Martha’s parents met in Jefferson. Her parents did well in farming, and Martha says this gave her family a good life. She describes her parents as successfully working as a team to operate, maintain, and grow their farm. Martha learned many life lessons from her parents, with financial literacy being a very significant one. She understands the meaning of hard work and perseverance in keeping a family successfully afloat.
Martha first went to Sweden at age 12 with her family but says she is not much of a traveler. She recalls that what she experienced on her Swedish trip demonstrated the difference between rural Canada and urban European lifestyles. She does travel to see her daughters, who both reside in the mainland United States.
Martha graduated from Cardston High School, then moved in with her grandmother and attended Lethbridge Junior College, taking Business Administration. Martha met Dave Nance in Lethbridge. He was working for his father in farm machinery, then opened House of Books as the University of Lethbridge was being built. Martha and Dave married and had two girls. When the girls were 5 and 7 years old, the family moved to Pender Island (in the Vancouver Island channel); they operated the general store and post office. As parents, they became concerned about the negative teenage social circles, so Martha took the girls to live in Victoria to change their social networks to something more positive. Dave sold the general store and became “retired” at 47 years old. This required a big adjustment for them, and Dave had to adapt to new roles, including learning to cook and clean.
Martha recalls that she worked outside the home for about four years before their children were born. She describes herself as a “jack of all trades and master of none.” Martha says her most important role was as a wife and mother. She has always seen herself as more of a support person to others than a leader and is most comfortable in that role.
When both of their daughters were at the University of Victoria, Martha and her husband moved to Osoyoos, BC, for six to seven years. Then, in 1994, they moved to Lethbridge to be closer to her mother. Martha and her husband were married for over 51 years. She was widowed six years ago.
Martha enjoys gardening, and her lovely established yard is a testament to that. She likes to cook and bake, though she can resist many foods that tempt her—except for her 5 p.m. glass of red wine.
Martha considers herself a Tibetan Buddhist in her personal belief system and philosophy. She was introduced to this faith system via her daughter. Martha stated, “Being mindful would simplify our lives; mindfulness is the tool to have harmony and balance; we need compassion.” She says she is trying to follow a ‘Patient Path,’ accepting things as they are.
Martha, an LSCO member for about 20 years, still feels the organization’s Mission Statement rings true to her. She keeps active and volunteers in the kitchen and wherever she is needed. She also regularly volunteers for the Lethbridge Horticultural Society, especially at the flower gardens by the Henderson tennis courts.
Martha likes the outdoors, enjoying activities such as walking and kayaking in the summer. She enjoys most kinds of music, such as country, classical, and jazz. She also enjoys knitting and Wordle. She says she is reverting to her “youth of play” by enjoying activities like ladderball and card games. Martha believes it is important to smile and laugh and not get lost in negativity. “Don’t take yourself too seriously, or you will lose your ability to laugh at yourself.”
Martha lives by the rule: “If you don’t have anything nice to say about somebody, don’t say anything.” She is not a proponent of “sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you,” as she says that “you can never take words back!”

Martha presents as a warm, friendly, and generous person, and I was pleased to learn this little bit more about her. She is a gift to the LSCO community!
Previous Member Spotlights can be found on our website at www.lethseniors.com/blog
If you are interested in being interviewed for a Member Spotlight please contact Hannah at hdupuis@lethseniors.com or 403-320-2222 ext. 302