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LOVLIE

July 29, 2009

LOVLIE Mr. Gunnar Lovlie of Rimbey, Alberta passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, Red Deer on Sunday, July 19, 2009 at the age of 97 years. Gunnar was born on January 14, 1912, in Irvine, Alberta, where he took his schooling and worked for various farmers in the area, in forestry, and also as a camp cook. In the spring of 1947, Gunnar moved from the prairies to the lush green hills west and north of Bluffton, to a farm (Happy Hills) that he purchased with his sister. Soon after the move, he met and was united in marriage to Martha Belter, where they worked side by side on the farm. Gunnar persevered with hard work, and was able to enjoy and appreciate the many rewards that farm life has to offer. He experienced many updates; such as muddy roads to gravel roads, power, telephone, plus many more. During all the technological changes in life, Gunnar held steadfast to his faith in God. He retired in 1976, to an acreage in Rimbey. During his retirement he always enjoyed a cup of coffee with friends and family, playing horseshoes, antiques, traveling ~ especially to Israel, going for long walks, helping his family, spending time with his grandchildren, and his daily reading the Bible. Gunnar will be remembered for his 'life-long' positive outlook in life, even when his health was failing, as he always noted that someone was worse off than him. He always had a smile, a twinkle in his eye, and he appreciated what life had to offer him as everyday was a good day! Gunnar always said he was blessed, as he had a good and long life. Gunnar will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 58 years, Martha; his son, David Lovlie of Sylvan Lake; and his two daughters, Clara (Bob) Schwieger of Bluffton; and Edith (Danny) Beach of Lacombe; as well as thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. He will also be lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law, Margaret Lovlie of Calgary; and by extended family, Donnalyn and Peter Froese; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends. Gunnar was predeceased by his parents, Martin and Elsie Lovlie; two sons, Siegfried and Irwin; two brothers, Asbjorne and Gustave; two sisters, Kjordis and Signe; and one daughter-in-law, Elaine. A Public Funeral Service in Celebration of Gunnar's Life was held at the Rimbey Church of the Nazarene, Rimbey on Friday, July 24, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. with the Reverend Donnalyn Froese and the Reverend Len Bachiu officiating. Interment followed in the Iola Fairview Cemetery, Bluffton. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Gunnar's Memory may be made directly to the Iola Fairview Cemetery Fund, c/o R.R. #2, Bluffton, Alberta T0C 0M0; or to the charity of one's choice. Condolences to the Family may also be expressed by e-mail to: special_reflections@telusplanet.net Funeral and Burial Arrangements for the Late Mr. Gunnar Lovlie entrusted to the care of OBERHAMMER FUNERAL CHAPELS LTD. Rimbey, Alberta Telephone 403-843-4445