Mrs. Laura Betty Wittchen of Red Deer, Alberta passed away after a brief illness, at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the age of 92 years. Laura was born at Madden, Alberta on December 17, 1930, in the foothills of her beloved mountains, the eighth of nine children born to Milda and William Liddell. She was raised on the family farm, surrounded by family, and red and white-faced Hereford cattle. She trained as a Nursing Aide and was working in that capacity at the Drumheller Hospital when she met John Wittchen. After a brief courtship, they were married and settled in Hanna, Alberta. A few short years later, the young couple and their eldest son moved to Red Deer. It was here that Mom grew her career as wife, mother and “Jill” of all trades. Her greatest pride were her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She could and DID do it all – always doing her best with whatever resources she had available to her. Some of her career highlights include best turkey stuffing EVER; throwing balls endlessly so her kids could practice hitting with the little green bat; being an ardent (and vocal) supporter at countless hockey and ball games; acting as the most reliable Advocate Carrier substitute so that her children could participate in their sports; and proudly throwing rose petals as a “Flower Granny” at a granddaughter’s wedding. She played a significant role in the upbringing of many of her grandchildren. She was more of a follower than a leader – except when it came to exercises and yoga at Rivera Aspen Ridge. In fact, during her brief hospital stay, she spent one morning trying to teach her nurse yoga breathing! She greatly appreciated the friendship of “her girls” at Aspen Ridge, and the ongoing morning pool games that began when she and Johnny first moved into their suite. Mom and Dad both loved musical entertainment and Mom was always looking for a dance partner once Johnny was no longer able to participate. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude for the kindness shown to Mom and all our family during her stay on Unit 32 Palliative Care. Thanks also for the wonderful care and support she received from the staff at Rivera Aspen Ridge. Laura will be lovingly remembered by her children, Terry (Sue) of Red Deer, Alberta, Larry (Jackie) of Osoyoos, British Columbia, Steven of Red Deer, Alberta, Deb (Rich) of Red Deer, Alberta, and Wendy (Anne) of Houston, Texas; her seven grandchildren and her thirteen (one due in November) great grandchildren. She will also be sadly missed by her sister, Jean Ryan of Delta, British Columbia; her sister-in-law, Ev Wittchen of Drumheller, Alberta and numerous other family members and dear friends. Laura was predeceased by her husband of sixty-nine years, John; her parents, Milda and William Liddell; her four sisters; her three brothers and her two sons, Gary and Barry. A joint Celebration of Life for Laura and John will be held at Parkland Funeral Home, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer, Alberta on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. If desired, Memorial Donations in Laura and/or John’s honor may be made directly to a Charity of the Donor’s choice. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

• Date : 2023-06-07
• Location : (Red Deer) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com