Alma Gutfriend

1937 ~ 2026

With a smile that could light up any room and a heart dedicated to lifting others, Alma lived every day as a masterclass in compassion. Her kindness, warmth and unwavering love for family and friends touched countless lives. It is with profound sadness that the family announces her peaceful passing in Medicine Hat on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the age of 89 years. Alma Gutfriend (née Otto) was born on February 16, 1937, in Medicine Hat on August 20, 1954. She married the love of her life, Michael Gutfriend and together they built a life centered on family, friendship and community. Alma joyfully raised four children: Wayne (Diane) Gutfriend, Bernice (David) Weatherby, Brian (Joe Ann) Gutfriend and Michelle (Arnold (Sandy)) VanBeveren. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose greatest happiness came from the people she loved. Alma was the guiding light for her eight grandchildren: Jennifer Gutfriend, Stephanie (Ryan) Armstrong, Melissa (Cory) Montean, Matthew Gutfriend (Robyn Atkinson), Micheal (Kendal) Weatherby, Jason (Tanya) Weatherby, Tammy (Brian) Tait, Jordan Kahut and two special grandchildren, Brian Petersen and Michelle VanBeveren; each of whom she made feel cherished and uniquely special. Her legacy continued to grow through her 15 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to experience her boundless love, generosity and gentle spirit. Alma was predeceased by her beloved husband, Michael; her daughter, Michelle; her sisters, Florence, Gladys, and Ethel; and her late-life companion, Wallace Wutzke. A dedicated community volunteer, Alma gave generously of her time and talents. After a long career at the Bank of Montreal, Alma volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the Veiner Centre and served on the board of the 5 Pin Bowling Association, to name a few. Her commitment to helping others reflected the compassion that defined her life. Alma embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. She was an avid bowler who loved music, singing, dancing and playing cards. She had a remarkable gift for bringing people together. Family gatherings at Alma’s home were filled with laughter, shared meals, songs around the table and countless spirited games of Hand and Foot Canasta. If you knew Alma, you knew her love of travel, family celebrations, warm hugs and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. Many family traditions will continue because of Alma’s loving influence. Her treasured German strudel recipe, famous “Sex in a Pan” dessert and homemade egg noodles were shared not only as food but as expressions of love, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Though her family is heartbroken by her loss, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and the example she set through a life of kindness, generosity and unconditional love. Alma’s legacy lives on in every family gathering, every shared meal, every warm embrace and every act of compassion inspired by her remarkable life. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Her family would like to thank the caring staff at AgeCare Riverview for the care and attention they provided to Alma. Celebration Of Life Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Murray Jaster officiating Luncheon to follow at Reflections Reception Facility Because Alma was such a bright light to all who knew her, those attending are encouraged to wear bright colours as a tribute to her joyful spirit. The service will be live-streamed. Those who cannot attend but wish to experience her celebration may visit the Cook Southland’s website and select the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Crematorium & Reflections Reception Facility, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4V4.  Telephone:  403-527-6455 or toll free at: 1-877-528-6455.

• Date : 2026-06-08
• Location : Medicine Hat, Alberta

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