To the People of the Oyen District

Dear Editor,

This is a letter of heartfelt appreciation for the support our parents received from many people in this district. Ruth and Don Siferd arrived in Oyen in December 1967 in search of new opportunities, with three small children, 10, 8, and 5. Oyen not only became their (and our) home but gave us roots and a sense of belonging. Dad frequently said coming to Oyen was one of the best decisions in his life.

Dad’s work with Special Areas, Mom’s employment at the TD Bank, and their involvement in the Lions Club, especially, provided our family with a sense of stability and hopefulness. They truly enjoyed their life in this community and found pleasure in reading about the district through the hard work of Diana, now Kate, and everyone at the Oyen Echo throughout the years. Those kindnesses continued into their later years when they lived at the Oyen Lodge and then recently in Continuing Care.

Dad’s death on June 15 was peaceful, occurring in a place that he loved. Regretfully, the time has come for Mom to live closer to one of us so she will be moving to Edmonton on November 8.

Her and our memories of Oyen and the expressions of love we received over the years will never be forgotten. Mom will continue to look forward to reading about the people of Oyen through her Oyen Echo subscription.

- Pat Siferd, Tim Siferd, and Peggy Kett