Clarence (1938) and Marie (née Hoeppner, 1937), “crossed the bar” together on February 7 2026 in Cochrane, AB with their three children, children’s partners, and grandchildren at their side. Both came from families that struggled for survival in rural Manitoba. They met at age 15 and enjoyed more than 66 full and adventurous years of marriage. They were a constant presence and support to their offspring and their families, and to many nieces and nephews. Clarence trained in medicine, and Marie in nursing. After they started a family, Marie was fully dedicated to homemaking, hospitality, raising family, and supporting local and eventually international community in numerous ways. Clarence had a career as a physician, researcher, administrator, leader, and international developer. In their professional and personal lives they sought to listen to, understand, support and encourage others. They traveled widely, learned vigorously, and contributed enthusiastically in every way they could. Their guide and hope was that people would live “not raising barriers between each other but rather opening channels”.

Their time with us ended with remarkable equanimity, and with gratitude for lives that had been abundant, engaged, and lacking in nothing.

At Clarence and Marie’s request there will not be a public service.