Laureen Auestad of Lethbridge (formerly of Milo), beloved wife of Ralph Auestad, passed away peacefully at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital on November 11, 2022 at the age of 80 years.
Laureen was born December 8,1941 in Lac La Biche, AB, to Jacob and Pearl Hayduk and raised here along with her siblings Gail and Richard. She attended school in Lac La Biche, graduating from high school in 1958. She then worked for the Imperial Bank of Canada from 1958 to 1960 in Edmonton and then for the Bank of Montreal in Calgary from 1960 to 1967.
Laureen married Ralph Auestad of Milo in July of 1967 and together they raised two children – Allan and Deb. Ralph and Laureen kept busy over the years with their kid’s activities and enjoyed their community. Ralph and Laureen eventually moved to High River and finally to Lethbridge where they continued to reside until Laureen’s passing.
Laureen’s pride and joy were her two granddaughters Ashley and Sarah Lebsack. She also loved crocheting, cross stitching, cards, and just being with her friends and family.
Laureen is survived by her husband Ralph, daughter Deb Lebsack, two granddaughters Ashley and Sarah Lebsack, all of Lethbridge, siblings Gail (Murray) Phillips of High River, Richard (Dixie) Hayduk of Vancouver , sister-in-law Helen (Barry) Campbell and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and son Allan in 1994.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Milo Community Hall on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 1 pm with inurnment in Hope Lutheran Cemetery, Milo, AB.
Tributes in Laureen’s memory can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, 1620 – 29 St NW, Suite 300, Calgary, AB, T2N 4L7, or online at www.albertacancer.ca/donate.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences through www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca.
Laureen was my best friend from 1952 when my family moved to Lac La Biche and for the next 70 years we remained good friends although we never did live in the same city. She had a memory like a steel trap and could remember all our school foibles and was quite happy talking about them, much to my consternation! Mike and I also enjoyed our crib games with the men playing against the women!
Although this is a terribly sad time for Ralph and the family we know that you all have many wonderful memories and photos to keep Laureen in your hearts and thoughts forever. Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to all the family. Sorry we couldn’t be with you. Very fondly, Mike and Clara Marks (nee Gatzke).
Was sorry to hear of Laureens passing, we have fond memory’s of our good neighbours all those years ago. Blessings to Ralph, Deb and girls. Also to the rest of family members , peace, love and condolences!John Susan and family!
So sorry to hear this sad news. Laureen was a big part of my childhood. I remember riding my bike down the road and spending time with Laureen in her kitchen. She was a great cook and taught me a lot. Our sincere condolences to Ralph and family. Sincerely, Brian and Leslie Winters
Ralph, Debbie and girls
Sending our sincere condolences on your loss.
It is especially hard to lose a Grama.
Thinking of you all ❤️
We are so sorry to hear of Laureen’s passing. Condolences Ralph, Deb, Ashley and Sarah. We know she will be missed by you all. Thank God you have memories to carry you through the coming days and years. May she Rest in Peace.
My sincere condolences Ralph, Deb, Ashley and Sarah. Laureen has always been a friend to me since I was a young teenager. Since moving to NS I looked forward to our “mostly “ annual visits. She will be greatly missed, I truly believe she will be with you always.
Love
Theresa
Sending our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Ralph, Deb, Ashley and Sarah. Laureen was a dedicated, loving, caring wife, mom and grandma!! We know she will be missed by all of you, but remember she will always have a special place in all of your hearts and memories!!
Love always…
We are so sorry to hear of Laureen’s passing. I curled with Laureen and remember what a hard worker and community builder she was during our time in the Milo community. We trust your memories and her love will sustain you through the next difficult time. Regards, Iona and Barry Robertson.