Friday, February 20, 2026 - Discover Hidden USA

Lethbridge and surrounding communities are mourning the recent passing of five individuals: Mary Small, Brittany Van Hierden, Mariah Spear Chief, Bruce Livingstone, and Michael Hastings. Their deaths, occurring within a two-week period in February 2026, represent a significant loss for families and the wider community.

A Week of Remembrance

Mary Small (1929-2026)

Mary Small, 97, of Lethbridge, passed away on February 7, 2026, at Chinook Regional Hospital. She is remembered by her daughter Gwen Miller, son Jerry Small, and their respective families, including three great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 23, 2026, at Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel. Donations in her memory are encouraged to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Brittany Van Hierden (1989-2026)

Brittany Lynn Van Hierden, 36, died on February 13, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born and raised on a dairy farm near Fort Macleod, she pursued a career in law enforcement, ultimately joining the RCMP in 2019 and serving in Pelican Narrows, Rose Valley, and Rosthern, Saskatchewan. Despite her illness, she continued to seek opportunities for treatment and remained optimistic about returning to work. A Funeral Service will be held on February 24, 2026, at the University Drive Alliance Church, following condolences on February 23rd. Donations can be made to the RCMP Benevolent Fund.

Did You Know? Brittany Van Hierden completed several marathons while serving as an RCMP officer and battling cancer.

Mariah Spear Chief (1995-2026)

Mariah Rae Spear Chief, 30, of Lethbridge, passed away on February 17, 2026, at St. Michael’s Health Centre. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Bruce Livingstone (1949-2026)

Bruce Livingstone, 76, passed away peacefully in Calgary on February 16, 2026. He is survived by his wife Patricia, their children, and numerous grandchildren. The family has chosen to hold a private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.

Michael Hastings (1951-2026)

Michael Louis Hastings, 74, died on February 11, 2026, three months after being diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. A retired Lethbridge College teacher, he was known for his faith, adventurous spirit, and dedication to ministry. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28, 2026, at Park Meadows Baptist Church.

Expert Insight: The cluster of obituaries highlights the unpredictable nature of life and loss, and the importance of community support during times of grief. The varied backgrounds and ages of those who passed underscore that mortality affects individuals from all walks of life.

Looking Ahead

The coming days will see families gather to celebrate the lives of their loved ones. The services planned at Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel, University Drive Alliance Church, and Park Meadows Baptist Church will provide opportunities for the community to offer condolences and support. The RCMP Benevolent Fund and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada will see an increase in donations following these announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of a Celebration of Life?

A Celebration of Life is a service focused on remembering and honoring the life of the deceased, rather than mourning their passing. It is a way for family and friends to share memories and celebrate the positive impact the person had on their lives.

Where did Brittany Van Hierden serve as an RCMP officer?

Brittany Van Hierden served with the RCMP in Pelican Narrows, Rose Valley, and Rosthern, Saskatchewan.

What organizations are receiving memorial donations in lieu of flowers?

Memorial donations are being directed to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, the RCMP Benevolent Fund, the Canadian Diabetes Association, and the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.

How do communities best support one another during periods of collective loss?