Joseph Paul Mraz, of Brooks, passed away in Brooks on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, at the age of 51 years. Joe was born in the old Brooks Hospital on January 15th, 1973, to Joseph and Carol Mraz. He attended school in Brooks, rarely missing a day unless very ill, because that is where all his friends were. Joe attended Medicine Hat College for 1 year after graduation, but after spending a summer as a welder’s helper, decided to apprentice as a welder. He worked as a welder for over 25 years in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Joe loved his job, he also loved hunting and fishing, especially with his good friends Reid, Aaron, Cody and his son Riley. He was very sociable and loved to have fun. Joe’s close friends were with him in the good times, of which there were many, as well as the troubled times, helping him to negotiate the obstacles of life and Joe’s family would like to thank them for their many years of friendship and support. He was predeceased by his father Joe, grandparents, John and Anna Mraz and Alton and Betty Logan, as well as aunts and uncles on both sides of the family. Joe is survived by his son Riley; mother, Carole; sisters, Krista (James) and Kathryn; nephew Shamus and nieces Erin and Claire. As per Joe’s wishes there will be no formal service, but a gathering of family and close friends will be held at a later date. In memory of Joe, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Brooks Mental Health Association, Bag 300, Brooks, Alberta T1R 1B3.
Cremation entrusted to and conducted at
Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks
Funeral arrangements entrusted to
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca
Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652
“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our loving and cherished husband, father and papa John William Cameron McKenzie at the age of 93 on October 8, 2024.
Born at home in Drumheller, Alberta on May 11, 1931, to James and Susan McKenzie. John leaves behind a legacy of love, community service and entrepreneurship that will forever be cherished by his family and all who knew him.
John is survived by the love of his life of 65 years, Noreen, and his three daughters Stacey (Myles), Alison (Mark) and Fiona. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, Samantha (Brent), Grayson, Liam, Logan, Emily, Seth & Finn. They will always remember their Papa’s love, wisdom and generous spirit.
A prominent businessman, John was the owner of Excelsior Motors and Furniture in Drumheller for over 40 years. John used to say, “We sold everything from toothpicks to cars.”
John was also a dedicated public servant serving as an Alderman in Drumheller. He was an active member of the Kinsmen Club and Chamber of Commerce.
John’s community spirit shone bright in recent years where he worked alongside a good friend, raising money for the Drumheller Hospital Foundation. His generous heart and tireless dedication to his community will live on for years to come.
Our Dad loved horses, dogs, gardening, the Drumheller Valley, Fish Lake, his Scottish roots and everything outdoors. Rest in peace dear father. We will keep you in our hearts and minds forever and always. Your girls.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to the Drumheller Hospital Foundation - 351-9 St. N.W. T0J 0Y1. In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be a small family internment in the Spring.