
“He really is an amazing fellow. Falling into the category of farmer, rancher, entrepreneur, cattle buyer and story teller, to mention just a few, Francis is one of seven siblings born to Henry and Marie Suntjens. He got his schooling the hard way by living usually four miles or better from school, these schools being Newell and Bentley. Things got a bit better when he attended West Wingham and he could walk the distance. Francis grew up in hard times when jobs were scarce and money still scarcer. But, these conditions only served to build character and upright citizens. We can count him among those. As a young married man, he soon realized the area he was in was not good for farming so he moved into cattle. Nine children came to this couple and over the years he formed companies with his family and amassed huge holdings of diversified properties. He had a great love for buying cattle and therein lies the storyteller. When he gets started, his experiences are many, entertaining and true. He did well as a father giving his children the best education possible so they could follow their various professions….”
– Excerpt from the Hanna Herald
He was still an avid card player, still engaged in the news of the day, still driving his car and still involved in the affairs of his huge family until the very end of his long and rewarding life. A memorial service in honor of Francis Suntjens was conducted on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 11 a.m. in the Coronation Community Centre, Coronation, AB with Father Arlan Parenteau officiating. A tribute to Dad from Cliff Suntjens was read by Willa Suntjens. Clint Suntjens shared memories from the grandchildren. Kim Gesner shared a tribute with many memories of her Dad.
Joli Suntjens shared a poem that she had written. Readers were Sara Glover and Cameron Dykstra and Prayers of the Faithful was given by Noreen McConnell. Special recorded music was “If Heaven”, “Local Flowers” and “Just A Closer Walk With Thee”. A video tribute was played during the service. Urn bearers were Blair Glasier and Alana Staples and honourary pallbearers were “All of Francis’ Grandchildren”. Following the service the interment took place at the Coronation Cemetery. Lunch was served at the Community Centre which was prepared by the Spondin Community.
Memorial donations may be given to The Coronation Cemetery Association, Box 115, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0, The Paintearth Lodge, Box 209, Castor, AB, T0C 0X0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements. 1-888-578-2928. “Knowledge, Experience And Professionalism With A Personal Touch”