Ernest Ralph Halmrast

With gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Ernest Ralph Halmrast, of Milk River, AB, and Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at the age of 94 years.

Ernie had a very diversified life in his 94 years: sheepherding, training horses, cattle, and dogs, and coal mining. In 1954, Ernie married Elizabeth (Elsie) Russell living east of Milk River for over 50 years. In 1957, Ernie’s Dad talked with people along the Milk River, and they all agreed there should be a park amongst the hoodoos. Along with his brothers and some neighbours, they cleaned up the brush, made parking stalls, and built two kitchens. Later an interpretive centre was built. This park is known as Writing on Stone Provincial Park and is very popular today.

Ernie and his wife Elsie competed in many western competitions, winning many medals and trophies. Ernie was very proud to have won the trophy in cutting competitions for Southern Alberta. He also raised Red Poll Cattle and won Grand Champion Bull and Heifer in Regina and Calgary. After a very fulfilling life, Ernie and Elsie retired to Lethbridge, Alberta.

Ernie is survived by his sisters, Audrey (Emil) Sribney, and Marion Kostiuk; God-Daughters, Denise Sribney, and Cathy Bianchi; many nieces, and nephews; and his lifelong friends, George Russell, and Bill Craik.

Ernie is predeceased by his loving wife, Elizabeth “Elsie” Halmrast (nee Russell); his parents; and brothers, Lawrence Halmrast and Cecil Halmrast.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made to Stars Air Ambulance at stars.ca, or a charity of your choice. 

Thank you to Dr. Hargrove and the staff at Lindenview, Taber for all the wonderful care they showed Ernie. 

A Memorial Service will be held on April 1, 2023, at 1:00 pm at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church (1818 - 5 Avenue S. Lethbridge, Alberta).