Lynda Frank

Lynda is lovingly remembered by her husband of 50 years, Alfred B. Youngman; her daughter, Charlotte Buffalo; her sons, Rising Wolf Youngman and Travis Frank; and her cherished grandchildren: Chenise Soosay, Layne and Nyle Youngman, Kyle Buffalo and Shayne Bellam, Sonny Soosay, Brandy Bellam, and Kia Elias and numerous great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Karen, Eloise, Corine, and Heather, and her brothers Kelvin, Ruben, Irvin, Allan, and Henry.

She was predeceased by her parents, Bernice and Alex Frank of Little Pine, Saskatchewan; her son, Francis “Sonny” Buffalo; her daughter, Carrie Ann Bellam; and her siblings Lance, Gloria, Burton, Elaine, and Pauline.

Lynda was born on January 22, 1949, in Maidstone, Saskatchewan. She lived a life of generosity, kindness, and unending devotion to family. Her love of travel took her across the world—England, Australia, Mexico—and to many places across North America, including New York City, Ottawa, Chicago, and Santa Fe. She also cherished the years she spent in Piscataway, New Jersey, while Alfred completed his doctoral degree in Anthropology at Rutgers University.

Lynda had a special love for British Columbia during harvest time, returning home with fruit that she would immediately share with family, friends, and anyone visiting from Little Pine. No one ever left her home empty-handed. Whether in Lethbridge or back in her home community, she was known for her generosity and her endless hours spent preparing meals for loved ones. She delighted in cooking, visiting, and nurturing friendships new and old.

Her dedication to her family in Little Pine was unwavering. She could always be counted on at feeds, powwows, and memorials—arriving with boxes and bags of food to honour those who had passed. She was a pillar in keeping her family connected, reaching out often to ask how she could help. Lynda also treasured her close relationship with Alfred’s sister, Shirley, in Browning, Montana, making many heartfelt visits that strengthened the bonds of family on both sides.

Lynda’s sudden departure has left her family and community deeply wounded. Yet they take comfort in knowing she is reunited with loved ones who journeyed before her. She will be missed beyond measure. Her love, guidance, and strength will remain forever in the hearts of those she touched. She was truly one of the matriarchs of her generation.

A Visitation and Wake Service was held. Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home. Lynda will be laid to rest with her beloved children in the Samson Cemetery at a later date.