Magdaline Penny Cress

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Magdaline Penny Cress, who passed away on April 23, 2026, at Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of eighty-two.

Magdalene was a devoted and loving mother to Phillip and Jonathan. She was a proud grandmother to Justin, Mathew, and Isabella; as well as a cherished great grandmother to Baxter, who brought her immense joy and pride. She was a loving sister to Angeline, Melva, and Sidney (in law). She dearly loved her nephews and nieces: Patricia, Isabelle, Jim (Philbert), Shelly, Nellie, Debbie, and Thomas.

Magdaline was predeceased by her ex-husband George Cress, her partner Ron Brown, her parents: Frank Eli and Lucy Willows, brothers: Lawrence, Floyd, sisters: Viola, Hazel, Alva, each of whom remained close in her heart.

Magdaline lived a life rooted in compassion, strength, and quiet resilience. She was raised on the Blood Reserve and was a survivor of St. Paul's Residential School an experience that shaped her in profound ways and spoke to the strength she carried throughout her years. She dedicated her career to caring for others as a nurse, offering comfort and kindness to countless people in their most vulnerable moments. Beyond her work she carried a deep cultural connection as a fluent Blackfoot speaker, a part of her identity that reflected her heritage, wisdom, and the stories she carried through generations.

She found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments like getting lost in an enjoyable book, dancing with warmth and laughter, exploring nature's beauty through hiking, and spending time cooking for those she loved. She had a gentle spirit and a caring heart. Her love was constant, her presence deeply comforting, and her strength an inspiration to all who knew her.

The legacy she leaves behind is one of unconditional love, cultural pride, and enduring kindness. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in the memories she gave us and the love she leaves behind. She will be missed beyond words and remembered always.

A private family service will be held. In honour of her memory, the family invites you to hold your loved ones a little closer and cherish every moment.

Friends may meet with family at CHRISTENSEN SALMON GENERATIONS FUNERAL HOME, 703-13 St. N. A Wake will be held on May 8, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Funeral Services (Mass) will be held at St. Paul’s Cardston 90 1st Ave W, on May 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Sidney Black officiating. Interment to follow in St. Pauls Cemetery.