Obituary of Rhonda Haroldson

In Loving Memory of Rhonda Mae Haroldson

May 10, 1955 - December 26, 2023

HAROLDSON – Rhonda Mae (nee O’Dell), age 68 passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. Rhonda was born in Edmonton, AB and the family lived in Drayton Valley until she was 7 years old. The family then moved to Pennant for 6 years and settled on the family farm in Success in 1967. Rhonda graduated from high school in 1973. She continued her education in Regina where she studied Dental Therapy. She began her dental profession in 1975 with the Saskatchewan Health Dental Plan. The program employed Dental Therapists in school-based clinics to provide basic dental care to children. Rhonda worked for the SHDP until the program’s termination in 1987. Rhonda continued to work in several dental offices in Swift Current, then being an avid student, in 1995, returned to school in Regina to train in Dental Hygiene. Rhonda had a long and successful career of over 46 years. She was well respected, and known for her professionalism, kindness, and calm demeanor. She retired from First Avenue Dental on April 8, 2021, after 22 years.

In 2000, Rhonda, Teresa and Connie embarked on a new endeavor. They owned and operated 3 Curves Franchises until 2015. Many trips to Las Vegas for conventions were made together resulting in many good memories, including a picture and autographed PJs by Michael Jackson!

Rhonda met the love of her life, Monte, before graduating high school. They had a short courtship before Monte proposed at the Drive-in movie theatre. Rhonda and Monte were married in 1975. Together they raised 3 children, Melissa, Travis and Jenna.

Rhonda was a true crafter at heart. Beginning with ceramics, paper tole, and leathercraft, eventually landing on sewing. As a beautiful sewist, Rhonda could create clothing, quilts, embroidery, totes, handbags, and wallets. Every project was fussed over to only end up perfect. Rhonda also enjoyed gardening, flowers, and plants. Every spring was a time to dream of the garden to come, which she and Monte would work on together. She was known to always plant an “extra” zucchini…. And all who knew her, especially workmates, would reap the benefits.

Rhonda’s 7 grandchildren held an extra special place in her heart. She would look forward to visits, a call, or a text from them. She was known to make many crepes upon request from them all. Rhonda was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer in July of 2023. She fought a hard battle to overcome the disease including a long, complicated surgery. Rhonda’s faith was a guiding light that kept her strong. At Rhonda’s request, on December 23, over 40 family members gathered at their home to celebrate a beautiful Christmas that her family will never forget.

Rhonda is survived by Monte, her loving husband of 48 years; daughter Melissa, son Travis and daughter Jenna (Logan); grandchildren Ainsley, Owen, Gage, Ryder, Eden, Linden, and Zayde; her mother Gertrude O’Dell; sisters Kim (Les), Teresa (Darwin) and Connie (Don), plus numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Robert Milton “Milt” (2010).

One of Rhonda’s wishes was to have a foundation created in her honor and memory. We are pleased to announce that “Smile for Rhonda,” a local, non-profit account has been set up just for this. All donations made to the foundation will be used to provide a chosen candidate with dental care that would otherwise be affordable. Any donations given in Rhonda’s honor can be made directly to “Smile for Rhonda”, at the Innovation Credit Union or by e-transfer to SmileForRhonda@gmail.com First Avenue Dental has so graciously agreed to match the first $2500.00 in donations received. “Smile for Rhonda,” together with First Avenue Dental, will make it possible to bring forth someone’s smile!

“You still live on in the hearts and minds of the loving family you left behind.” Bye for now, Mom.

Click on the link below to watch livestreaming of the service.

  https://boxcast.tv/view/rhonda-haroldson-funeral-service-bviejanss5rkiyjsce7m?_gl=1*ewvhcr*_ga*MTE0NTU3OTE0Ni4xNzA0MjMyNTA3*_ga_PXBBF7HVWQ*MTcwNDIzMjUwNi4xLjEuMTcwNDIzMjgzMi4wLjAuMA..