Family Urgently Seeks Return of Stolen Mother’s Ashes

URGENT UPDATE: A family in Chestermere is pleading for the return of their mother’s ashes, stolen during a break-in early Tuesday morning. The theft has left the family devastated, as they mourn the loss of Anna Thompson, who passed away in December.

According to Deanna Thompson, Anna’s daughter, the family is heartbroken over the secondary loss of her remains. “We’re devastated. We just want our mom back,” Thompson expressed. The incident took place on Cove Road, where security footage captured two suspects entering the backyard and forcing open the back door.

Among the stolen items was a red velvet bag with a gold tassel, which contained a black urn holding Anna’s ashes. Thompson believes the thieves may have mistakenly taken it, thinking it held valuables. “I can’t imagine they did it on purpose. They probably assumed it was something of value,” she said. “There’s no value to them, but it’s priceless to us.”

In a desperate search, the family has been tracking an iPad stolen during the same robbery. Its last known location pinged near the intersection of McKnight Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard in northeast Calgary. “We searched the area. We didn’t find anything, but it’s a large area,” Thompson noted. “We continue to search today, but it’s a bit of a needle in a haystack.”

The family is calling on residents in both Chestermere and Calgary to review their security footage and keep an eye out for the distinctive velvet bag. “Her funeral is scheduled for January 17, and we’re desperately hoping the public will help us find her if (the ashes) have been discarded somewhere,” Thompson urged.

Additionally, the RCMP has confirmed they are investigating the break-in, with the two individuals captured on video now identified as suspects. Thompson emphasized that her primary concern is the safe return of her mother, rather than pursuing criminal charges. “I don’t care about anyone being charged. I just want my mom back,” she reiterated.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the RCMP or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. The family remains hopeful that the community can assist in recovering the ashes and bringing some closure during this painful time.