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DONNA JOYCE HANEL
Born: Aug 24, 1946
Date of Passing: Sep 02, 2025
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
DONNA JOYCE HANEL
Donna Hanel, the beloved wife of Frank Hanel, passed away peacefully at St. Boniface Hospital on September 2, 2025.
Donna grew up in East Kildonan. Early in her career she worked at a clerical job at the University of Manitoba (U of M). During this time, she met Frank who was pursuing his studies in psychology at the U of M, and they soon married.
Donna and Frank enjoyed the outdoors camping and fishing in the Whiteshell. In the mid-80s, their love of the region led them to become owners of the Big Buffalo Resort in Falcon Lake. The summers were busy as they welcomed guests for weekly stays in their cabins close to the lake. During the winter Donna spent time working for local businesses in the Whiteshell park area. She also cared for her 80-year-old mother who came to reside with them in Falcon Lake until her passing.
After 10 years of being entrepreneurs in the resort business, Donna and Frank returned to city life in Winnipeg. Residing in East Kildonan they enjoyed the company of lifelong friends. Donna had an infectious smile and kind demeanor and was always ready to lend a helping hand where needed.
Donna loved animals and always had a place for more than one or two dogs and cats in her life. She enjoyed her time when she volunteered at the Winnipeg Humane Society as she could be around more of the furry critters she enjoyed so much.
Donna was predeceased by father Roderick, mother Anona and her brother Doug. She is survived by her sister-in-law Heather and nephews, Peter and Scott McKenzie. Donna will be missed by all her Hanel in-laws residing in Winnipeg, Edmonton and in Ontario.
Special thanks to Donwood Manor and to Concordia and St. Boniface Hospitals for all the compassionate care received by Donna in 2025.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Knox United Church, 400 Edmonton St., Winnipeg, at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025.
Any donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 13, 2025