DONNA GAIL KACHKOWSKY (SUTHERLAND)

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DONNA GAIL KACHKOWSKY (nee SUTHERLAND) Peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, June 17, 2016, Donna passed away at the Selkirk General Hospital at the age of 67. Donna was predeceased by her loving husband Andy; her father Doug; and mother-in-law Ann. Also by in-laws Allan, Dorothy and Alex. Left to cherish her memory is her daughter Cherisse; son-in-law Jamie; mother Martha; sister Jean (Bill); brother David (Addie); and in-laws, Patsy (Larry), Elsie and Diane; as well as many nieces and nephews that were very special to her. Donna was born on February 5, 1949 in Selkirk, MB. She was the oldest of her siblings, and they shared a close, lasting bond through adulthood. Upon her high school graduation, she began working as a legal secretary for Danny Williams and later David L. Moore. Donna so enjoyed her job and her colleagues at the office, that she often worked around the clock during her 40 year tenure there. Donna and Andy started their forever love when they met at Booth Fisheries. Married on September 27, 1969, they welcomed their daughter Cherisse on August 4, 1975, and embraced the addition of Jamie, who she thought of and treated as a son, to their family in 1995. Always proud of Cherisse and her accomplishments, they enjoyed a close mother-daughter bond. When Andy passed in 2007, Donna was heartbroken. She held tight to the lifetime of love and memories their family made together. Donna had a kind soul and a heart of gold, always putting others before herself. She loved camping with Cherisse and Jamie, playing bingo, bus trips to the casinos in the states with her mother Martha, and her trips to Acapulco, Mexico with Patsy and Cherisse. She enjoyed cooking and baking--mainly so she could share it with others and ensure they were well cared for. She had a fond love for the family pets and spent many hours outdoors with them when she tended to her flower gardens and yard. In her life, Donna battled many illnesses such as diabetes and resulting complications to her eyes and feet, and most recently cancer. She faced these challenges with a quiet determination. We thank all her medical providers, friends and family who supported her through the years. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of her life will be held at Christ Church Anglican, 227 McLean Ave, Selkirk, MB., on Wednesday, June 22 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Brad Elliott officiating. If desired, donations in memory of Donna may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Diabetes Association of Manitoba or Christ Church Anglican, Selkirk, MB. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk, in care of arrangements. www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 20, 2016