DONNA ELAINE GILLESPIE

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DONNA ELAINE GILLESPIE

(LUND)

November 30, 1938 - June 5, 2023

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Donna’s passing. She was predeceased by her brother Gilmour and her son-in-law Roger. She leaves behind her children, Cheryl (Bruce Grewar), Colleen, Garth (Deanna); and grandchildren, Chelsey, Shona, Garth Jr. and Victoria; in addition to many friends, relatives and grandpets.

Donna lived in many places growing up, including Winnipeg, Elphinstone, Lynn Lake and Fort Saskatchewan. Upon high school graduation, she returned to Winnipeg on her own. She moved in with her Aunt Agnes, Uncle Alex and cousin Mave where she made many happy memories. She began working at CIBC as a banker before enrolling in Misericordia Nursing School.

Her career as a nurse began in Deloraine, and later back in Winnipeg in public health. She particularly enjoyed her work as a school nurse. She was an active member of the nurses’ union and spent a number of years on the pension advisory committee, work she was proud to do. As a single mother, Donna worked tirelessly to provide for her three children, and taught them the importance of hard work and advocacy.

Donna loved being a nurse but being a grandma (or GMA) was her favourite. After retiring from nursing, she took on the role of full-time grandma, where she nannied for her twin grandchildren, Chelsey and Shona, for many years. It was important to her that she also had a presence in the lives of her grandchildren in Calgary and will be remembered for making countless road trips to visit them over Christmases and summers.

She enjoyed many hobbies throughout her life. Her commitment to and love for flower gardening was learned on the farm from her grandmother, and later passed on to her children and grandchildren. She was also a very good seamstress, knitter and baker. She did not enjoy baking as much but would always ensure there was a Christmas pudding every year. She volunteered for many years as an usher at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.

Donna will be remembered for her welcoming spirit, quick wit and selfless love for others. She always had an open-door policy at her home - everyone was welcomed in for a meal, cup of coffee, or glass of wine. She made friends everywhere she went - nursing school, airplanes, shops, her local Salisbury House; Donna had a true gift for connecting with just about anyone.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Donna’s neighbours, with a special thank you to Ben, for all their help and support throughout the years.

Donna’s Celebration of Life will take place on June 22, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., at Charleswood United Church, 4820 Roblin Boulevard. All are welcome.

Donations in memory of Donna may be made to Resource Assistance for Youth (RAY) or the Winnipeg Humane Society.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 17, 2023