Obituary of Donna McColeman

Donna McColeman of Okotoks passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 21, 2007 at the age of 71 years. Donna will be dearly missed by her husband Jim McColeman; brother-in-law Hugh; nieces, Allison and Lorian; great-nieces, Ayla, Christine and Anne; great-nephew Kent; and great-great niece Maya. She is leaving behind two uncles, Tim and Cameron; three aunts, Marion, Kathleen and Audrey; and many many dear cousins. She was predeceased by her parents Zaida and Frank Armstrong. Donna was born July 8, 1936 in Ottawa, grew up in Newcastle Creek, NB, went to school there and later attended Minto High School. In 1957 she completed nursing training at Saint John General Hospital where she made lifelong, close friends. She reconnected with them at many class reunions over the years. Donna was an excellent nurse. She spent an adventurous year nursing in Texas, then a short stint in Syracuse, NY. She returned to Fredericton then headed West with a classmate to Chilliwack, BC for four years where she became Head Nurse. She nursed in Turner Valley, AB and had just moved to her new home in Black Diamond with her cat “the DC” when she met Jim on a blind date. They married on November 30, 1974. She volunteered with the Women’s Auxiliary of the Black Diamond hospital. In the 1990s she completed a nursing refresher course and returned to nursing for a short time. She and Jim moved to Okotoks in 1997. We will miss Donna’s friendly outgoing nature and her warm sense of humour, often sprinkled with homespun Maritime sayings. She was an expert knitter, could never pass up a wool shop, knitted for many people and on behalf of many causes and especially enjoyed knitting sweaters for Jim. Donna enjoyed recent visits with many dear friends and relatives who helped to brighten her last few months. At Donna’s request, there will be no service. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of the donor’s choice. For their wonderful care, we wish to thank Dr. Val Congdon, the Okotoks Home Care staff and the staff of the Oilfields Hospital in Black Diamond. In living memory of Donna McColeman, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E., CALGARY, AB T2X 3J3 Telephone: 1-800-661-1599.