Obituary of Donna Chow

Donna passed away on Tuesday July 5, 2005, at the age of 39 years, after a courageous three-year battle with breast cancer. She spent her final weeks surrounded by family and friends, in the Calgary home that she loved. Donna is survived by her husband, Terry, and her children Ryan, Alexander and Nicholas. She is also survived by her parents, Don and Jeanine Petit of Big Bar, B.C.; sister Mickey (Bill) of Allen, Texas; brother Bruce (Lorena) of Airdrie; and numerous nieces and nephews. A loving wife and mother, Donna took great joy in nurturing the four “men” in her life. She firmly believed that her most important job was that of mother, and devoted herself completely to raising her boys and creating a happy home for them. Donna was a loyal and generous friend who never hesitated to share her opinion or offer advice. Gregarious and outgoing, Donna also loved to entertain. She and her husband threw frequent parties where the food and decoration rivaled those of the best caterers. Friends anticipated her annual Christmas party, in particular, where homemade eggnog was served in abundance. Donna appreciated the finer things in life (especially Callebaut chocolates and Veuve Cliquot!) but loved a bargain as well. A gifted baker, seamstress, and decorator, Donna thought nothing of whipping up a grand cake for a friend’s 30th birthday party, or sewing her own silk curtains. She had a keen eye for interior design and not only created a warm and inviting home for her own family, but also helped many of her friends decorate their homes as well. Donna was also an avid gardener, and often spoke of her trip to Monet’s Garden in 2004 as one of the highlights of her life. Even in her final days, Donna managed to make almost daily visits to her own yard, where she would direct the planting and pruning of the garden from her wheelchair. Donna’s indomitable spirit and her gift for extracting joy from each day were an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be sadly missed. Funeral Services will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church (1009 – 15th Avenue S.W.) on Saturday, July 9, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Prairies/NWT Chapter, #345 – 10909 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, T5J 3L9.