Obituary of Sheila Brinsmead

May 30, 1933 – Edmonton, Alberta

April 15, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

In loving memory of Sheila, our dear mother and friend, who passed away at the remarkable age of 90, on Monday, April 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy as vibrant as her painting palette. Sheila approached life with the whimsy of an artist. Her canvas was the world, and her family was her masterpiece.

She is survived by her children, Mary-Leigh (Pat) Doyle, Carol Corriveau, Mark (Jacqueline) Brinsmead, Ruth (Ted) Mieszkalski, Tom (Sharon) Brinsmead, Don Brinsmead and Laura Sullivan; along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her brother Neal Monaghan, her sister Gail (Jim) Ryan, and many nieces and nephews. Sheila was predeceased by her husband, Gilbert, in 1991, as well as her brother Kevin Monaghan, and her parents, Marie and William Monaghan of Edmonton.

With a twinkle in her eye and a sharp wit, Sheila could turn any moment into a humorous anecdote. She left smiles on the faces of those around her.

While raising seven children and a long-term foster child, Sheila pursued her passions of reading, sharing her artistic flair, and was a teacher and an active member of the St. Gerard Parish. In her later years, she devoted herself to her art, finding joy in her creative pursuits.  She was a valued and talented member of several art clubs in Calgary. 

Sheila was a resident at United Active Living Fish Creek for almost eight years and thoroughly enjoyed her time and the close friendships she developed while living there.  She extends her gratitude to the staff and particularly her caregivers of UAL.  She was supported in her final days at the Chinook Intercare Hospice where she continued to share her quick wit with staff.  The family is truly appreciative of the attention and devotion we have all received at both of these locations.

Though she has left us, Sheila's memory will forever be a cherished part of our lives. As we mourn her passing, let us celebrate the vibrant spirit she brought to our world. Rest in peace, dear Sheila, knowing that your legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire us all. 

A Private Celebration of Sheila’s Life will be held, with guests invited to wear colors representative of her life.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Chinook Hospice, 1261 Glenmore Trail S.W., Calgary AB T2V 4Y8, Telephone: (403) 258-0040. 

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Sheila’s family here.

In living memory of Sheila Brinsmead, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.