Obituary of Angie Lynn McGillivray (formerly Turk)

June 26, 1972 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
June 20, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

Angie is survived by her daughter Nevaya, and Nevaya’s father Duane, parents Nancy and Jack, sister Marcie (Jay), and brother Blaine (Jasmine).  "Auntie Goma”, is also survived by her five nieces Zoë, Avery, Molly, Sedona, and Riley.

"Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery, None but ourselves can free our minds. Have no fear for atomic energy, 'Cause none of them can stop the time."

Angie Lynn McGillivray, a firecracker soul whose energy touched the lives of many, has left an indelible mark on our hearts. Today, on her birthday, we gather to celebrate her life and honor the extraordinary woman she was, and the joy she brought to our lives.

Angie's dedication to education was boundless. She embraced the power of knowledge and shared her love for learning with others. As an educator, she ignited curiosity, fostered creativity, and made a profound impact on the young minds she nurtured. Her passion for teaching and coaching was a testament to her belief in the transformative power of education, creativity and "disciplined fun" with somehow a touch of entrepreneur spirit.  As a teacher, nothing made Angie happier than hearing "Nevaya is so smart"!

“As they would mingle with the good people we meet”

Since childhood, Angie possessed a unique gift for turning ordinary moments into zany experiences. Her imaginative spirit allowed her to create funny games out of almost anything.  Many of her students and friends would describe her personality as one that demanded respect. She possessed a remarkable gift for making great first impressions and forging instant connections.  She had a ton of friends.  

Angie took immense pride in her educational accomplishments. Her dedication and hard work led her to earn a Bachelor of Education, a Bachelor of Music, a Master of Education, and many other certifications for her profession. These achievements were a testament to her intellectual prowess, and unwavering commitment to personal growth that she continued even later in life when most people stop.

Angie's passion for music and nurturing young talents led her to serve as the esteemed Director of the Calgary Children's Choir and Mount Royal Children's Choir. Through her guidance, she nurtured young voices - often one on one, instilling in them the love for harmonies, melodies, and the power of music to unite hearts. As a teenager she kicked some butt at the Calgary Kiwanis Music Festivals and brought home some hardware for many years in a row as a solo vocalist in many languages.

"In this great future, you can't forget your past"

Angie had a deep appreciation for family heritage, and cherished the stories and traditions passed down through generations. Her commitment to reconnecting with old friends and celebrating family history brought joy and a sense of belonging to her life.  Her love and devotion for Nevaya will no doubt go down in history as the best.  

Angie embraced life fully and fearlessly. Her free-spirited nature, and "bad-ass" attitude added an extra sparkle to her vibrant personality.  She even had her motorbike license. Angie was an excellent skier (and of course ski instructor too), loved her time as a child and adult at Panorama, but mostly loved her daughter skiing at Nakiska.  In fact, mostly just loved her daughter doing anything, as seen by the number of activities and hobbies Nevaya participates in. 

Angie was a world traveler and loved the five-star experience but could also hang and volunteer with the families in South Africa, students in Japan, France, and England to name a few. Her family won't forget her laughter on the elephant ride in Thailand, or the great times in Scottsdale and Panorama as a child.

 “My feet is my only carriage”

In the recent face of health challenges, Angie displayed unwavering resilience. Over the past couple of years, she faced ups and downs, finding strength with the support of her friends, and Nevaya during hospital stints and doctor visits. In the last months, her remarkable progress brought hope and optimism. Her physical and mental well-being were on an upward trajectory, and she eagerly contemplated her career path and fun activities for Nevaya, envisioning a bright future.

Despite the promise of a brighter tomorrow, tragedy struck when Angie's life was unexpectedly claimed by an aggressive form of pneumonia at the young age of 50. Her passing left us devastated, as we had witnessed her remarkable resilience and vitality in the final chapter of her life. The memory of her radiant presence and the strength she exuded will forever remain in our hearts.

“So dry your tears, I say”

All quotes are lyrics by Bob Marley, Angie loved Reggae.

Friends and family are invited to join us as we celebrate and memorialize Angie’s life and accomplishments, on what would have been her 51st birthday. Her memory will be honoured at The Ranchmen’s Club (710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB) on Monday, June 26, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Angie Lynn McGillivray, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.