Obituary of Millicent Chapella

December 20, 1928 – Wallasey, England

May 29, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Millicent Joan Chapella passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024, in Calgary, AB.

Joan was born on December 20, 1928, in Wallasey, England, to Robert and Millicent Sheen.

Joan is survived by her sister Elsie Carter, nephews, Paul (Sarah) Carter and Robert (Heather) Carter; and niece Karen (Sean) Cryan. She was also blessed with two great-nieces, six great-nephews, three great-great nieces, and four great-great nephews.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Millicent Sheen; her former husband Tom Chapella, and her son David Chapella.

Joan attended Somerville Primary and Senior Schools in Wallasey, England. She enrolled at Victoria Central Hospital in Wallasey and received a State Registered Nurse certificate. Joan’s career in nursing led her to various specialties such as midwifery, tuberculosis care, operating room nursing, and later private practice for an ear, nose, and throat specialist, Dr. Greg Baker.

Joan’s passion for helping people overflowed into a lifetime of volunteerism with different community organizations. These included the British Junior Red Cross, White Hatters for twenty-two years, the Canadian Red Cross for nineteen years, Renfrew United Church, and the Arlington Place Condo Board. Joan was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Edith Cavell Number 25.

Joan loved show jumping and spent much time at Spruce Meadows. She also enjoyed ice dancing and was able to attend the 1988 Olympics in Calgary. Joan was loved and cherished for her wit, kindness, and resilience.

A Celebration of Joan’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

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

In living memory of Joan Chapella, 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.