September 10, 2021
In Loving Memory ~ It is with great sadness that we inform that Brenda MacDonald passed away on September 10, 2021.
After high school graduation in 1971, Brenda would become the first of her family to receive a university degree, completing her B.Ed at UBC in 1975. Bren had a long and fulfilling career as a teacher, working in Chilliwack, Saskatoon and Kelowna.
She made a lasting impact on the lives of innumerable children who she would encounter frequently as adults, remembering for them many special moments in their early lives.
Brenda loved people and had a rare gift for making those around her feel special, turning strangers into friends by her gentle nature. Curious and empathetic, she would happily listen to your life story, if you cared to tell it. She appreciated rich conversation, literature, art, travel, gardening, puzzles and games. Her love and support for her family and friends was unwavering.
Brenda is predeceased by her father and mother, Lane and Mary Messinger, as well as her aunts and uncles.
She is survived by her husband Philip; daughter Sarah; sisters, Judy (Harringa), Shelly (Hellard), Renee (Maddess), Kim (Santucci) and Gillian Messinger; brother Casey Messinger; sisters- and brothers-in-law; and nieces and nephews, all who loved her and will miss her dearly.
Her more than 2-year long struggle with cancer ended bravely and mercifully. During this time, she received exemplary and compassionate care from dedicated medical staff at the Cancer Clinic, KGH and her family physician, to which we are forever grateful.