DONNA LYNNE RAFLANT

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DONNA LYNNE RAFLANT It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Donna Lynne Raflant. Donna is predeceased by her husband Ed Raflant, her sister Kathy Pilgrim, and her parents, Fred and Lilian Pilgrim. She is survived by her sons, Brad (Tanya) and Dan (Sheryle), grandchildren, Liam, Laura, Hanna and Ellen, and her brothers, Ray (Hope) Pilgrim and Tom (Arlene) Pilgrim. Donna was born in Winnipeg on May 17, 1942, growing up on Goulding St. until the family moved to Brandon in 1953. Mom finished high school in Brandon then trained to become a Laboratory and X-ray Technologist, graduating in 1962. In 1963, she married Brian Marshall and they started a family. In 1973, Donna and her boys moved to Stonewall and she took a position at the Dr. Evelyn Memorial Hospital where she eventually became the lead lab and x-ray technologist. Donna and Ed met while they were both working at the hospital and married in 1977. They enjoyed their time together, camping and fishing with friends and family. Over the years, they continued to build their dream home south of Stonewall. After seeing both her boys off to university, she and Ed moved in to their new house in 1986. Donna was diagnosed with leukemia in 1991. She fought bravely and conquered the cancer with a combination of chemo, radiation and a bone marrow transplant. However, the treatment left her suppressed immune system vulnerable and she soon contracted a brain virus that severely affected her mobility and ability to communicate. The next 25 years became a testament to her courage and determination. She worked hard to regain her speech and her ability to walk, driven by the desire to see her family grow and flourish. She lived to see her sons marry wonderful women and she was able to develop a special bond with her four grandchildren. Over the past few years, Donna's health began to deteriorate again. She faced these mounting hardships with great dignity and grace. Our family has many people to thank for their support during Donna's 26-year journey. She was supported by an amazing community of friends, family, and health care providers. For their love, compassion, and dedication to Mom's well-being, our family is truly grateful. In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to the Rosewood Lodge Recreation Department. Donations can be addressed to: Rosewood Lodge, 513 1st Ave. North, Stonewall, Manitoba, R0C 2Z0. Service of Remembrance will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Ascension (Anglican). Rev James Bardsley will officiate. Ken Loehmer Funeral Services, 204-886-0404

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 20, 2017