CELINE LORETTA O'CONNELL

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CELINE LORETTA O'CONNELL It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Celine O'Connell at the age of 47, at Riverview Health Centre on Tuesday, July 29, 2008, after a courageous battle with cancer. Celine will be sadly missed by her husband of 20 years, Rick, her brother Phil, sister Shelley, Mary Van Aert Mom, sister-in-law Marianne (Ernie); brothers-in-law, Jim and Bill (Avril); nephews, Jason (Lara) and Sean; as well as other nieces, nephews and grandchildren along with her many cherished friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Ed and Josie O'Connell (nee O'Brien) of Winnipeg. Celine was born in Winnipeg, December 30, 1960. She loved music and watching her brother Phil play in bands in clubs around town. She went to Vincent Massey in Fort Garry growing up in Winnipeg and later worked in the print industry, where she met her beloved husband of 20 years, Rick Van Aert. Then came her love for Setzer's Rockabilly! With her love for shopping they made trips to Edmonton Mall (where it all started). Then, countless trips to Mall of America 'til Rick had enough. In 1996 they bought a tent trailer and, became seasonal campers, avid golfers, as well as fishing. In 1999 they bought a fifth wheel, and spent every possible minute with many friends in the campground and on the golf course at Hecla! After the 2006 camping season, Celine was diagnosed with cancer of unknown origin. In her Fighting Irish way, she began her fight to beat cancer, never backing down; never giving up on going to Hecla, doing what she loved. Weakened from her fight, by 2008, she still persisted, going to the lake, enjoying life to the fullest. Never complaining how difficult the fight was. Teaching us all to love life and live it! In accordance with Celine's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, August 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Voyage Funeral Home, 220 Hespeler Ave., Winnipeg. The family gratefully acknowledges the doctors and nurses at St. Boniface Cancer Care ward, HSC CancerCare, and Riverview Health Centre who gave very compassionate and supportive care throughout her illness. A very special thanks to all Hecla Oasis Golf staff for their sympathetic compassion and generosity. Celine gratefully appreciated all the support and caring during her illness. In lieu of flowers those so wishing may contribute in Celine's memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 2B7. 774-7483.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 02, 2008