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BRENDA LYNN ZAPORZAN (MCFARLANE)  Obituary pic BRENDA LYNN ZAPORZAN (MCFARLANE)  Obituary pic

BRENDA LYNN ZAPORZAN (MCFARLANE)

Date of Passing: Nov 14, 2017

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BRENDA LYNN ZAPORZAN (nee MCFARLANE) It is with profound sadness that the Zaporzan family announces the sudden passing of Brenda Lynn Zaporzan, after a brief illness, on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at the age of 63. Brenda is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Darcy, son Alex, daughter Olivia, sisters Donna (Dave) and Cheryl (Rick), nephews Doug (Kim), Chris (Karri), and nieces Danielle and Kristin. Brenda started her career in the financial services industry with Richardson Greenshields in 1979. She quickly rose through the ranks becoming one of the most successful female investment advisors in the country. She retired from Merrill Lynch in 1989 to start a second career, her most cherished pursuit, raising her family. Brenda devoted 100% of her time to this, the noblest of endeavours, as Alex and Olivia grew up. She became actively involved at both St. John's Ravenscourt and Balmoral Hall Schools; her love for her children knew no bounds. She became endeared for her commitment and let's-get-it-done attitude in each of those communities, where she was widely respected. Brenda enjoyed travelling. For each of the last 20 years, she eagerly anticipated attending the RBC Dominion Securities Chairman's Council trip at destinations around the world with Darcy. Brenda was a Grand Dame, and a new wardrobe was de rigour for each trip, much to Darcy's chagrin. She was revered by all. Her many trips with girlfriends and sisters to the Turks and Caicos became legendary. Brenda was a consummate hostess and entertainer. Her dinner parties, especially at her island on Lake of the Woods were the highlights of each summer. Invariably they turned into teen dance party, with Brenda in the lead. She handled a boat better than most men. Her trademark laugh was known to all. Brenda was known for her inherent sense of taste which was evident through all cultural forms: theatre, film, fashion, food. This talent combined with her natural sense of grace and style, made for a powerful combination. Her ability to connect with any and every one whom she met was a gift. Brenda was an authentic person, a realist. Her decisions, professional or personal, were right because of her wisdom, her ability to empathize, and her non-judgemental way. She was not afraid to be vocal about her opinions and thoughts but always in a refined manner. Brenda's friends were legion, with Alex and Olivia topping the list. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg on Monday, November 20 at 1:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. Theatre embodied all of Brenda's precious qualities. In honour of Brenda's memory, donations can be made to The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre Endowment Fund, c/o 174 Market Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0P8 or contact mjoyal@royalmtc.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 17, 2017

Condolences & Memories (24 entries)

  • My deepest condolences to Darcy and the family. I just heard this terrible news yesterday June 4, 2018. I remember a very nice conversation I had with Brenda, as she was loading her boat and I was loading mine. We talked about how much we love the lake and how excited we are, like children, each time we come out. So sorry for your loss. Ted Hawley - Posted by: Ted Hawley (Lake enthusiast and dock neighbour) on: Jun 05, 2018

  • Being so far away in Florida, I only heard this news a few weeks ago from Bruce and Shelley Jack. Oh, I am so sorry for your loss, Darcy. Brenda was vibrant, full of energy and as the wonderful tribute said, an unbelievable hostess. She made me feel so welcome at RBC functions even though I was the 'new kid on the block'. Please accept my prayers and condolences....what a loss of life too very early. - Posted by: Leslie Joyal (former co-worker of Darcy) on: May 08, 2018

  • To Darcy and Zaporzan Families, Much Compassion over the loss of Brenda. Sincerely,Vida Balciunas ( Vancouver,B.C. ) - Posted by: Vida Balciunas (Friend) on: Nov 28, 2017

  • Darcy, Alex and Olivia.. there are no words to express the sadness....my heart aches for you and your family...jan morden - Posted by: jan morden () on: Nov 22, 2017

  • Our sympathy & condolences go out to Brenda's family. I knew Brenda on a social level & always admired her for her class & style. Had a great conversation with her the middle of October & then realized she was so much more than her graceful appearance. Rest in Peace, Brenda you were a wonderful person. - Posted by: Gwen Steiman () on: Nov 21, 2017

  • My condolences to Darcy, Alex, Olivia, Donna and Cheryl and all who loved Brenda. She was an amazing women who touched everyone she met. I spent a lot of time in their home when we were young and have fond memories of Brenda. Sending love, hugs and prayers of comfort. Rest in peace Brenda, you lived an amazing life and the love and laughter you gave to all will live in their heart forever.❤️ - Posted by: Gaye MacDonald (Cousin) on: Nov 20, 2017

  • Darcy, I am so sorry for your loss of Brenda. Our deepest sympathies to you and your children during this difficult time. Cherish each moment and memory. Curtis - Posted by: Curtis Bell (friend) on: Nov 20, 2017

  • Our deepest condolences to Donna and the family. We will keep you in our prayers. - Posted by: Sherry and Carl Orcutt (Friends) on: Nov 19, 2017

  • Our sincerest condolences and sympathy to Darcy, Alex & Olivia. We knew Brenda only through a mutual friend but our deepest sorrow and prayers go to you all. To Heather, Karen, Nandin & Tianna, the "work family" our thoughts and prayers are with you all as well. Deney & Andy Wojtowicz - Posted by: Deney Wojtowicz (acquantaince) on: Nov 19, 2017

  • A beautiful tribute to a beautiful person. We have many fond memories of Brenda. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Wishing you comfort in knowing how loved Brenda is. Doug, Verna and Erin. - Posted by: Verna Danylchuk () on: Nov 18, 2017

  • Dear Darcy and family, how shocked and saddened I was to hear of your dear Brenda’s passing. I can still remember meeting Brenda for the first time when she came to pick up Margaret at Holy Family to take her for dinner at your house. She looked smashing and when I asked her what was for dinner she told me “ my special lemon meringue pie”. My deepest sympathy to all of you. Mary Lou Chubaty - Posted by: Mary Lou Chubaty (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2017

  • Darcy, Mavis and I were very sorry to learn of Brenda's passing, and at such a young age. She was a fine lady. Our sincerest sympathies to you and your family. Will Tishinski - Posted by: Will Tishinski (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2017

  • So very sorry to read about your mom Liv. We have such great memories of you and Jen especially your trip out to Oakbank for Oreo cookies on an icy night. Love and deepest sympathy from Don and Lorraine Hughes - Posted by: Don and Lorraine Hughes (Friends of Liv through Jennifer Ainley) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Darcy, Alex & Olivia, what a beautiful tribute to someone so special. I loved working with Brenda at SJR events and we were always both talking about our Alexes! This is such a shocking and heartbreaking loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Debbie Schween (Friend) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Hearing the news of Brenda passing was both unexpected and sorrowful. Darcy, Alex, Olivia and Donna, I am at a loss to provide words to comfort you at this time. Brenda was a wonderful person full of spark and passion. She treated people so well, such a positive loving woman. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Rick Fritschy (Friend) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • It is with utmost regret that we hear of Brenda’s passing. Our heart goes out to you Darcy and your family. You are in our thoughts and we wish you the strength required to overcome this great loss. Peter and Donna Adams, Kenora - Posted by: Donna Adams (Friend) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Brenda and I were cousins and pals as children. She was my hero and is now a sweet memory.'Save some apples for me, Brenda.' - Posted by: Sandy Wainwright McGill (Cousin) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Many wonderful memories of trips to Auntie Flo & Uncle Tom's and seeing a beautiful young Brenda. I was so envious of her gorgeous, then-long hair. I was the lucky gal who caught the bouquet at their wedding. Rest in peace beautiful cousin...you will be missed. You led a wonderful life - be proud of your accomplishments. - Posted by: Lori Sharkey (Nee Bobby) (Cousin ) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Dear Darcy, My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I worked with you both at Merrill Lynch way back when. Brenda was always so happy, bubbly, positive! I cannot imagine the loss of someone so young & beautiful in spirit. My thoughts & prayers are with you. - Posted by: Jeannette Franks (Gautron) (former colleague) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Offering our deepest condolences and sympathies to the entire Zaporzan family at this time. Much Love, Andie + Rachel Solomon - Posted by: Rachel Solomon (Classmate + Friend of Liv) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Brenda was my cousin and this is the perfect passage for her! I will forever remember her as "1" of the sisters, who always made an appearance at all family functions...happy and sad occasion's! Forever she will be lovingly remembered! We will miss you but..at least you are with "most " of the family again. .if there is to be comfort in this great loss! Thanks Brenda for being you...may you rest peacefully! We love you! - Posted by: Denise Sydor () on: Nov 17, 2017

  • What a beautiful tribute to a unique and wonderful person. It’s unthinkable that someone so full of life could leave us so quickly, but Brenda had a special spark that will never be extinguished. She was a total original in every way – smart, courageous and genuine. I will so miss her quick mind, big heart and irrepressible sense of fun. Somewhere in Heaven there is an old Rolling Stones tune on the jukebox, and Brenda is pulling everyone onto the dance floor… - Posted by: Gail Granger (Friend) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • Brenda was the social convenor of River Pointe when we arrived in 1997. Any event she hosted was done in style with fun being the key ingredient. Darcy, we are so sorry to hear about your loss and wish you Alex and Olivia nothing but the most pleasant memories of Brenda. Her accomplishments and her caring set the bar very high for those of us who follow. Rob and Ana Fridfinnson - Posted by: Robert and Ana Fridfinnson (Old neighbour) on: Nov 17, 2017

  • I did not know Brenda, but this wonderful tribute makes me wish I had. Please accept condolences from Ottawa. - Posted by: Rick Zaporzan () on: Nov 17, 2017

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