BRENDA ELLA

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

BRENDA ELLA McRITCHIE Brenda Ella McRitchie died peacefully in her sleep, at home in Fernie, B.C., December 22, 2001, after a long battle with cancer. Brendas husband, David, and her children were with her during her last days, along with close friends, including Patricia Ferguson. Brenda was predeceased by father Charles and mother Ella; and is survived by husband David; son Ryder and wife Connie and granddaughters, Kyra and Isabel; daughter Lara; son Devin; sister Elizabeth, and Davids mother Marjorie. Born in Liverpool, November 10, 1941 Brenda spent her early years in various parts of England. Settling in Newcastle Upon Tyne, she was educated at West Jesmond Primary School and entered the Central High School on a scholarship. She completed her education at Nevilles Cross Teachers Training College and spent two years teaching in Newcastle. Brenda and David were married September 1965 and in December immigrated to Winnipeg, where she worked with the Society for handicapped children until their first son was born in 1968. In 1974 Brenda and David moved to an acreage in St. Norbert. In 1984 she returned to the frontlines, spending the next 13 years in the Child Abuse Program and Foster Parenting. For relaxation, she and Pat, spent many hours and weekends supporting their sons horseriding activities. In 1996 a major pipeline exploded, adjacent to their Winnipeg property, driving Brenda and David from their home. The decision was made to retire and move to Fernie B.C., where Brenda made many friends, became a grandmother, took on a major gardening/landscaping enterprise, and became involved in badminton and other activities. In 1999, medical examinations, revealed the presence of a malignant tumour. The next two years were spent undergoing chemo and taking medications in an unsuccessful attempt to halt the spread of the disease. Brenda will be remembered for her gifts as chef and gardener, great love of family, vision and creativity, and warm, intelligent, sensitive consideration of others.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 29, 2001