In Loving Memory
Brenda Megale
(Jan 30, 1941 – Dec 8, 2008)
"What the caterpillar saw as the end, the butterfly perceived as the beginning..." - Anon
Brenda Megale (nee English/Slavens) passed away peacefully at Fraser Canyon Hospital in Hope after a courageous battle with cancer. She will be remembered by everyone who knew her as an extraordinarily kind, giving person and "Super Nurse" who always saw the good in people and the humour in life.
Born into the Morgan clan in Cumberland, BC, Brenda moved with her family to the Kootenay coal mining community of Michel/Natal where her father Sam English was a union leader and mother Ione worked at the local hospital. Brenda never forgot the close-knit community of Michel/Natal and loved returning to the Elk Valley were she was raised and made so many lasting friendships.
Brenda trained to become a registered nurse at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver. During her 40-year career she worked at Fernie Hospital, Overlander Hospital in Kamloops; and Cottonwoods, May Bennett Home and David Lloyd Jones in Kelowna. After teaching at Okanagan College, she became head nurse in both Ashcroft and at Fraser Canyon Lodge in Hope, BC.
Wherever Brenda went, she strived to make a lasting difference in the lives of patients. She cared deeply about their stories and their dignity. Dressed covertly as "Super Nurse" with her magic wand, she brought healing and laughter to the old folks she served. She lived by her convictions that family and community matter deeply, and in a world where we can live peacefully together, with mutual respect.
Brenda is survived by her loving husband Robert Megale and her devoted children: Kerry Slavens Holt, Glenn Slavens, Kevin Megale, Michelle Bilalakis and Alyssa Megale; and her grandchildren India Ione, Callum, Rowan, Finnegan, Emma, Victoria and Alexander. She is also survived by her sister Mary Taylor and brother Ken English. We will all remember how she turned even the most ordinary days special and made special days magical, and filled the darkest days with light.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Brenda on Thursday, December 18, 2008 at 2 pm at Hope Golf Club. Pastor Bill Plant will officiate. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to BC Cancer Society or Fraser Canyon Hospice Society. A Celebration of Life for Brenda will also be held this Spring in Sparwood.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Nyirenda and the staff at Fraser Canyon Hospital and Hospice for their kindness and care, and the many friends and family who were so generous with their support, inspiration and love.