KATHLEEN (CATHY) CHABAN (BENNETT) -

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KATHLEEN (CATHY) CHABAN (nee BENNETT) 1934 - 2016 Despite many health issues over the years I am fortunate to have lived to the wondrous age of 81 and still have the mindset to recall and reminisce. My life was fraught with many struggles until the latter years, which finally brought me much peace and happiness. How lucky was I to have traveled extensively as the years wore on and, with my daughters, we found many, many relatives, long, lost and buried in memory only. We traveled to places like Paris and London and Ireland and California (among others and enjoyed numerous cruises) and found dozens of wonderful kinfolk, large families all, incredible souls each one. I have thanked God in my own way and on my own time, many times over for allowing me these fabulous family reunions so late in my life. To all these absolutely wonderful relatives, each one, my love forever in eternity. Having been born in Edmonton, Alberta on May 14, 1934 I had nevertheless called Winnipeg my home since 1961 when a job related transfer found us in the middle of Canada. It was a great move as some years later it spawned the birth of Colleen Shannon who arrived to join our small family, already comprised of eldest daughter, Cheryl-Jean and amazing son Curtiss Wayne. Cheryl was born in Fort Worth, Texas while Curtiss made his appearance in Edmonton, Alberta. Curtiss predeceased me in Winnipeg at the tender age of 31 years, the most overwhelming and burdensome task I have ever endured in my entire life, having had to bury this light of my life. Another son, born in Winnipeg, was called to heaven in infancy. My awesome daughters, Cheryl Chaban (Jim Penziwol) and Colleen Chaban (Dean Lavallee) have been my devoted girls their entire lives, caring for me, looking after me, doting on me. I've been extremely grateful for their love and devotion and presence in my life, right up to my final days. I loved you then. I love you more even now. I will love you forever as I look down on you the rest of your lives, my angels true. Colleen and Dean were more than fortunate when, in February of 2011 the most precious of all creatures graced their lives, a daughter whom they named Grace Krystyn Lavallee. This tiny miracle came into their lives as a newborn and ultimately into my life. I was more than delighted and most thankful to have been able to share in the joy of this beloved little creature who thoroughly captivated my heart from the very beginning. Unfortunately, my time with her is now far too short but, by the grace of God, I pray that I left a positive mark on her wee soul. I will watch over you and guide you forever, dear Gracie. I cannot leave this earth without some heartfelt thanks to a few, starting with Dean Lavallee. Dean and Colleen have been together for well over 30 years but it has been his devotion to me over these many years that often kept me going. He was my rock, make no mistake about it. Dean, I have always been grateful. I can't forget the love and devotion bestowed on me by Tanis Goldman, always there in an emergency. I'll love you always dear Tanis. To Dr. John Rabson, a brilliant cardiologist, who literally saved my life many years ago resulting in my first heart surgery, and he continued his exemplary care even after I returned to live in Winnipeg after 17 years in British Columbia. Since moving back to Winnipeg and struggling to find a family doctor brave enough to take me on with all my health problems, Dr. Gillian Breckman tackled the job with diligence, care, and admirable guts to say the least, and without a doubt during my entire life she remained the best of the best. No doubt I gave her some challenges but she stood the test and went far beyond than what was necessary. To both these admirable doctors, a huge thank you from the bottom of my already damaged heart. Please do not send flowers when you learn of my passing. My soul would be ever so grateful if, instead, donations of any kind, large or small, be made to D'Arcy's ARC (Animal Rescue Centre) at 730 Century Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba (204) 888-2266 or to Manitoba Mutts Rescue at P.O. Box 34040 7 Killarney Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 5T5, (204) 803-8114. Please help the desperate animals who cannot help themselves. I have requested no service and have asked that my ashes be spread over Curtiss' gravesite. To all my family and friends, just remember that laughter is God's sunshine. So, take the time to laugh for it is the music of the soul. Bardal Funeral Home 843 Sherbrook Street, 204-774-7474 Condolences: www.bardal.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 14, 2016