DANA LEE STEWART

Condolences & Memories (50 entries)

• As we continue to work towards a future with no stigma attached to mental illness, you are missed every single day. It still does not feel real. What a beautiful guardian angel we all share! Until next time, sweetheart. Love wins - Posted by: Hailey Kupiak (Family friend) on: May 14, 2016

• I am one of the seniors Dana drove to an appointment in Winnipeg and back home. It's the only time our paths crossed, but I knew after 5 minutes of chatting with her, that she was very special. I hope our paths will meet again one day. I offer my condolences to all of her family. - Posted by: Mary Ann (A recipient of good will) on: Dec 04, 2015

• Wish I could have gotten to know you better. You seem like such a good person. Loved by all! - Posted by: Mike Greeff (Step brother) on: Nov 24, 2015

• Much love to you my little sis. You are magnificent. Love you forever and ever and ever and ever... - Posted by: Soobee (Sister (and Dan)) on: Nov 21, 2015

• Dana, I enjoyed our friendship. The best time was the commutes back to Oak Bank after Masters Swimming in the early mornings. I also enjoyed seeing you as you continued with all kinds of hard work. Hard work of all kinds. The last time I saw you, was at Family Foods, where you working and it was so good to see you. I will look for you, when my time comes.. Hopefully when can pick up our conversation, where we left off. Take Good Care Dana, Mary - Posted by: Mary Kirkwood (Friend) on: Nov 20, 2015

• I know Dana from the early years, when she lived in Beach Grove, a small community in Tsawwassen, B.C. My daughter Teryne babysat for her--Dana was exceptionally generous employer because "looking after children is the most important job in the world". Teryne was in awe of her--not because of the income, but because Dana was unlike everyone else she knew. Teryne spoke so often and highly of Dana, that it was a struggle not to get my nose out of joint! Dana and Teryne never outgrew each other, despite age difference and the thousands of miles between them. They shared a deep connection through the bright days and dark nights. I only know the Dana who shone, and she was brilliant at doing so. Creative, spontaneous, loving, laughing, sharing, offering, hugging.... I never witnessed the flip-side, but recognize that it must have been Hell. I am deeply sorry that she had to struggle so long and hard for the simple joys that many of us take for granted. A light has flickered out; a new star has entered the skies. She will be terribly missed, spoken of often, and always always remembered with much Love and smiles. - Posted by: geralyne russell (friend) on: Nov 20, 2015

• Dana, I had the privilege of knowing you when I worked at Oak Bank Elementary. I want you to know you were like a breath of fresh air. Not a day went by when you were there, did you not stop by just to say hi and give hugs when they were needed. It was an honour to have known you, I am sending you my hugs to heaven. Shawn my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Marilyn Chudzy (Friend) on: Nov 20, 2015

• The very first year our son started playing hockey we were fortunate enough to be on the same team as Dana and Shawn. Both were welcoming and fun to be around. Throughout the years we weren't always on the same team but whenever we were it always a pleasure. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. - Posted by: Tammy and Calvin Charles (fellow hockey parents) on: Nov 19, 2015

• We really enjoyed our visits with Dana out in BC. Her love for her family was evident and our thoughts go out to all of you. - Posted by: Lori Sauer (Cousin) on: Nov 19, 2015

• Dana was a loving, passionate and compassionate person who passed on those qualities to her wonderful children. She also shared them with the students, staff and parents at OakBank Elementary, Springfield Middle School and Springfield Collegiate. All of us who were fortunate to cross her path and be part of her journey have been touched by her spirit. I acknowledge her sweet nature and feel blessed by that spirit. Thank you for making our schools better places through your contributions and partnership. You have left a legacy to our school communities and beyond... - Posted by: Gwen MacFadyen (friend) on: Nov 19, 2015

• Danajm, what an amazing and formative year we spent together travelling through Europe! The year...1989. Our first meeting... Lech Austria. The memories of you and I singing in Portugal, hitching through Spain, dancing in Corfu, flat broke in Greece, laughing till we cried in Turkey. And later helping you organise your gorgeous surprise Wedding to Shawn...these memories will stay with me forever. I'm so pleased it was you who helped me discover who I really was... I Wish I had been there to return the favour. Shawn, Devyn Skye, Keely, Aiden and Max, from across the ocean, my heart and my thoughts are with you today and always. Xxx - Posted by: Michelle Demasi (Friend from Sydney) on: Nov 19, 2015

• Dana .......a lovely person, a loving spirit. - Posted by: Hugh and Dulcie (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dear Dana, You have joined the shining stars in our heaven. When I look up, I will forever remember your beautiful smile, twinkling eyes, and extraordinary heart. For me, you were my student, a caring wife to Shawn, an extraordinary volunteer, a loving parent of four wonderful children that I had the pleasure of teaching. Sweetheart, you did a phenomenal job. It is time to rest. Remembering You and thinking of You, Shawn, Devyn, Keely, Aiden, and Max. Dana, you will forever be missed. Sweet Dreams Darling! - Posted by: Sonia Turko Szaura (teacher, friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana, otherwise known as Mamagoddess in our hearts. You will forever be remembered by us as an amazing woman who put your heart and soul into every relationship, challenge and adventure that crossed your path. We are so thankful to have those great memories of you, may you rest in peace beautiful lady. Shawn, Devyn, Keely, Aidan and Max we are praying for you during these difficult days and to all of Dana's family and friends too. xo. - Posted by: Colin, Suzie, Tyson, Colton and Megan (Cousins) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I have a hollow place for the loss of one of our great clan. I am overjoyed that two of the most wonderful persons I have ever known found each other to share and create a greater radiance in this universe. Despite time and distance, the raucous laughter and antics of both Shawn and Dana's friendship will continue within me forever. - Posted by: Todd Byle (Classmate & Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Our condolences to Shawn and family. Dana was a brilliant, beautiful person. When I first met Dana we instantly connected and remained friends. Dana was our doula, for all three of our babies. We had not seen each other over the last few years but I always think of Dana and how she touched our lives. From blessing ways to birth stories and belly casts, we will not forget you Dana, be free. Love, Kim, Reg, Grace, Faye, Libby - Posted by: Kim wightman (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Shawn, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. By the tributes listed, Dana was a wonderful, loving person, and someone we wished we could have known. - Posted by: Ron Markert () on: Nov 18, 2015

• We were Cousins who saw each other infrequently as children. The times I had the pleasure of being in Dana's company as an adult made me admire what a caring, nurturing and genuinely kind soul she was. She always spoke of her children with such joy and pride. Our hearts are filled with sadness at the loss of such a remarkable woman. We hope and pray that the caring thoughts recalled by all will help her family see how she truly made a large and wonderful footprint in this world. Our thoughts are with you today and always. - Posted by: Lynne Kring (Cousin) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I always looked up to Dana. She captured what it meant to be truly unique. I am so sorry for your loss to her entire family. - Posted by: Cindy (Kasprick) Despins () on: Nov 18, 2015

• I remember you asking me how I was as if you could see inside my soul. I believe you could. And I also see your beautiful soul, gentle and loving. Best wishes to your family and especially beautiful Keeley. Thank you, Dana, for noticing me. You are beautiful. I hope you are at peace. - Posted by: LIZ (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Shawn and family. I know many people have moved on from our days going to school with Dana and there are many that had stayed in touch over the year, but memories of Dana will always be something that will last forever with everyone she has come in contact with. I know that I haven't seen Dana very much since school, but whenever I did she would greet me with a very smiling hello there and how have you been doing. I can't even truly begin to imagine the amount of pain that this has brought over your family Shawn, but I hope that in the end Dana has found peace and is now in a happy place. - Posted by: kevin Hughes (classmate) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I still can't believe it...Dlee was the sparkplug who created that wonderful buzz in any room she entered. Someone who liked to tease and be teased, who laughed easily and often, and would give you the shirt off her back if you needed it. I can totally hear her infectious machine gun giggle as I write this. I will try to remember that when I feel a bit down or mad at the world. It's true, all you really have is today (now) and your health. Thanks Dana for your love and support over the years. Enjoy dancing on clouds with Betty and Velma. - Posted by: Brad Snelling (Cousin) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Forever in my heart as a kindred soul who walked to a different drum. An illness has stolen another one of the good ones. Love you forever and always remembered. Create a little hell in heaven!!! - Posted by: Silvia Lavallee (friend from kids dance days and beyond) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Sincere condolences to everyone. The strength of family and friends will get you all through this. Clearly Dana loved and was loved infinitely. - Posted by: Jason Thompson () on: Nov 18, 2015

• The news of Dana's passing has truly saddened me. Heartfelt sympathy to Shawn, the children, family and friends of Dana. She had a kind and giving heart. She was smart, beautiful and wise. Even though we can no longer touch you, we will keep you in our hearts. - Posted by: Michelle Minken (Desbiens) (High school friend ) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana, You were one of the most unique women I have ever met in my life. My wife Kim and I adored you as soon as we met you. We will never forget you and all that you embodied. Our lives lit up every time we saw you. Your help with two of our births (especially that underwater one) will live with us forever. And your suggestion to us that your family was like a team and that you tell them that every team member has to pull his weight or the whole team suffers is a concept that I remind my children of every so often (when needed). You were one of a kind...so real...so kind... We love you and will remember you forever. - Posted by: Reg Wightman (Freind) on: Nov 18, 2015

• My deepest sympathies to Shawn and his family. Words at this time are inadequate to bring comfort to the sorrow you are feeling and experiencing, but know we are with you in thoughts and prayers at this seemingly impossible time that you are going through. Patrick & Brenda Fabian - Posted by: Patrick Fabian (Business colleague with Shawn, Husband of Dana) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana was one of those people who made a community special. She gave selflessly of her time, whether that be teaching young parents to bond with their children, babysitting kids when Mom or Dad needed a break, or in many different activities which benefited so many people. A vibrant and passionate person. Dana cared about her community and did so much to make Springfield a better place. Much of her work with us centered on the family and how to strengthen it. My condolences to Shawn and everyone else who cared about Dana. That is a large group. - Posted by: Tony Zerucha (former Recreation Director RM of Springfield) on: Nov 18, 2015

• My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family. Dana had a special way of lighting up the room when she was around and will be remembered always. - Posted by: Dena Cox-Karlson (Friend from Lynn Lake) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana, you were, and are still one of the most beautiful soul's I have ever spoken to. Your smile has always lit up even the darkest of rooms. You are forever in my heart. Mental Illness seems to take the most loving persons, and you love, are an example of that. You fought so hard, I remember running into you at the grocery store and dollarama. You told me of your struggles, I told you of mine, we cried, we laughed. A simple two minutes still brightened my day after seeing you. Forever loved. - Posted by: Hailey Zayik (Family Friend ) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I was deeply saddened to hear we lost a beautiful person. I have always remembered Dana from high school - always wanting to put a smile on people's faces; full of life and making time for everyone. Dana will be sadly missed. My heartfelt condolences to Dana's family at this time. RIP Dana. - Posted by: Michelle (Eng) Munson (Classmate) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Your light will flicker in every heart that knew you...shining bright above now, a star...an angel you are. Be at peace Dana, your shining spirit living on through all the lives you've touched...the family you have raised. - Posted by: Maryn (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• This news leaves me gutted and wishing I was closer so that I could join you to celebrate Dana's life. It is clear to me that you all have maintained a great community in Oakbank and that Dana was a significant part of it. I can't imagine the pain you are feeling. Shawn, take comfort in the support you have around you; for yourself, for your family. - Posted by: Dale Sedo (Classmate) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I am sadden to hear the loss of Dana, remember her well from high school, full of life and such a beautiful person ,no words can come to mind as how her family feels the loss of her right now ,my condolences got out to Shawn and his family at this time off need and take comfort that Dana is at piece and will always be looking over you guys as she has earned her wings . RIP Dana Angie Lyons (class mate) - Posted by: Angie (friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I am very sorry to hear of the passing of a wonderful and dear person. My heart goes out to her husband Shawn and her beautiful children, close family and friends, as I know she had many. Dana could always make you feel special even if you were talking about nothing of importance, she had that smile that made you smile back, even if things weren't going your way. I remember in high school doing some note passing back and forth and she used to make me giggle out loud or tear up just with a few words from her. She was always encouraging me and making me believe that I could do anything my heart wanted. Dana will always be that special person and she will never be forgotten. xo - Posted by: Alana Miller (Friend ) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana, I wanted to thank you. You have always held a special place in my heart. When you brought me into your Vancouver home I was like a lost cub. You were so kind and looked after me until I could make my own way. Later, I remember the times so vividly…in the BBY house that was a true home away from home for me. I remember the day you gave birth to Devyn Skye. Sometime after I wrote a song for her. For you and for Shawn. I don’t think I ever sang it for you which was only because one day I thought I’d have it put to music..maybe some guitar…maybe a piano. I thought I’d have all the time in the world. I wanted it to be perfect…just like you. I know you’ll find the perfect music for it… Like so many other people you’ve touched ..I’m going miss you. xo Spoke to your Mom & Dad, it seems like just the other day They said they were now proud parents of a beautiful 8lb ba’aby I picked up a stuffed animal that I thought would do just fine I went off to meet you Devyn Skye Walked into the bedroom where you were cuddled up fast asleep Thought of all the faces and places you still had yet to meet Tucked your toes back into your blanket and quietly said, goodnight I was so please to meet you Devyn Skye Devyn Skye you’re the girl who came into this world with a sparkle in your eye Though it took a while I know that first little smile, well it made your mother cry As long as you remember that forever and ever you’ll be a friend of mine It is so good to know you Devyn Skye When you grow up I know you’re going to make your parents proud Whether you’re a doctor or a dancer you’ll not just be a face in the crowd Whatever happens I want you to know you’ll be a friend of mine I was so glad to meet you, I’m so happy to know you, that I wrote this song for you, Devyn Skye Shawn, Devyn, Keely, Aiden, Max… All my love - Posted by: Darren Rogalski (friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I am so saddened to hear of Dana's struggles with mental health over the past few years, and of her passing. My heart goes out to her family and to all who loved her. She was a dynamic, caring and giving woman, and she made a real difference in the lives of those who knew her. I have a visceral reaction when I think of Dana....the same way I felt whenever I was with her. A feeling of warmth, of love, of quiet compassion and tenderness....you could feel these things surrounding you when you were near her. Rest in Peace, Beautiful Dana. - Posted by: Cindy Rogers (was Nykorak) (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• My deepest sympathy to Shawn and their children and to everyone whose lives she touched and left an impact on. In school I always remember her smiling and laughing down the halls surrounded by her close friends. She will always live in your hearts and memories! RIP Dana you will be missed by many. - Posted by: Rosanne (Friend and classmate) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana was the true picture of family! She always made an effort to keep in touch with all of us. May your precious memories of this beautiful person help comfort you! - Posted by: Joy White (Cousin) on: Nov 18, 2015

• To My cousin Shawn and his Family-Our sincere condolences. My Family and I are thinking of you everyday and hoping you all are finding comfort and strength in each other through this incredibly difficult time.I am so sorry for your great loss. xoooo - Posted by: Marge Brook () on: Nov 18, 2015

• Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Shawn kids and the entire family. In the times we got to spend with her, Shawn and kids we, we saw a mothers love and devotion . A beautiful smile and such a welcoming helpful spirit. Sending our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Desiree and Shawn Gillespie (friends) on: Nov 18, 2015

• We had the HONOR of knowing Dana, both as a friend and as a working partner. What a terrific gal! Beautiful smile, energetic, always willing to "jump in and help", not matter what the situation. Our heart aches for each of her family- Shawn and the kids, her dear sisters and her wonderful Dad. We will treasure our memories of Dana forever. Keeping you all in our prayers and sending our love. - Posted by: Larry & Alice Anderson (Friends) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana, you were a wonderful, kind, loving, fun woman who I had the pleasure of knowing. I spent so much time at your house with Devyn and we always had a good time. Whether it would be making a mess in the kitchen baking cookies, or laughing really loud in the bunk beds, or watching movie quite loudly in the movie room you were always there with a smile and lots of love to share. Rest in paradise Dana, you raised your children to be fighters and lovers . Sending my love to my second family in their time of need xoxox - Posted by: Taylor (Friend ) on: Nov 18, 2015

• I am saddened deeply from this. Dana was a beautiful soul who touched so many hearts including my daughter Taylor. For years my youngest spent time with the family and till this day considered Dana her second mother. Thank you Dana for your countless hours of love you showed my daughter and being part of her life growing up. Believe me you made a difference . My deepest sympathy goes out to Dana's family at this time. God Bless - Posted by: Ron (Malkowich) on: Nov 18, 2015

• We just want to convey how sorry we are for your loss. We got to know Dana a little bit when she was staying with her dad. What a gracious and helpful person she was, and fun. - Posted by: Leo & Jean Bradshaw (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2015

• It was such a pleasure to have Dana jump right in and participate in 'Petrolia Life' during her visit last Spring. She helped the IODE ladies make butter tarts and participated in World Day of Prayer when called upon by Barb. Great lady! Pat Traichevich - Posted by: Pat Traichevich (friend - Barb and Denys) on: Nov 18, 2015

• My deepest sympathies to Shawn and the children on the passing of Dana. This is such a huge loss to everyone who knew and loved her. What I remember was how smart and althetic she was in high school. She was an inspiration to all of us who voted for her as our Valedictorian. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. - Posted by: Darlene (Brown) Typa (Friend and classmate) on: Nov 18, 2015

• Dana always had an interest in the bigger questions of life, even in our days in high school. Her sense of spirituality and fair play drove every interaction she had with the external world. That sense of graciousness is the thing that makes me smile every time I hear her name. It will not fade now and her legacy lives large in the family she and Shawn nurtured. - Posted by: Robynne Anderson (friend) on: Nov 17, 2015

• We have all lost a bright light. Heartfelt condolences to the family and the community who loved Dana so much. - Posted by: Sally Boulding (Friend) on: Nov 17, 2015

• May God look over you and comfort you. My heart goes out to you and your families. Rest in Peace Dana - Posted by: Jim Stewart (Uncle) on: Nov 17, 2015