IREDALE, Donna Leah

March 01, 1958 – July 10, 2019

Donna Leah Iredale (nee Hanna), Mother of three and wife to Ken Iredale, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 61.

Donna was born on March 1, 1958 in Calgary Alberta, to Dave and Doreen Hanna. She attended high school at Central Memorial in Calgary and graduated from SAIT with a diploma in Architectural & Civil Eng Tech with honorable mention. 

Throughout her childhood Donna enjoyed time with her family, travelling with her grandparents out into the Okanagan Valley, spending time with her older sister Debbie, and with her father doing anything outdoors. Growing up Donna loved animals; she always had multiple horses, dogs, cats, birds, and fish and enjoyed playing guitar and dancing.

As an adult Donna’s childhood passions always remained. She loved music, painting, travelling the world and she could often be found gardening and surrounded herself with beautiful flowers and plants. She was also an avid photographer and shared her wonderful pictures with many. She always had a caring and positive attitude, wore a smile and never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. She was always the giver.

During her most recent work she discovered the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), an organization that helps raise orphan elephants in Kenya and other much needed conservation work across the country. She was so thrilled to adopt one of these orphans named Mbegu, she soon started adopting more as gifts that she gave to her entire family every Christmas. She always spoke of visiting the orphaned animals and lending a hand where she could. 

Donna is survived by her husband Ken Iredale; her three children Matthew (Jennifer), Kyle (Burcu) and Kristin Bird (Hawk);  her parents Dave and Doreen Hanna; her sister Debbie (Bob) Bray; her nieces and Nephew, Emily, Tasha and Mackenzie Bray; her sister-in-law Wendy Iredale; and her stepchildren Okie and Skylar Iredale.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Donna can be made in her name to the DSWT at www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org. She would love this.

Arrangements entrusted to Cochrane Country Funeral Home, Florence (Flo) Simpson, Funeral Director. Ph: 403-932-1039.

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  1. On July 19, 2019 at 1:33 pm Mary-Lynn Wardle Said:

    Ken and family, I am so sorry that your beloved Donna has passed. Every time I saw Donna she seemed to be in a sparkling mood. She was gentle and kind. I enjoyed riding with you both, and was warmed by your tenderness towards each other. Sending you love. ML

  2. On July 20, 2019 at 12:42 pm Sharon Frederick Said:

    Thinking of all of Donna’s family at this very sad time. This a beautiful picture of a very beautiful lady, this is how I will remember Donna. May your happy memories and the love & support of family & friends help you cope with your sorrow. Sincerest sympathy to everyone!!

  3. On July 25, 2019 at 7:34 am Cheryl Hardy Said:

    So sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. She was an amazing lady. The wonderful memories you have will help you get through this difficult time. Feel free to reach out to me if you need anything.

  4. On July 25, 2019 at 2:14 pm Patrick Brennan Said:

    Ken and family;

    I loved how passionate Donna was. She had an ability to challenge, and reward in the same breath. There is a place in soul’s of the living that thrives when touched by that ability. That is how I will remember Donna.

  5. On July 25, 2019 at 2:59 pm Karen Orser Said:

    Rob and I were saddened to hear of Donna’s passing. Our condolences to all of the Family.

  6. On July 25, 2019 at 6:49 pm Karen Zinter Said:

    To Ken and family.

    So sad to hear news of your “Donna’s” passing.

    Take good care and remember all your friends are there to help in. “ you and your and family’s “ needs as you were always there for others,

    God bless.

  7. On July 26, 2019 at 5:42 am Norma Jean vidler Said:

    So sorry to hear of the sudden passing of Donna….she was a lovely lady!

    All the best Ken!

  8. On July 26, 2019 at 2:03 pm Anne Marie Patmore Said:

    I only got to know Donna just over a year or so ago through our zumba class at Spray Lakes but she was a lovely warm lady whose conversation I enjoyed very much. So tragic to lose such a vibrant woman so young. She will be missed by all of us.
    My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to her family.

  9. On July 26, 2019 at 8:36 pm Robert John Bamlett Said:

    So very sorry to hear of this tragic loss Ken. Deepest sympathy Ken.

  10. On July 30, 2019 at 11:09 am Anthony Mattie Said:

    Donna was a 2nd mom to me. I loved to visit her house and always enjoyed when I would get to spend time with her. I have so many wonderful memories of her throughout my youth. I am deeply saddened to have heard about the loss of such an amazing and beautiful person. She will continue to live on in our memories. My heart is with all of those who are also mourning the sudden loss of such a wonderful friend/parner/mother.

  11. On August 1, 2019 at 12:11 pm Cindy Dotzler Said:

    My thoughts and prayers go out to you Ken.Always remember how loved you are and stay close to those ones. We are all here for you, to give you comfort and support.

  12. On August 27, 2019 at 9:12 am Henk Kroon Said:

    Dear Ken. I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. I remember Donna as a very kind, warm and passionate lady. I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family.

  13. On August 31, 2019 at 12:18 am Hugo & Marlene Pittoors Said:

    Our hearts go out to you Ken at the loss of your dearest love and closest friend.
    Donna was an amazing lady and loved by everyone. May you be comforted by knowing that you will be together again.
    This life is just a small part of the journey.
    Love from Hugo and Marlene

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