RANKIN-PRUDEN, Phyllis Lynn
June 10, 1948 – Journey to the next world – February 23, 2023
My Mom, Phyllis Pruden, passed away on February 23rd at Bethany Cochrane (LTC) at the age of 74, due complications from her PLS (Primary Lateral sclerosis) and lung cancer. My Dad (David) and I were with her on her last day with us. Holding her to let her know that she was not alone and that we loved her with all our being.
She was a proud Nehiyaw Iskwew from the Beaver Lake Cree Nation, Treaty No.6, with relations far and wide. Ferociously proud of her Indigeneity and dedicating her life to the betterment of our people, with a specific focus on Indigenous children. She did this by her good and loving nature and by believing that there was always hope and a chance to do things better by the agency of love. She did this by working at Friendship Centres, Remand Centers and as a social worker for 20+ years in Calgary. Helping numerous children and families understand what their responsibilities were and are, by teaching them our (Indigenous) histories and answering any and all questions. Also, by attending and assisting in ceremony, and always being a safe person to ask questions. She new that spirituality and the spiritual life that she lived with my Dad, my sister and I, (and with many of you reading) the strength to love.
My Moms’ life was rooted in love. My Mom knew as a residential school survivor, that to survive, that we do not become fully whole again until we are able to give ourselves to each other in love. She always told me without fail, even in the hardest and darkest times that she loved us. There is a good chance that she told you that she loved you, even if you didn’t want to hear it, or understood why she was saying it. It is because she believed it, she loved us.
Her husband, David Rankin and her son, Geoff, daughter Naomi Rankin, son-in-law Tim, and granddaughters, Bella, Melia, Lila Martinez and many other family members will miss her very much. But, we will be sustained by the knowledge that she loved us and we all will continue in that love to ensure her memory lives on by our ability to continue to grow and share our love and respect for one another.
As per my Mom’s wishes, we will be holding a gathering in the spring to celebrate my Mom’s life. You can contact Geoff for further details if you would like to be informed of the dates once set.
In lieu of flowers, we would appreciate if a donation could be made in my Mom’s name to, The ALS Society of Alberta https://www.alsab.ca/donate
With Love,
The Rankin, Pruden, and Martinez families
Ekosi
Cochrane Country Funeral Home – cochrane@piersons.ca
Arrangements entrusted to Emily Champ, Funeral Director
Beautiful tribute to your mom, Geoff. My sincerest condolences to David, you, Naomi and family. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Diane
Phyllis was exactly the person you described in your tribute Geoff! I knew your mom very well as we both worked in the Judicial System in Cochrane for many years. Always giving me a big hug whenever, wherever we met! Was shocked and saddened by her passing but I know this Angel will always be with her families and friends. You are all in my prayers and my deepest condolences. Would like to pay my respect to her when a date is set!
My deepest condolences on the passing of Phyllis. It was an honour to take care of her and get to know her! She was an absolutely amazing woman. I will always cherish my memories with Phyllis! Sending my sincerest prayers to David, Geoff, Naomi and family.
Kristine
Phyllis brought a ray of light and calming smile that always brightened my day. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Condolences,
Dreva
I had the Honour and Privilege of working with Phyluis at the Native Services Office.Yes she was dedicated and loved her work. She was an amazing person. She will be missed by all of us who worked with her. I also had the privilege of David officiating at my grandmother Ruby Fraserfuneral service. May you all find comfort knowing she was loved by us all and know she us at peace. My prayers are with you.
My sincere condolences to you Geoff, your Dad, your sister and of course the lovely grand babies. Phyllis was an amazing lady and I loved very much. She was a teacher, mentor and she quickly became my sister. I have prayed lots for her and will continue to pray for all who loved her.
❤️❤️❤️
I worked with Phyllis at the Native Unit in Calgary for sometime. I loved my sister so much and we shared many good times together as staff, as well as our time with Sister at the sweat! When I left to come back to my home in Piikani. I would like to send all my love to
David, Geoff and Naomi! Hugs and prayers to the grandbabies!
She is definitely our Angel flying high in the sky on her journey home. Please let me know when her feast will be!
My sincerest condolences to your whole family. I had the privilege and honor to be a companion to Phyllis for the past two years of her life at Bethany. I will remember Phyllis with love in my heart always as, yes she did illuminate love! We became friends and shared good times. I loved to her laugh at my silly antics, and when her aid Beverly teased her. My heart is sad for her passing, however glad for knowing Phyllis in our short time together. I only wish I had known Phyllis longer to experience the depth of her love and caring! Thank you Phyllis.
Marianne