June 22, 1961 ~ June 15, 2015
With deep sorrow her family announces the passing of Donna Kellene (Kelli) Reynolds at Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta. She fought a courageous battle against cancer with dignity and grace. Her determination to maintain a positive spirit and appreciate each day was an inspiration.
Kelli was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Comox, the only child of Marvin (deceased 2007) and Donna Watson. She lived in the Comox Valley until her 1979 graduation from G.P. Vanier. After moving to Pitt Meadows and Coquitlam she qualified and was employed in Child Care programs. Following her marriage to Les Reynolds (1981) Kelli moved to Edmonton and became the proud, devoted mother of two sons, Michael (Crystal) and Mathew (Erin).
Kelli worked part-time as a medical receptionist which allowed her to volunteer and support the various activities that her boys undertook. She was never too busy to be available: no request was too large or too small.
Kelli truly loved being a Mom and frequently brought her boys to the family home at Gartley Beach. There they could pursue the activities she had enjoyed as a child and there she could maintain contact with lifelong friends. Hawaii was a favourite travel destination and Kelli especially enjoyed a 2011 trip to Europe with her sons.
Kelli had a rare and beautiful ability to reach out and create connections. She was blessed with caring, supportive friends and extended family. Her chosen “sister” Susan Taylor, and neighbour, Pat Dickinson, assisted family to enable Kelli to remain at home, with the services of the Cross Cancer Institute and Alberta Acute Home Care. Close friends, Elaine Allan, Shelley Longland, Candace MacDonald and Kelli’s cousin, Patrick Lawley, earned our deep appreciation.
A Gathering for Remembrance to celebrate Kelli’s life will be held at the Westerly Hotel, Courtenay Room, on July 11th at 1:30P.M.