We Remember

ABERNETHY, Gail (née Hunt)

November 21, 1941 — March 6, 2025

Gail Abernethy, aged 83, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, leaving behind a life rich in love, service, and adventure. Born on November 21, 1941, in Edmonton, AB, she was the eldest in a rare set of two pairs of twins, setting the stage for a life as unique as it was impactful.

Gail earned a B.Sc. in Nursing from the University of Alberta and dedicated her career to caring for others. She taught nursing in Lethbridge, AB; worked in obstetrics and pediatrics at Toronto’s SickKids Hospital; and contributed to psychiatric nursing education at Montreal General Hospital. Later, as Head Nurse of an adolescent psychiatric ward, she helped establish St. Paul’s Hospital’s psychiatric department, developing programs for eating disorders, addiction, and harm reduction.

Confident and committed to excellence, Gail inspired trust in those around her. Her high standards extended beyond her career to her impeccable sense of style, beautifully organized home, disciplined financial management and extensive volunteerism.

She had a deep love for travel, sailing, fine dining, and interior design. Her adventurous spirit led her to pause her nursing career in her twenties for a European journey. Later, she earned a Diploma in Interior Design from Mount Royal College in Calgary, AB.

Her life took a joyful turn when she met John Abernethy. Introduced by John’s daughter, they bonded over their shared love of adventure and love of work. After marrying, they lived and continued their careers in Western Australia before settling in Peachland, BC, where their home became a collection of treasures from their travels.

In Peachland, Gail embraced her community, contributing her nursing and design expertise to the Wellness Center. She was a proud Rotarian and active member of the United Church. Her legacy includes her exquisite quilting, a testament to her love for her great-grandchildren, and the Aber Library, which she established to foster their love of reading. Gail’s life was one of service, creativity, and adventure, leaving an indelible mark on her family and community.

Gail is survived by her sister Pat and brother-in-law Don Maier of Calgary; her brother Gerald and sister-in-law Debbie Hunt of Edmonton; as well as nieces and nephews: Barbara, Colin, Kim, Kelly, Deana, and Darren. She is also remembered by her stepchildren, Jane, Winston, Barbara, and Diana, and their families, which include Gail’s 13 beloved great-grandchildren. Gail was predeceased by her husband, John; her parents, Audrey and Bill; and her sister, Joanne Malko.

A celebration of Gail’s life will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm, at the 50 Plus Activity Center at 5672 Beach Avenue, Peachland, BC. All are welcome to attend.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff at Hospice House for their care and compassion. If there is a desire to make a memorial donation, please make it to Kelowna Hospice House, 2035 Ethel St, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2Z6.

Condolences, photos, and memories may be sent to the family by visiting her obituary page at www.springfieldfuneralhome.com

Service
Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm

Location
The 50 Plus Activity Center

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Kelowna Hospice House, 2035 Ethel St, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2Z6 Link: hospicehousekelowna.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for ABERNETHY, Gail (née Hunt) is scheduled for Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

The 50 Plus Activity Center

5672 Beach Avenue Peachland, BC

Phone:


Special Requests:

None.


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Condolences

  • Moyra Baxter says:

    Everyone in Gail’s Rotary Family misses her so much. She was a respected member of our team – always willing to help. She leaves big shoes to fill.
    Rotary Club of Peachland

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