We Remember
DUNKLEY, Rose Margaret
October 26, 1925 — April 9, 2014
The challenge in writing an obituary is to encapsulate the significance of a life and personality that so immeasurably impacted the lives of so many and to do it in a way that accurately conveys the depth of gratitude and appreciation owed to the subject.
Of course, one must start with the obligatory details: Rose Margaret Dunkley widowed wife of the late Charles S. Dunkley passed away peacefully in Kelowna, BC on April 9th, 2014. She was born in Turner Valley, Alberta on October 26, 1925, and lived the majority of her married life in Calgary, Alberta and her retirement years in Kelowna, BC. She left behind sons Charles Barry Dunkley of Leduc, Alberta, Gordon Merle Dunkley of Victoria BC, daughter Brenda Lorraine Rutherglen of Trail BC and son Roger David Dunkley of Calgary, Alberta. Also left behind were seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and her most loyal companion, Ellie the dog, who remained steadfastly at Rose’s side to the very end and won the hearts of residents and staff at the Village of Mill Creek in Kelowna, BC, where Rose spent the last four years of her life.
That was the easy part. The hard part is to say something in a few short paragraphs that conveys to the reader what made Rose so remarkable and important in the lives of those who knew her. With Rose, this can be done by simply stating five words that describe what were her best and most admirable qualities: courage, resilience, spirit, generosity and graciousness.
Three times Rose faced and defeated Cancer in her elder years and then endured and triumphed over a serious and painful case of Shingles. All the while, she remained cheerful, optimistic and kind to others and never let these serious and painful afflictions defeat or get the best of her. In the end, it was only the fullness of time that took her as it does every other living thing.
Her greatest legacy are the things she taught and inspired in us. She taught us how to believe in ourselves and by example showed us how to face and triumph over life’s challenges with an unbending will and indomitable spirit. But beyond that, she also taught us how to remain gracious, kind and optimistic through whatever trials that come our way. What she has inspired in us is the desire to be greater than we think we can be and to always have courage and hope. For this, dear Mother, we owe you everything and will always cherish and honour your memory. With love and respect, we say good-bye and wish you good journey to whatever lies ahead for you. We will be together with you and our beloved father once again. Until then, we bid you farewell.
The family would like to thank her Physician, Dr. Larry Bobyn and the wonderful staff at the Village at Mill Creek. In particular, we would like to thank the excellent staff of the Idabel Wing who provided our Mother with wonderful care and who were so supportive and kind over the last year and especially during these last difficult weeks. With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation, we thank you.
A Celebration of Rose’s life will be held in the summer of 2014, date to be announced.
The family asks that donations be made to the BC Cancer Society in lieu of flowers and gifts. Cards of Condolence can be sent to PO Box 117, Trail, BC, V1R 4L3
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
Service
Saturday, April 12, 2014 at 1:30 pm
Location
Village at Mill Creek - Education Room
Share with Others:
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please donate to the BC Cancer Society - 399 Royal Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3
Service Information
Service Details
The service for DUNKLEY, Rose Margaret is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2014 at 1:30 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:
Village at Mill Creek - Education Room
1450 Sutherland Avenue Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
Another Celebration of Rose's life will be held in the summer of 2014, date to be announced.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
We are saddened to learn of Rose’s passing, but we remember so many good times with she and Charlie on the Shuswap. Rose was the number one fiddle, according to Charlie, so positive, enthusiastic and energetic in her endeavours and very helpful to us on many occasions. She was a great booster of our community on the Shuswap and will be greatly missed.
Fay and Roger Edmunds