We Remember

McDANIEL, Melba May (née Field / Fairholm)

August 1, 1936 — March 1, 2026

Melba May McDaniel passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by her loving family.

Born and raised in Armstrong, BC, Melba grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love of farm life. As a young person, she was active in 4H, proudly raising prized steers and building the foundation of who she would become: hardworking, generous, and always willing to roll up her sleeves.

Melba moved to Kelowna, where she married Ernest Fairholm (deceased) and raised five children. Together they built Fairview Par 3 Golf in Okanagan Mission, creating fun recreation for the community. Melba took up golf herself and never looked back; she went on to win the Ladies Club Championship at Kelowna Golf & Country Club, a remarkable 13 times. In 1992, she married Henry McDaniel and they shared a deeply devoted partnership. He treated her like a princess, right down to massaging her feet every night.

It was no secret that Melba had a flair for the finer things. She loved sparkles, crystal, glamour, and gold, but what people remember most is her kindness. She had a gift for noticing when someone needed help and quietly doing something about it. She also loved sunshine, a good cob of corn, winters in Hawaii, and for Melba, nothing beat falling asleep in the easy chair with Henry.

After a full and beautiful life, she follows those who have gone before her: her parents, Louis and Dorothy Field; her brother, Jim Field; and her beloved husband, Henry McDaniel.

Her memory and her spirit will be carried on by her daughter Lynne (Craige), daughter Debbie (Glenn), son Jim, daughter Valerie (Gary), plus one younger daughter; and by her grandchildren: Lisa, Trevor, Jeremy (Bentlyn), Tyler (Chelsea), Jamie (Kim), Kory (Cassandra), Brodie (Leanne), Kelsa (Keith), Cameron (Jen), Bridgit (Chris), and Dustin (Brayln), plus 15 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sisters, Shirley Field and Judy Maida, as well as numerous nieces & nephews and in-laws.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Larry Bobyn, the nurses, care aides, and auxiliary staff at Glenmore Lodge for the compassionate care they provided Melba during her time there.

A private Celebration of Life will be held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Melba’s memory may be made to the Kidney Foundation or the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.

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Kidney Foundation or Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada Link: kidney.ca, www.heartandstroke.ca

 


 


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