We Remember

McNAMARA, Beverly Anne

November 29, 1946 — October 11, 2024

Bev McNamara passed away on October 11, 2024, with her daughters by her side. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 54 years, Joe, and her family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited. Bev is survived by her daughters, Aileen (Mike) Pearce, Bridget (Steve) Smit, Katy (Henrik) Drago, and Meghan (Nathan) McNamara; her cherished grandchildren, Breanna Payne, Thomas Payne, Brayden Smit, Ethan Smit, Emma Drago, Austin McCully, and Brinley McCully; and her two sisters, Sandra Bailey and Barbara Curtis-Leskewitch. She was also predeceased by her daughter Mary McNamara and grandson Liam Payne.

Born in Vancouver, BC, Bev exhibited a passion for nursing from a young age. After moving to Kelowna in 1961, she graduated from Kelowna Secondary School and pursued her practical nursing education at Okanagan University College (OUC). Following her training, she returned to the Lower Mainland to work, saving for her dream of a hitchhiking adventure across Europe. In 1967, Bev’s journey took her to Terrace, BC, where she met Joseph Thomas McNamara, the love of her life; their connection blossoming over shared cups of tea. After traveling the world separately over several months to realize their individual travel dreams, they reunited in Joe’s hometown of Wigan, England, where they became engaged on Valentine’s Day 1968.

Upon returning to Kelowna, Bev continued her dedication to nursing, eventually earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She embraced partial retirement from Kelowna General Hospital in 2001 to return to OUC and teach the very nursing program that had launched her career. Ultimately, Bev became the chair of the practical nursing program, and in 2011, was honored with the Canadian Association of Practical Nurse Educators award for mentorship. Known for her compassion, intelligence, and patience, Bev mentored countless new nurses. Many of those she once guided provided loving support in her final years, and the family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the nurses, caregivers, and staff at Mission Creek Landing.

A dedicated member of the Catholic community, Bev engaged in numerous charitable endeavors and was an active participant in the Irish traditional music group “Ceol na heireann.” Her passion for world travel, especially beach vacations in places like Aruba, created cherished memories shared with her husband on their yearly getaways. Quick-witted, loyal, a fearless caregiver, and the backbone of her family, Bev McNamara will be remembered as a devoted wife, an immensely supportive mother and grandmother, a beloved sister, a fantastic friend, and a treasured member of her community.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Funeral Mass, will be held on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024, at 10:30 AM (PDT), at St. Charles Garnier Parish 3645 Benvoulin Rd, Kelowna, BC. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service, a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM:

Service
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024, at 10:30 AM (PDT)

Location
ST. CHARLES GARNIER PARISH

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Heart & Stroke Foundation Link: www.heartandstroke.ca

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for McNAMARA, Beverly Anne is scheduled for FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024, at 10:30 AM (PDT). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

ST. CHARLES GARNIER PARISH

3645 Benvoulin Road Kelowna, BC

Phone:


Special Requests:

None.


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Condolences

  • Ashifa says:

    Dear family, I am deeply saddened by the recent loss of Bev. Your family has seen so much loss in a short time. I take comfort in the fact that you all have each other to lean on, grow in strength from this and become even closer as a family. My thoughts are with you and I know that Joe & Bev are finally together again.
    Warmest condolences,
    Ashifa

  • Carly Gunn says:

    Wishing all her children amazing memories and sending my love.

    Carly Gunn

  • Lisa Papke says:

    Deepest condolences to you all. Loosing both parents in such a short time is doubly difficult. Prayers being lifted up as you grieve and remember your mama. Blessings to each of you! love & hugs

  • Margaret Johnson says:

    Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Bev was a wonderful person. I had the honor of working with her at Okanagan College when she was in the Chair’s role for the LPN program. She always had a smile on her face and was truly passionate about her students. May her family take strength in the happy memories and may she rest in peace.

  • Arlene Irwin. says:

    Sleep peacefully dear friend. You are now back with your soulmate Joe ❤️

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