DONNA MARGARET LOUISE BLIGHT

(NEE CROSLAND)

September 1936 - February 2008

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Donna died at home, suddenly and unexpectedly, on Tuesday, February 5, 2008. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Dr. William J. Blight, two sons: Stephen (Lori) and David (Marzena) and four beloved grandchildren Jordan, Jared, Henryk and William. She is also survived by sister Margie Birdsell, brother John Crosland both of Calgary and sister-in-law Elizabeth Blight of Winnipeg and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and a brother James.

The daughter of George and Mabel Crosland, Donna was born, raised and began her education in Calgary. Many happy times were spent with her grandparents (Newman) in Cartwright, Manitoba. Donna graduated from the Calgary General Hospital, Queen’s University (BNS) and University of Manitoba (MA). While nursing in Saskatoon, she met her husband, moving soon after to Winnipeg where she worked briefly for the VON prior to raising her family.

She returned to work as a nursing instructor and registrar at the St. Boniface Hospital School of Nursing and as registrar with the Manitoba Association of Registered Nurses.

Donna greatly enjoyed the outdoors. She was a longtime member of the Alpine Club of Canada and introduced her boys to the joys of camping, snowshoeing and skiing. In more recent years she enjoyed many days at Falcon Lake. She served for a time as a member of the Manitoba Environmental Council.

Donna was actively involved in the community especially with the University Women's Club of Winnipeg and the Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba, serving on a variety of committees and as president of both organizations. The latter organization honoured her in 2007 at its first "Celebration of Women". She was particularly proud of celebrating the history of Manitoba by producing the Métis Suite during her term as president of the University Women's Club.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the University Women’s Club Scholarship Fund or to the Friends of Ralph Connor House (45 West Gate, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2E1) or a charity of one's choice.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 11, at St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, 881 Autumnwood Drive. An interment will take place at a later date at the Oakville, Manitoba.

The Desjardins Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements; 233-4949 or toll free 1-233-4949.

Winnipeg Free Press Online Obituary