Rowntree, Donna

June 23, 2024

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DONNA FAYE ROWNTREE (nee Witwicki), born on April 24, 1947 to John Michael Witwicki and Dorene Saccardo Witwicki Hammell, passed away peacefully at the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit on June 23, 2024 with family by her side.

She left behind her husband of 57 years, Alan James Rowntree, her daughter, Shauna (Tim) Armstrong, her two grandchildren Logan and Kira Armstrong, and her sister Sherry Smeltzer.

Mom and Dad were married in Lethbridge on February 4, 1967 and had one daughter, two years later. After losing her father in 1967, she gained a new family in 1972 when her mother married Harold Hammell of Calgary. Together, there were now four more siblings, three stepsisters; Claudia (Doug) Norris, Harlene Day, Debbie (Ed) Sweep and one step brother; Clint Hammell.

Mom had a long career as a lab tech at the Lethbridge Municipal Hospital before becoming the Lab Manager and eventually, the Administrative Coordinator at the Chinook Regional Hospital. Always striving for further education, Mom returned to the University of Lethbridge and received her Management Certificate in 1991, all while continuing to work full time. She retired in 2002 at the age of 55 after putting in over 34 years at the hospital.

After retirement, Mom and Dad promptly bought a place down in Palm Springs, escaping the winters of Alberta for over 20 years. She loved the heat and the sun and spent her days hiking the trails in Palm Springs, walking everywhere she could and golfing. They made many friends down there and truly enjoyed their retirement years.

When they weren’t down south, Mom devoted all of her time at home with her daughter ‘s family, helping whenever she could and being the best grandma to her two grandkids, her pride and joy. She also enjoyed walking for hours or being on the golf course with the girls. Another love of Mom’s was running, she belonged to the Runner’s Soul Marathon Club for many years, and completed numerous runs of all distances ranging from 5K to 50K, including the Boston Marathon in 2003. She made many friends in the running community over the years and thoroughly enjoyed running in the coulees with the “group” (you know who you are).

We lost a beautiful soul this week. She was my best friend, a loving wife, mother and mother-in-law, and the best grandma around. Rest peacefully Mom.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Ovarian Cancer Canada (ovariancanada.org) or any organization of your choosing.

Dear Shauna and Tim and the entire Rowntree/Armstrong and extended clan, I was so sorry to read that Donna passed away. I have many memories of being at the Rowntree home when I was in university visiting Lethbridge with Shauna. My best and favorite/embarrassing moment was 'learning' to drive the stick shift, almost through the garage wall. Donna came out to see what the noise was and just shook her head at her girl and her new friend who Donna just met! First impressions did not mar the relationship and I always felt welcomed at Al and Donna's home. It's been years since I've seen the Lethbridge crew but you have been in my thoughts. May those wonderful memories of a patient, caring, funny, and loving wife, mother, and grandmother carry you in your times of sadness. Much love, Maureen

Maureen Ross (Napier), July 18, 2024

Dear Shauna, Al and family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Donna’s passing. Her passionate, fun loving personality was contagious, inspiring and always brightened your day. She was loved and her memory will be forever cherished. With sympathy, Pat Keith

Pat & Kevin Keith, July 15, 2024

Growing up, our family was very fortunate to have the Rowntrees as our friendly next door neighbours on 20th Street. Donna was a very special person who had amazing qualities and talents. Her laughter and smile was contagious and she was greatly admired by our family. Al, Shauna and family, may you always treasure her memories and always feel surrounded by her love. Our heartfelt sympathies are with you. Sincerely, Awny, Jehan, Marie, Irene and Nevine Cassis

Jehan Cassis, July 10, 2024

Shauna, Tim, Logan, Kira and Al, I hold a very special place in my heart for Donna. She was a very special person, especially during my teenage years, she was like a second Mom to me. We send our heartfelt sympathy to you all. Much love and support , Barb and Darin Rayburn

Barb and Darin Rayburn, July 5, 2024

Al, I was saddened to learn of Donna's passing. My condolences to you and your family. May you find solace in the memories she helped create during her lifetime.

Brenda Rennie, July 4, 2024

Tree, so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you.

Rod & Carol Linn, July 3, 2024

Al, to you and your family, our condolences at the loss of Donna. Our thoughts are with you through this difficult time.

Leo VandenHeuvel, July 3, 2024

Al and family, my sympathy in Donna’s passing. Worked with her in the lab and always enjoyed her bubbly personality! I hope warm memories will comfort you all!

Myrna Moulton, July 2, 2024

I'm so sorry to learn of Donna's passing. Fun fellow student in high school and fun to golf with more recently.

RUTH ATWOOD, July 1, 2024

I am very sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. I worked closely with her for several years at the hospital, had much respect for her, and considered her a good friend. I lost contact with her after her retirement, but I have many good memories of the years we worked together. Sincere condolences to Al, Shauna, Tim and your family.

Barbara Popna, June 30, 2024

So sorry to hear of Donna’s passing Al. Although we did not know her well everyone who did knew how special she was and how she will be missed by your family and friends will be missed by your family and all of your friends

Tom and Jan Hudson, June 29, 2024

Al & Family, We are so sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.

Grace & Earl Ingarfield, June 29, 2024

Al and Shauna so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. We worked together over thirty years and I have many, many happy memories working together. She is now at peace. Remember it’s not good bye it is until you meet again. Rest in peace Donna .

Suzanne Grouette, June 29, 2024

I am so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. She was a wonderful kind, caring person who gave her best in every part of her life. It was a pleasure to know her and work with her. My sincere sympathy to her family and everyone close to her.

Pam Whitnack, June 28, 2024

So sorry that you have lost a great spirit. She always had a ready smile and more energy than all of us! Both Hubert and I send our condolences.

Irene Balutis, June 28, 2024

Alan. I am sorry to hear of the loss Donna. Her suffering is now over and she can Rest In Peace. I hope you and the family peace as well

Helen Zubach, June 28, 2024

Shauna: Heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your amazing mom. I knew her from working at the hospital and through the running club, always admiring her running stamina!

Oli Larsen, June 28, 2024

Al and Family---We are sad to read of Donna's passing. May all the memories of the past help you during this sad time of your lives. Sincerely--Tim Richards; Maxine Richards.

Maxine Richards, June 28, 2024

Rowntree, Donna

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