Donna Shipway passed away peacefully at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, AB on July 16, 2016. Donna was born to Elizabeth (Lizzie) and Ross Griffith in London, ON and was raised on a near by family farm in the small town of Lobo, ON with her one brother and two sisters, Orville, Irene and June. Donna married her husband Robert (Bob) Shipway of Ailsa Craig, ON on October 26, 1963 and shortly after they moved to Alberta to pursue Bob’s career in the oil and gas industry. Together they began their lifelong journey raising their four children, Jodi (husband Darryn, daughters Christa and Jessa), Melanie (husband Joe and son Ken), Lacey (husband Marthinus, son Andrew and daughter Isabella), and Robert (wife Kristina, daughter Sydney and son Spencer), while living in Calgary, Edmonton and Leduc before settling on their very own family farm in Millet. Donna was always eager to help anyone in need and would welcome everyone into her home with a bright-eyed smile and home-cooked meal or fresh baked goods. She had an eye for detail in home decoration and was known to always be “dressed to the nines”. If she wasn’t baking, cooking a large meal, helping a friend, talking on the phone to keep up to date with all those that she loved dearly, Donna could be found shopping…her all-time favourite hobby. More than anything, she loved spending time with her family and seven grandchildren (eagerly awaiting the arrival of the eighth), so much so that her worldwide travels always left her homesick. Family was her world. Donna was patient, understanding, generous, kind and had endless love to give. Donna filled a special spot in the hearts of so many and will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
A memorial service will be held at Daystar Church, Friday, July 22, 10:30 a.m., 3610 Gaetz Road, Leduc, AB T9E 6N4.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University Hospital Foundation (Neurosurgery Department), 8440 – 112 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 9Z9 www.universityhospitalfoundation.ab.ca/donate.
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Karen Balding
There is never a good time to lose a mother or a wife. I share your heartache and know that you will feel Donna’s love she had for you, for eternity. I hope you gain comfort from one another , friends and family, Shed your tears and smile as brightly as Donna’s eyes sparkled.
George & Carol Lightfoot
Bob, it’s been over 50 years since we have seen each other as buddies & the many good times we shared growing up in our hometown of Ailsa Craig. Please accept our deepest condolences to you & your family & loved ones on the passing over of your wife. “In God We Trust” & until we meet again remember the good times you enjoyed together.
Marilyn and Denny Kay
Lacey and Andrew, so sad for you and your family at this most difficult of times. May you find comfort in your many happy memories and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
With Love, Marilyn & Denny Kay
To Bob Shipway and family
I give you my sincere sympathy with the passing of Donna.
Marion Simpson Greenway Ontario
Jocelyne & Doug Young
Bob, so sorry for your loss, Donna was an amazing person. May the happy memories sustain you, your family and friends. God Bless, Doug & Jocelyne
Don and Marion Van Driel
Dear Bob, Jodi, Mel, Lacey, Robert and families,
We are so sorry to hear this sad news. Donna was the ‘hub’ of your family, as mothers so often are. She was a very special person to everyone who knew her. We will be thinking of, and praying for you tomorrow and in the time to come. May the memories you hold of your wife, mom and grandma allow you to smile even through your tears.
Bill & Roselynne Ballhorn
Bob: Heartfelt condolences for you and your family. We have fond memories of you and Donna at minor hockey games. All our best.
Michelle Clarke
Mel, Lacey and family,
Thinking of you during this difficult time. I hope you find comfort in your family and friends during this time.
Pete & Karen Wilson (Carruthers)
Dear Uncle Bob & Family ……. Our hearts are heavy and we are saddened with the loss of this special lady! May we all find comfort in celebrating her life and cherishing all the wonderful memories and good times which were created during her time here on this earth! You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Rest peacefully Aunt Donna……you will be greatly missed but never forgotten! p.s. Mom will miss your phone calls!
Doug and Pat Muxlow
Our sympathies are with you Bob at the loss of this wonderful lady.
Bob and Jennifer Pawlyk
Bob and Family, we are saddened to hear of Donna’s passing. Sending our deepest condolences
Laura Davidson
Bob and family. So sorry to hear of your loss Donna was one of the good ones. She will be missed by everyone. Laura Sean and Emily
Clarke Compton
Bob and Family…. Sincere condolences to you. Thinking of you during this time of sadness. All the best.