Obituary of Donna Marie Pichie

Donna Marie Lundrigan Pichie was born June 27, 1968, in Outer Cove, Newfoundland.  After a year and a half cancer journey, she passed away peacefully on February 24, 2024, in Provost, Alberta at the age of 55 years.

She leaves to mourn her loving son Michael (Bailey) Pichie of Saskatoon, who was a strong part of Donna’s cancer journey and a very loyal son she was so proud of; and her daughter Angelea – “Angel” (as Donna would call her) who she loved unconditionally.

Donna also leaves her twin sister, Diane (Steven) Garza of Texas who she wanted nothing more than to have a relationship with; and her dearest, youngest baby sister, Denise (Corey) Bradley of Chestermere, AB.  Denise fought for Donna’s right to dignity and choice, supported her through doctors’ appointments, treatments and surgery, and made countless bedside visits.

She will be lovingly remembered by her best friends: Deli who sent up her Facebook page, fundraiser and food train, and organized multiple rides; Paul and Jackie M. who were there for all her heavy muscle needs or car troubles or just to lend a shoulder to lean on; and Jackie G, her guardian angel. Without her we don’t know what we ever would have done for a caregiver for Donna’s fur babies (kitties), Melman, Missy and Hope, and Donna’s emergency ambulance rides.

This past year Donna started a new and exciting chapter of her life in a relationship with her father, Edward Lundrigan (Patricia).  She looked forward to all their conversations and one day hoped to meet him.

Donna was predeceased by her mom Madonna Andrea Nugent; Nan, Annie Nugent and sister Deborah (Gerald) Neil; and her beloved dog Bailey.

She leaves behind nieces and nephews - David and Kyle Bradley of Chestermere, Travis and Meghan Neil of Calgary, and Genesis and Gracie Garza of Texas.

Donna finished her nursing degree in Ontario and then went to Texas to start her nursing career from 1992 to 1998.  She then moved her family to Macklin where she worked at St. Joseph’s Integrated Health Facility as a fulltime RN.

Donna’s prized possession were her children.  She worked so hard to provide for them to make sure they had everything they needed.

She was involved in many of Macklin Arts Council’s annual drama productions and enjoyed any part she played.  Hallowe’en was her favourite time of year, and she enjoyed scaring everyone as part of the annual Haunted House at the Macklin Museum.

The love of her life were her football boys – the Macklin Sabres.  Donna was their “Bench Mama”, their first aider and photographer. 

She was a crafter especially at Christmas time at the health center nursing station.  She always made sure everyone felt loved and made Christmas surprise bags for whoever was working that holiday.

Donna took pride of being a nurse for 25 years. She had a special skill set for IV starts and palliative care.  St Joe’s was her second family, and the residents and staff all loved her deeply.

Our family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Donna’s many friends and neighbours in Macklin for your help, phone calls and support for Donna’s cancer journey. We could not have done this without you and we are so grateful.

We extend our heart felt thanks to her doctors, nurses and numerous EMT staff for their wonderful care and support over the last few years.

In lieu of flowers we would like you to donate to breast cancer research or an animal shelter of your choice.

Cremation has taken place as per Donna’s wishes.  Her ashes will be taken home to Newfoundland to her final resting place next to her mom and nan.

Celebration of Life

Friday, March 1, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.

New Horizon’s Centre – Macklin, Saskatchewan

Officiating

Pastor Lois Burwash

Special Tributes

Denise Bradley

Member of St. Joseph’s staff

Family member of former St. Joseph’s resident

Macklin Adult Community Drama

Macklin Sabres Football

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream and recording of Donna’s service will be available through the GFH website. Please remember, if you are travelling from outside Saskatchewan, to allow for the one-hour time change.

For more information, please visit:

Gregory’s Funeral Home Inc.

www.gregorysfuneralhomes.com