Vera McGuire-Brunin, 1928 - 2008

Vera Ishbel McGuire-Brunin, longtime resident of Donnelly, Alberta, passed away on February 6, 2008 in Grande Prairie at Queen Elizabeth II Hospital at 79 years of age after her heart failed. She was born July 8, 1928, one of 12 children born to John and Robin McGuire. Raised by her stepmother in the Donnelly Heights area, she survived the Depression years in the 1930s by working hard, having fun, starving and freezing like everyone else. During the war, Mom and some of the family went to Prince Rupert, British Columbia, the older boys went to Europe. Mom married Henry Brunin in 1947 and together they had eight children. Mom worked mostly as a cook, in restaurants, and in the old McLennan hospital. In her spare time, Mom raised her children and helped on the farm. Mom enjoyed being with her children and grandchildren, gardening, flowers, going for walks, crossword puzzles, playing Bingo, and watching out for Dad. After breaking her hip three years ago, Mom settled in the McLennan old folks home. She loved it and made lots of friends. Staff called the family in three or four times, but she was tough and hung on. Faye was the first one there. Thanks. Mom is predeceased by her husband Henry, brothers George, Hugh, Bobby, and sister Margaret, Dad’s brother Marcel and sister Paulette. Mom leaves behind her children and their families – Terry Brunin of McLeod Lake, British Columbia, Marie (Gordon) Buchanan of Edmonton, George Brunin of McLeod Lake, Roger (Joy) Brunin of Edmonton, Roberta of Grande Prairie, Charles Brunin of Grande Prairie, Bill (Faye) Brunin of Donnelly, and Margie (Dale) Burgess of Wembley. She will be missed by her children, grandchildren, family and friends. Hoping to help others with heart disease and arthritis, Mom donated her body to the University of Alberta. A graveside service will be held.