We Remember

DESHARNAIS, Margaret Elizabeth (née Labonte Smith)

January 29, 1939 — October 8, 2022

It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret Elizabeth Desharnais from cancer, on the morning of Saturday, October 8, 2022.

Margaret was born and grew up in Cranbrook, British Columbia, where she attended school and met her husband of 60 years, Lionel. Margaret trained as a nurse at St. Paul’s Hospital. She and Lionel then travelled across the country, living in Toronto, Winnipeg, and Vancouver, before settling in Kelowna where she built her life and provided a home for her family. She was a woman of integrity, wit and love. She had a remarkable thirst for knowledge and remained ever-curious. She always had a book (or three) and numerous complex word and crossword puzzles on the go. Her family relied on her sharp intellect, deep thoughtfulness, sage advice, and keen eye for design and style. She enjoyed all the Okanagan had to offer, playing golf, tennis, and skiing. Margaret leaves behind her loving husband Lionel; children Craig (Hazel), Shannon (Laird), and Matthew; and grandchildren Hannah and Ben (Craig and Hazel), and Emmeline and Annabel (Shannon and Laird), who will carry her memory always.

As per Margaret’s wishes, there will be no funeral. Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Kelowna Hospice House.

Warm thanks to the staff of Kelowna Hospice House, to Margaret’s doctors, and to Springfield Funeral Home, whose kindness and care were a great comfort to us all.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Kelowna Hospice House Link: hospicehousekelowna.com

 


 


Condolences

  • Krista Freeman says:
    October 14, 2022 at 9:33 am

    Heartfelt condolences to the Desharnais family on your loss. We are thinking of you during this difficult time. Sending love and hugs.
    Jamie and Krista

    Reply
  • Beverly M. Margaret Brewer says:
    October 14, 2022 at 8:41 pm

    So sorry to hear of Margaret’s passing. Unfortunately we have never been able to be in touch since we were classmates at
    St. Paul’s. Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your wife, mother & grandmother. She will be missed. I am so sorry that we had not had a chance to keep in touch with her over the years .
    Sincerely
    Beverly Brewer (Baird) Class of 1960

    Reply
  • Jacquie Brock says:
    October 15, 2022 at 10:21 am

    Condolences to Margaret’s family on her loss. I remember her fondly from the class of 1960.
    Jacquie Brock (Long)

    Reply
  • Elizabeth ( Byrne ) Kosi says:
    October 15, 2022 at 5:45 pm

    So sorry to hear the news ! Nice to hear about her life after St . Paul’s . Margaret was always reticent – but with firm opinions I remember – She was a 7 th floor angel
    Great memories of our youth – special condolences to Lionel and family – would love to have played tennis or golf with her – !
    Liz

    Reply

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Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke