Donna Marie FORD

Donna Ford (née Oyen), born May 13, 1937, passed away on July 25, 2018. It was a beautiful evening at Madrona Point, BC, and she was surrounded by family, love, and nature.

Donna (Mom, Grammy) was a remarkable person. She was one of the first women in Canada to obtain a PhD in her field, and she earned it while working and raising two children on her own. She was a trail-blazer and a role model. She was a respected professor and gifted teacher of anatomy, first at the University of Alberta and then at the University of British Columbia. She had a lasting effect on generations of Rehab Medicine and medical students. Donna was a hiker, a kayaker, a music lover, a lifelong optimist, and she was utterly devoted to her family. She overcame great obstacles in her life but somehow did so lightly, without ego. She was strong. She was exceptionally generous. She loved conversation, laughter, and a good party. Her greatest gift may have been her ability to appreciate the people and the world around her. She never stopped marvelling, she felt lucky, she was happy.

Donna leaves behind brother Gerald Oyen (Maureen Beattie), children Cristie Ford (Alex Burton) and Bryce Ford (Heather Bowes), beloved grandchildren Moss, Nina Liv, Kate, and Lauren, and many cherished friends. In lieu of flowers, please light a candle for her in the evening of August 23, 2018.

Lives Cherished and Celebrated