Brenda Mae Bowman

Brenda Mae Bowman (née Shabatka)

February 4, 1951 – January 1, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Mae Bowman (née Shabatka) on January 1, 2025, at the age of 73, in Victoria, British Columbia. Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Doris and Leo Shabatka, and her second husband, Gary Bowman.

Born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, on February 4, 1951, Brenda was the second of five daughters to Doris and Leo. She remained close with her sisters throughout her life, cherishing their bond and the “sisters’ weekends” they enjoyed together. Her sisters Heather (Bob), Norma (Norman), Bonnie (Cal), and Donna (Wade) will forever treasure the memories of their time together.

Before settling in Victoria, Brenda’s journey through life took her across Canada, from Medicine Hat to Toronto, Winnipeg, La Ronge, Sherwood Park, and Regina, where she and her husband, Wayne Kaldestad, raised three children: Kathryn, Michelle (Tim), and Steve (Jodi). She was a devoted mother, always putting family first with her boundless energy, unwavering positivity, and love of life. Brenda’s love for her five grandchildren—Eden, Jacob, Jordan, Hazel, and Siggi—was immeasurable, and she delighted in supporting, guiding and entertaining them with an open heart and a youthful energy.

Brenda had a deep love for the arts, particularly pottery, which she took up while living in La Ronge. Her creative spirit was a cherished part of who she was. At the age of 49 she took on the huge task of going back to school, obtaining her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Alberta College of Art and Design. Brenda had an adventurous spirit and was always up for new challenges and adventures. Never one to stay still, she travelled across Canada and to Europe, Nepal, Mexico, and Australia, making friends and learning about the world along the way.

Brenda found joy in supporting her family in any way she could, including cleaning, gardening, and caring for her grandkids. She was tireless in her willingness to quietly nurture and support those she loved. Brenda was also dedicated to caring for others in her professional life. She received her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) accreditation in Calgary and worked in the health care system across five provinces: Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. Whether in her role as a mother, grandmother, healthcare worker, or friend, Brenda’s legacy of taking joy in helping others will always be remembered.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Canadian Alzheimer Society in her memory.

Rest in peace, Brenda. You will be forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.