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COE, Brenda Lea,

Sept. 25, 1966 - July 14, 2013.

Brenda was born in Drumheller, the younger daughter of Peggy and Doug Nielsen. She received all her schooling there. She passed away at her favorite place, her and Greg's summer place near Bashaw. Brenda married Greg on June 2, 1990. They lived in Fort McMurray where Greg was employed with Alberta Power. While there she obtained her diploma in Early Learning and Child Care from Keyano College. Brenda worked with special needs children in Central school in Drumheller prior to and after her marriage. Upon moving to Stettler in 1992 she managed and taught at the Share Bear Play School. Her next job took her to the Erskine Hutterite Colony where she taught classes and even coached hockey as part of Phys Ed. She got a huge hoot out of that. Even after illness forced her to resign that position, her former pupils kept in touch and brought her presents for many years. She loved children and they loved her. Brenda was a collector. Her favorite collection was probably her clocks as anyone who was at her home "at the hour" could attest. She loved to cook and entertain. Brenda's last 10 years were filled with a series of painful and debilitating illnesses. She tackled each with determination and a never failing effort to overcome them. Greg and families did their best to help her through these challenges. However she could not overcome the heart attack that took her life so suddenly. Brenda is survived by her husband Greg; her parents, Doug and Peggy Nielsen of Red Deer, her sister Shawna Forgo (Michael) and their children Chelsea, Cassie and Kyle of Airdrie. She will also be dearly missed by the Coe family; Dick and Mary; Steve (Johara); Brian (Theresa) and their children, Lyndsie and Sam. Caesar, her beloved Shih Tzu will also miss her. If friends desire they may donate in her memory to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 1400 - 522 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 2R5 or online at their website. In keeping with Brenda's wishes there was cremation. Her ashes will be interred at Memorial Gardens in Calgary at a later date where there will be a graveside service followed by a private celebration of her life. Brenda was a free spirit who spent her life with a cheerful, sunny outlook that endured in spite of her many challenges.


Rest in peace Brenda, you lived your life with good humour and dignity. We will hold your memory in our hearts forever.



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