It's still surreal...that my beautiful niece is no longer alive here on earth. I hope to find the emotional 'space' to write more soon, but for now, here is her obituary that I was given the privilege of putting together the morning she died. I had only 2 hours sleep and 2 hours notice, but thankfully, was able to cover the essentials without leaving out the heart.
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Heidi Thompson
Thompson, Heidi Michelle (Gascho)
Peacefully surrounded by her loving parents Sharon and Paul Gascho and dear husband Ryan Thompson, Heidi Michelle Thompson (Gascho), in her 29th year, passed away early Saturday morning, May 4, 2013 at Sakura House in Woodstock, Ontario. Our beautiful brown-eyed Heidi was born November 9, 1984 in Stratford General Hospital. At the time of her death Heidi and Ryan were residing in Stratford, Ontario. Heidi is survived by her dear husband, Ryan Thompson, loving parents, Sharon and Paul Gascho (Stratford), siblings ; Chris (Lindsay) Gascho of Toronto, Brandon (Fiona) Gascho of Stratford, Joy (Shaine) Kubassek of Listowel; nieces and nephews ; Trinity, Jade, Liam, Zion, Chenia and Josiah. Parents- in-law: Jackie (Paul) Thompson of Harriston, Rick (Marie) of Listowel, brother-in-law Shawn Thompson (Laura) and daughter Phoenix of Listowel. Heidi will be fondly remembered by her Grandparents, George Quinlan of NFLD, Mac and Phyllis Thompson of Listowel, Gerry (Wendy) Gascho of Wellesley and Harry Driedger of Chesley. Heidi was predeceased by her Oma Margaret Driedger, Grandma Jean Gascho, Aunt Marlene Toman, Uncle Richard Driedger, Cousin Jennifer Driedger and Grandma Verna Quinlan. Heidi lived more in her 28 years than many do in a lifetime. Her creative abilities, engaging personality and passion for all things artistic combined with a deep resonance for those on the fringes of society led to her to complete a 6 month school in Perth Australia and Youth With A Mission also serving in Albania, Jamacia, Australia and England. In 2008 during her time working with YWAM Belfast, Ireland that Heidi developed an aggressive brain tumor. Miraculously, the chemotherapy and radiation following surgery eliminated most of the tumor and Heidi was given another chance at life. During the next two years, she married her high-school sweetheart, Ryan Thompson, of Listowel, Ontario and continued using her gifts in painting, eclectic sewing and other unique hand-crafts. At the end of August, 2012, Heidi was re-diagnosed with another brain tumor. Initially, the chemo treatments prevented its growth, but by the end of March, 2013 a MRI showed two new sites of growth. At this point, Heidi chose quality of life over further invasive or chemical treatment. Heidi spent one week at Sakura House continually cared for by friends and family and by the compassionate staff of Sakura House. Heidi had a whimsical, reckless, compassionate, dramatic, carefree, flamboyant, artsy, gorgeous spirit and was loved by everyone whose life she touched. She will be missed immensely. Friends and relatives may call at Avon Mennonite Church 90 Greenwood Drive, Stratford, on Monday, May 6, 2013 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Avon Mennonite Church on Tuesday May 7, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow in Avondale Cemetery. As expression of sympathy donations may be made to the House of Blessing, Sakura House, Avon Mennonite Church (Sharing Fund) or the charity of one’s choice through W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford. www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com |
1 comment:
You did do a beautiful tribute though under duress
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