Heather Jean Burchett

HEATHER JEAN BURCHETT (McAskill) passed away peacefully in her sleep on the evening of July 20, 2023. Born in Gladstone, Manitoba on December 8, 1940, as one of the eldest of 9 children to Roderick (d. 2003) and Vera (d. 1983) McAskill. She leaves behind her sisters Cheryl, Bobbie, and Betty, and her brother Alan. Predeceased by Lois, Rod, Val, and Verna. She fought hard to extend her time with her grandchildren Benjamin and Maisie, and Zoee, Nolan and Caylee, who were the sparks in her life. Even in the doldrums of hospitalization, a visit from the grandkids always brought out a huge smile.

Mom was adored by her three sons Drew, Chris (Cara) and Trevor (Joanne), who she raised with her husband Bob, until his brain aneurysm in 1980 changed our lives (culminating with his passing on Nov 11, 2010). She subsequently, and spectacularly, raised three kids as a single mother, teaching us the values and ethics that form upstanding citizens, all while maintaining a respected career in Nursing, earning a(nother) degree from the University of Ottawa in the evenings, and staying active skiing, curling, and walking the golf greens. All of her hard work, generosity and love for patients and family was about to pay off with imminent retirement, when her rewards were cut short with her own brain aneurysm in 1999.

Mom is renowned for her friendliness and infectious smile. A smart woman from a small town, she lived to laugh, offer gifts, compete with family over Wheel of Fortune, and hoard every memory and token from her lifetime experience. She loved to travel, especially with her kids, and could always hunt a bargain. The makers of Godiva and Laura Secord will feel the impact of her loss.

We’d like to thank the people who have been instrumental with their support over the years: Dr. Lise Beaubien, a caring and compassionate soul; her home attendant Irene, who was loved by Mom and always went beyond the call of duty, and all of the doctors, nurses and staff at St. Vincent Hospital, especially Dr. Raymond, who was with her until the end.

Heather will be laid to rest beside Bob in the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery on the grounds of Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we would very much appreciate donations toward the Heart and Stroke foundation or the Brain and Memory Program at Bruyère.