It is with great sadness that we, the family of Donna Idrene Melnyk, announce her passing on September 7th, 2024.
Donna was born to her parents Ida & Marius Fossen on November 10th, 1942, in the town of Camrose, AB. Her family then quickly expanded to include younger brother Dwayne and later younger sister Marlise. The family moved around for a few years as Donna’s father was a grain elevator manager, and eventually put roots down in Forestburg, AB. At an early age Donna found her talent for piano, which she ended up going to school for. Donna was known as a bit of a maverick who yearned for more excitement and decided to move out on her own at the age of just sixteen to Calgary, AB. This is where she acquired her beloved upright piano that she would use throughout the years to give music lessons. Then in 1962 she was blessed with the birth of her daughter, Chareen. Later in 1964 Donna married her first husband Ed Koda, and together they adopted each other’s children which included Ed’s two boys Kim & Terry. The family of five started off together in Stettler, AB then moved to Castor, AB and eventually settled in Drumheller, AB, where Donna would call home for 54 years. During this time, she would form many friendships with neighbors, coworkers and strangers alike.
Donna also possessed a strong work ethic, and with a knack for numbers, she spent a few years working in banking but more notably she was a long-time fixture with the Western Chev Olds dealership as their Dealer Accountant for nearly 25 years. It is important to note that while working at the dealership, she pioneered early versions of computer accounting programs, which lead to her receiving many awards from General Motors Canada and made her an integral part of the continued success of the dealership.
By the late 80s, Donna began to receive her first grandchildren and by the end of the century would have many to call her own, whom she loved spending time with. Also, she had a big soft spot for animals of all types, apart from insects. However, it could be said that her family was her proudest achievement. In 1994 Donna’s family grew again, with her 2nd marriage to Paul Melnyk. They enjoyed their time together travelling abroad and visiting with family. Sadly, their time was cut short with Paul’s passing in 2002.
Donna was a loyal woman who always carried on with strength and resilience, she was continually an important figure in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. She was also a favorite aunt to her many nephews and nieces. Her character will be remembered as a proud mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sibling, daughter, auntie, and a wonderful friend to many as a warm and welcoming person to everyone in her life. Passing away peacefully in her home, Donna is survived by:
Children: Kim (Joanne) Koda; Terry Koda; Chareen Wiley Stepchildren: Rosemary (Barry) Oberg; Pauline (Barry) Fossen; Ron (Laurie) Melnyk; Don (Judy) Melnyk
Grandchildren: Regis Wiley; Marius Wiley; Carinna Wiley; Kiara Flotten; Cassandra Koda; Mathew Koda, Daina Koda; Liam Koda.
Nephews & Nieces: Marty (Barb) Forster; Jeremy (Kyla) Forster; Andra (Jeremy) Bertrand; Troy Fossen; Laurie Fossen.
Numerous great grandchildren, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren.
Predeceased by her parents Ida & Marius Fossen, Husbands Edward Koda; Paul Melnyk, Stepson Doug Melnyk.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 5th, 2024 @ 2:00 PM, at the Drumheller Ramada Inn, Raptor room with a light lunch & refreshments to follow.