Obituary of BURKETT – Edna Allison Isabelle

August 22, 1947 – September 4, 2010 The family of Allison Burkett is sad to announce her unexpected promotion to glory on Saturday, September 4, 2010, at the age of 63. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Allison has lived in Calgary, Alberta for the last forty-one years. She received her Business Administration diploma from SAIT, as well as a diploma in Early Childhood Education and a Social Work Diploma, both from Mount Royal College. After 32 years of service dedicated to helping others as a Public Trustee Officer, Allison retired in 2008. Allison was a founding member of The Salvation Army Berkshire Citadel Community Church. As a devout Christian, she was a living example of her faith in Jesus. She was compassionate, generous, and totally committed to lovingly serving everyone. Allison is survived by three children: Jim (Natasha), Norbert (Tara), Susan (Darren Alexander); six grandchildren (Sabrina, Brooklyn, Grace, Harrison, Charlie, Ava); a sister, Jean-Eve Mark; a brother, Phillip Mark; a niece Karrie Graham; a nephew, Paul Graham; and a half sister Cheryl (Lyle) Buddecke. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 10, 2010, between the hours of 6:30-8:30pm at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North). Also, The Salvation Army Berkshire Citadel Community Church will be open for visitation prior to the celebratory service. A celebration of Allison’s life will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 11:00am at The Salvation Army Berkshire Citadel Community Church (222 Sandarac Dr., NW, Calgary, AB T3K 3M5). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in honour of Allison, to The Salvation Army Berkshire Citadel Community Church. Allison will be dearly missed as mother, grandmother, sister, church member, and friend. We love and miss you “Mamma”. In living memory of Allison Burkett, a tree will be planted at Big Hill Springs Park, Cochrane by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296. Precious Memories of Allison Burkett Allison loved her Lord and her family, especially her children, her grandchildren, her sister Jean-Eve, her church and its members. She loved to travel, go to parties, birthdays, and every gathering of people. She loved puzzles and the beach, hot dogs, diet coke, and any variety of donuts, but sprinkled donuts held a special place in her heart. She enjoyed playing the piano, singing, and she always wanted to paint and write a children’s book. Shelooked forward to dining out and was always up for a dinner date. Children had a special place in her heart and her grandchildren brought her family together. She loved picnics, balloons, pizza, bubbles and dearly loved to shop – especially at Sears on a Saturday morning. Newspapers, recipes, photos and cards – she never parted with any of these treasures. The “Winnipeggers” were particularly dear to her. She enjoyed football and cheered for the Stampeders. She loved the Stampede (and the Stampede breakfasts!!), angels, flowers and a warm cozy blanket. She listened to the Gaither’s music and looked forward to visits with/from her dear friends, especially over a cup of tea and food. Allison had a way of always seeing the very best in others, never mindful of people’s shortcomings. Allison had immense generosity and a giving heart. She had grace like no other and would forgive again and again, never holding a grudge. She had a child’s anticipation and could lighten up any room with her crazy stories and contagious laughter. She was a dreamer, and there wasn’t anyone that could change her mind once it was determined. Nothing held her down, especially her poor health. She loved The Salvation Army, was a true SOLDIER for Christ, and lived out their mission for saving souls. She was a true gem and her example will be especially missed by all.