Obituary of Megan Suzanne Bensler

Megan Suzanne Bensler, beloved daughter of Mdm Justice Suzanne Bensler and Dr. Ernest C. Bensler and younger sister of Mark Bensler of Calgary, passed away suddenly on Thursday, March 25, 2004 at the age of 16 years. Megan was a follower of Jesus, and her faith shaped her daily life. Her goal in life was to help other people and she had decided to pursue a career as a medical doctor after high school so she could work with people in need in third world countries. At the time of her death she was looking forward to spending two weeks in Costa Rica with her classmates working with Habitat for Humanity during the school spring break. She was an honors student at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir where she was active in school life and in particular enjoyed her involvement in the dramatic productions staged by the school. Last year she suffered the loss of seven classmates in an avalanche, a tragedy that touched her deeply and reinforced her desire to live a meaningful life caring for others. She was actively involved in Young Life Canada, a Christian-based youth organization, and she had planned to be part of a work crew this summer in their youth camping program. She attended First Alliance Church where she was involved in the youth group and enjoyed playing guitar and keyboards as part of the youth worship team. Megan was an animal lover and was particularly fond of her horse, Eli, a paint with a feisty personality that complimented her own. She was an accomplished western rider and an enthusiastic cattle penner. Megan understood the power of leading by example, and in her short life she touched many lives. She was a beautiful, gifted and intelligent girl who will be sadly and deeply missed by her family and her many friends. Her flame, too early extinguished, burned brightly for all to see. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Monday, March 29, 2004 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. Graveside Service will be held at Eden Brook Memorial Gardens on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at 1:30 P.M. Memorial Services will be held at First Alliance (1201 Glenmore Trail S.W.) on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at 3:00 P.M. To forward condolences go to www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Young Life Canada, 126A 16th Avenue N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 1J5 www.younglife.ca, in memory of Megan. In living memory of Megan Bensler, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W., CALGARY, TELEPHONE: (403) 243-8200.