     Although we come into and leave this world alone,  we are sometimes blessed along the way with a friend who makes this lonely journey a meaningful one, and who gives her all to the bond of friendship.   Heather O'Donnell was once such individual.  She was, what one would call, a rainy day friend.  
     Rainy day friends are those who listen to us when life is difficult and remain faithful in friendship when the rest of the world has no time for us.  Heather was  around to celebrate successes and make good times, but more importantly, she came to our side to comfort, console, and support us when times were tough.  Anyone who cared for Heather knew her sincerity and loyalty were genuine, yet she asked for so little in return.
     At this time of year, I am reminded of two Christmases that we spent together: one year she came to Kamloops to join our family and to help me make tamales for the very first time; and another, when she joined Ken and I for a seasonal gathering in Bellingham, WA, where we rented motel kitchenettes, cooked  and feasted on seafood.
     In a friendship that spanned nearly 40 years, I can honestly say that I will never have another friend like Heather O'Donnell because friendships like these take a lifetime and a mutual commitment.  So,  I will remember our fishing trips, our phone calls, our get-togethers, our road trip to Colorado.
     For all of us, who were lucky enough to have her for our friend, and for Colleen and family,  we can be grateful Heather was in our lives as we recall her beautiful smile to carry her memory forward.


Though we didn't spend a lot of time together, Heather, I have several impressionable memories.  Probably at the top of my list is being led by you around the back of your house in Mission to see an amazing garden you had created in the ravine / gully behind your house.  It was a quiet, beautiful and peaceful place where you had planted many flowers and shrubs - brilliant colours.  It was stunning.  And most recently was our girls fishing get together at the Coquihalla cabins - 5 years ago.  I also remember that you were the first woman hired by the CN railroad to work as a labourer out of Blue River.  You were so strong - physically, emotionally and spiritually - in spite of considerable adversity in you life.  May you have the peace you deserved in life now!  XO Laura

Henderson's Langley Funeral Home

Heather O'Donnell

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Heather Ann O'Donnell

20 October, 1951 – 16 December, 2019

Henderson's Langley Funeral Home

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