Rena Elizabeth Sinden

July 2, 1950 - December 5, 2024

We are mourning the loss of Rena (also lovingly known as “Auntie Rene”) who passed away December 5, 2024 after a short illness with her sister by her side at the Lake of the Woods District hospital, Kenora, Sadly her younger sister passed away 7 months to the day before Rena.

She was born in Ottawa the third of five children. She never let being the middle child hold her back. She excelled in everything she tackled always at the top of her class and excelling in basketball, volleyball and track and field. After graduating from Queen’s University she moved to Sioux Narrows to help her sister and brother- in-law run and grow their business Woodland Resort supposedly for a year but fell in love with Lake of the Woods and stayed. She then moved to Longbow Lake teaching at Confederation College for a few years. Again she joined her family in running and growing their next business The Blue Heron and moved to Kenora. It was Rena that made the business succeed. She worked tirelessly and never forgot a face. No matter whom you were if you came in the store a second time she would remember you, likely your name and your first born’s as well. She was kind and compassionate with a very quick wit that could put a smile on anyone’s face. She was a great listener and always put others needs before her own.

Rena was predeceased by her parents John and Virginia Sinden, sister Peggy Borg, brothers David Sinden and Bill Sinden, sister- in-law Margaret Sinden, brother-in-law Jim Johansen.

She is survived by her sister Coralee Johansen, sister-in-laws Harriet Sinden and Kerry Sinden and brother- in-law Frank Borg as well as 9 nieces and nephews, 18 great nieces and nephews and cousins Nancy and Rick.

According to Rena’s wishes cremation has taken place. She will be laid to rest at Pineridge Cemetery, Sioux Narrows.

Thank you to our amazing paramedics, the E.R. staff, Dr. Krahn, Dr. Richards & Charlene Charlebois and the palliative care staff for their great care. Thank you to Cory Jinkerson at Brown’s for his help and compassion. And, to Bruce, Marleen, Marion, Donna, Rhea, Tracy, Brian, Jan and so many friends and family thank you for all of your love, support and helping hands.

Rena was deeply concerned about the well-being of her community and everyone in it. Should you desire donations could be made to: Kenora & Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, P.O. Box 441, Kenora, ON P9N 3X4

Rena, you will be in our hearts forever. Rest in Peace by beautiful Lake of the Woods.