June 1, 1972 – August 14, 2026
This is my last goodbye to my family and friends. Mom and Dad; Garry & Adele Henry, my sister Melissa with her husband Roger Hebert, and their kids Natasha and Morgan, along with my wonderful stepchildren Kody and Haylie Benincasa. Lastly, I was lucky enough to meet my grandson, Wesley. Not to forget all my amazing Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins-too many to name here-and the countless friends who shared this journey with me.
A big thank you to Doctor Armour Boake. You were more than just a doctor; you were a true friend. I appreciate everything you did for me. And of course, I have to give a huge shout out to the Renal Department and all their fantastic staff.
Please don’t shed tears; I’ve enjoyed far more good times than I could’ve ever hoped for.
My health conditions changed a lot when I was six years old, but that didn’t stop me from finding joy in the great outdoors and spending time with my dogs. I loved kayaking, canoeing, camping in both summer and winter, as well as rock climbing. I’ve always said Thunder Bay is the best place to live because it has everything! As time went on and restrictions increased, I picked up hobbies like playing guitar and carving. Most of you probably have some of my top hits!
Joining the 16th Fort William Scouts was a turning point for me. Our leaders weren’t intimidated by my situation-they took us camping regularly, even in winter and during Scout jamborees. That’s when I realized how much fun being out in nature really was.
I wanted to try everything-especially when people said “you can’t do that.” That was music to my ears! Especially coming from Gramma and Grampa. There wasn’t anything I wouldn’t at least attempt-and often succeeded at! When things got tough later on, I found new hobbies making various art pieces for friends and family. Sorry mom and dad about all the mess! Then came the guitars-I’m sure most of you have recordings of what I thought were number one hits!
So let’s recap:
I won’t live; boy did I prove that wrong.
I won’t walk? Well here I am walking-not perfectly straight but still on my feet.
I can’t go winter camping? Right again.
One of my last wishes was seeing my grandson-congrats Kody! It meant so much meeting Wesley. I hope he grows up making you proud just like you made me proud. Sorry folks-I CAN, I DID-and most importantly-I DID IT MY WAY.
<p As per my wishes there will be no funeral service. Raise a shot of Amaretto in remembrance instead! If friends wish to contribute something meaningful, donations can be made to Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre's Renal Department.
You can leave online condolences at www. nwfainc. com
