Brenda Jean Chapman

Brenda was born in Townsville, Australia, on the 3rd of June 1940.  Her youth was spent in Tasmania and Queensland. She attended school and University in Queensland, where she then entered the teaching profession as a High School Math and Science teacher. As a youth she connected with the Church where she developed beliefs and values that stayed with her all her life.

After her Father’s passing in 1965, Brenda emigrated to Canada where she met Paul Chapman and they were married in July 1968. Their sons Ian and Lyle were born shortly after. During her career, Brenda worked at schools in Brisbane, Powell River, Port Clements and Port Alberni.

Brenda was happiest when she was with her family, especially her beloved husband Paul, as they did nearly everything together. She dearly loved her two boys, Ian and Lyle and their families, as well as her two stepsons Michael and Leigh. She was especially proud of her grandchildren Brianna, Emma-Leigh and Caden. Brenda also cherished the wonderful friends she made throughout her life.

While her health challenges, as well as the worldwide pandemic situation, impacted her ability to stay in close contact with everyone over the last year of her life, she was grateful for those friendships and the wonderful memories she had. As her boys were growing up, the Chapman home was a place that friends always felt welcome and safe.  Brenda was affectionately referred to as “Mom C” or “Mrs. C” by Ian and Lyle’s friends, many of whom have remained in touch as they have gone on to have families of their own.

Brenda was predeceased by her parents Norman & Irene Pinel; her loving, dedicated husband of 47 years, Paul, and by her stepson Michael. Brenda is survived by her sons Ian (Vikki) and Lyle (Leigh-Anne) and her younger brother Don (Shirley) as well as her nephews and their families. Brenda also leaves behind the greatest joys of her life, her Grandchildren; Brianna, Emma-Leigh and Caden. Brenda’s family wishes to express their thanks for the many heartfelt messages of sympathy and condolences they have received during this difficult time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in Brenda’s honour.

Brenda’s wishes were to be cremated and have some of her ashes spread with Paul and also some in Australia. There will be no service at this time, but the family will gather when the world is safer, and we can be together to honour the life Mom lived.