November 8, 1963 - February 3, 2019
It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of Eileen "Pudds" Gettman on February 3, 2019 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre, Blairmore, AB. She was taken from us too soon at the age of 55 years.
Eileen was born in Ontario, but moved to the Crowsnest Pass when she was two years old. On February 11, 2002, she met the man who was her soul mate, Dean Bennett. The happy couple went on to be blessed with seventeen wonderful years together.
Eileen was a very active person. Whether working, riding her horses, playing softball, or skiing, she rarely sat still for long. She also had a passion for rodeo and contributing to her community, which was showcased in her long-time membership and avid involvement with the Kananaskis Rodeo Association. She was also a lifelong member of the Quarter Horse Association. Eileen also had a huge heart - especially when it came to animals. She loved her dogs, horses and miniature donkeys, and always found room for a stray in need of rescue. In addition to her kindness and compassion, Eileen had an amazing work ethic. From hairstylist, to haul-truck driver, to training coordinator, she put her all into any job she did.
No one was more determined and courageous than Eileen. She was not afraid to fight for what she believed in and she never gave up. Not even stage four cancer could slow her down - she ignored the pain and accomplished everything she set her mind to.
Eileen would want us all to remember that "you never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul", so to live every day to it's fullest. She would also remind us that family is the most important blessing of all, and tell us to mend fences and love each other unconditionally. Eileen's extraordinary capacity to love and her tenacious spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by everyone who was fortunate enough to have known her.
Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life is her husband, Dean Bennett of Bellevue, AB; her parents, Joan and Ray Banga of Lundbreck, AB; her children, Brad (Lacy) Burton, AmyLynn Gettman, Trent (Cara) Bennett and Cole Bennett; her grandchildren, Jayla Lynn Burton and Rylee Stedman; her siblings, Ray (Laurie) Banga Jr., Elaine (Denis) Beaudoin and Chad Banga; as well as her extended family and countless dear friends.
She was predeceased by her sister, Yvonne Cuddy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bellevue Legion (2401, 213 St., Bellevue, AB) on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 2:00 pm with Rev. Renso Castellarin officiating. Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca, or #200 - 325 Manning Rd. NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5).
Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555.