Devine, Heather Marlene
Obituary
Heather Marlene Devine (née McEachern) was born in Kirkland Lake, ON. She spent her early childhood years living in Barrie before moving with her family to Thunder Bay where she eventually attended nursing school at Confederation College graduating in 1983. She began her nursing career as an operating room nurse at St Joseph’s General Hospital where she made many lifelong friends that she kept close with until her passing. After the closure of St Joe’s, she continued on to work at Port Arthur General and McKellar General. In 1995, she was diagnosed with cancer and given a very grim prognosis. Despite the overwhelming odds against her, her sheer determination and love for her family got her through the most rigorous of chemotherapy, a below the knee amputation, and ultimately into remission. In 2000 she moved to Dallas, TX. As they say in Texas (and one of her favourite sayings), “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could.” There she continued nursing (working in the Baylor Healthcare system) making many new friends, however, her battles with cancer continued. Throughout her life, spending time with her two daughters, Katelyn and Lindsey, was among her greatest joys. On her initial diagnosis, her wish was simply to see them grow up. She got her wish; she lived to see Katelyn graduate medical school and begin residency and to not only see Lindsey graduate nursing school, but to pin on her nursing pin herself. Anyone who knew Heather also knew how much she loved her three puppies and the happiness they brought her. Heather made a lasting impression on her colleagues, family, and all those who knew her throughout her battle with cancer being known for her love of life, sense of humour, positivity, and perseverance. She counseled numerous others through their diagnoses with cancer, advising them they always have a chance. Unfortunately, after a valiant and arduous 22 years, osteosarcoma finally claimed her life on February 14, 2018. She passed peacefully having had a chance to say goodbye to family and friends from near and far in the comfort of her home with her puppies, as she wanted. There will be an everlasting void in the lives of her husband Patrick, two daughters, and puppies due to her passing but her suffering is over. Heather is survived by her loving husband Patrick, loving daughters Katelyn and Lindsey, parents Don and Joan McEachern, sisters Judi (Ken) Dunbar, Elizabeth McEachern and Shelley McEachern. Nieces and nephews – Kat, Amanda, Meaghan, Ryan, Jessica, Dianna, Danny, Jodie, Jeff, Kristie, David, Keith, Alissa and Rick. Funeral services will be at St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville Avenue, Allen, TX 75002 on Saturday March 17, 2018 at 1PM. In lieu of flowers a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated. (https://www.stjude.org/give.html) “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my love you will be.” Arrangements under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service and Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700
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There are so many memories working with Heather in Thunder Bay ORs, She was amazing. Her love of life was infectious. She taught us about faith , strength and love. Her love for all of you was evident daily. I hope you all find some solace in knowing how much she loved you all. She has touched so many lives,Heather made a difference, not many can say that,she was special,she was loved.
We’re all richer having known Heather and family.
Patrick, Katelyn and Lindsey,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Heather and I worked together at Baylor of Plano. She was such an inspiration to me. Throughout all of her battles with cancer she was always so positive and always had that beautiful smile on her face. She would talk about her girls and her face would just light up. Heaven has another angel. We are all blessed to have known such a beautiful, talented, courageous, and strong spirit.
I only worked with Heather for a short time at PAGH but in that time I learned to love the bright, vivacious, strong, determined ypung woman that she was and waa so moved by her sheer tenacity and faith.
I know that her family will miss her terribly but will also be thankful for the fight she put up to stay in this world until sure her family would be fine without her.
Condolences to her family but this angel is free to watch you now from above.
I remember meeting Heather for the first time at a family
bridal shower that was held in her honour. She was as nice as she was pretty and I remember thinking how lucky my cousin Patrick was to have met such a wonderful woman. Heather and I saw each other infrequently over the years and after they relocated to Dallas I kept up with her, Patrick and the girls on FaceBook sporadically. I was very saddened to hear that Heather had become terminal in the last few weeks. I always admired Heather and Patrick’s relationship and how they made a great team. They raised two wonderful daughters and I was really happy that Heather lived to see both her daughters live to adulthood and to have achieved their goals in their chosen professions. I am so sorry that Heather has passed. Patrick, Katelyn and Lyndsey you have my sincere condolences.
Pat, Katelyn and Lindsey…losing forever someone you love is a part of life we all struggle with. During your time of loss I hope that you find comfort in your memories and each other. It was wonderful to hold Heathers hand and feel the warmth of her hug as we reconnected. Bruno and I are so happy we had that opportunity. Please know that all of your family, myself, Rosemary and John send our love and condolences.
First met when she came to St. Joe’s as a new grad and how nervous she was. She caught on quick and blended well with all the staff. I remember how kind she was with the patients when they came for surgery. Condolences to Pat and family
Our condolences to Don, Joan, Shelley, Beth and all the rest of the family and friends. Cam and Mary
Dear Pat, Katelyn and Lindsey
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this heart breaking time. I worked with Heather and first image comes to mind is her beautiful happy smile. God bless you all.
Kathy Scott
Our sympathy to all the family on the passing of such a brave lady! Our hearts go out to all of you from the Grant families in Saskatchewan
Though it’s been some 20+ years, I will never forget meeting “Aunt Heather” (and the girls) on my first trip to visit her niece and my dear friend Mandi in Texas. While some people that one meets fleetingly in their youth fade in memories, she remains a vivid and vivacious personage in mine. Her smile, her laugh, her stories and of course ‘Woody’ made a strong impression on me. She was a truly exceptional person. May those she’s left find comfort in fond memories of her.
My heart goes out to you and your family during this most difficult time in your life … Remember when we are going through tough times in our lives, Jesus doesn’t stand on the outside of our tears and cheer us on, he is the center …. He is the God who is in the midst of every thing we walk through in this life … He will speak peace to use and calm the sorrow … He can be your strength and help you through this difficult time … It will get easier but will never diminish … just keep the good memories and know God is in control … Love to you and your family ….
I have many fond memories of summertime fun with Heather at her Grandparent’s home in Englehart. She was a lovely girl with such spirit. How I looked forward to her visits. It is so sad that her beautiful light is no longer shining although I am sure she will be beaming through her beautiful daughters. My deepest condolences to Pat,Katelyn and Lindsey. Rest in peace my friend. XO
God speed Heather. If there is a heaven you will no doubt be there. Here’s hoping you get to run and laugh and do all that brings you joy. You beat the odds for so many years! Good on you. Will keep you in our thoughts forever. My mom was heartbroken, but also relieved that your suffering is over. Take care Pat, and girls.
Heather,my beautiful sister, I will miss you more than words can say. I love you so much yesterday, today and forever. Thank you for funny moments, your wonderful sense of humour and your kind heart that was bigger than the whole state of Texas! My heart goes out to Pat, Lindsey and Katelyn.. and to all of our extended family and friends. Mum and dad miss you too. I will keep you close in my heart until the day comes that I will see you again. Love you, beautiful!
I have never known life without Heather in it!
Her smile and laugh are something I will hold close as I learn to navigate this new path without my old sidekick.
I will be thinking about you all this Saturday.
Sending love and hugs.
Xo
Dear Devine Family,
My prayers and thoughts are with you from here in Thunder Bay. Your Mother’s courage has been an inspiration as is your love and support for one another. Love was and is the answer. May God’s promises give you peace. Mme Jollineau XO