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Rhonda Shaw Obituary

SHAW, Rhonda Rae
February 4, 1954 - June 18, 2023

On Sunday, June 18, 2023, Rhonda Rae Shaw passed away peacefully in Edmonton, at the age of 69 years, following a year-long battle with cancer.

Nobody had a bigger heart than Rhonda. She was a kind and gentle soul who cared about everyone. Her soft voice, encouraging words and engaging eyes, reflected her positive approach to life, in any, and all circumstances. Her strong moral compass was inspirational. She touched all whom she met in ways that cannot be described, sharing so much of herself with so many. How blessed we are to have had her then and now, forever in our lives.

Rhonda fought hard to overcome her recent health battles and was always positive and upbeat, more concerned about others than herself and was looking forward to the future, not letting cancer spoil her life. Her family doctor described her as a brave and strong woman. She remained positive throughout and still signed her letters, cards, and emails with "love and smiles".

Rhonda was born in Penticton and grew up in Osoyoos in a large family. At school she was a cheerleader, saxophone player, and the smartest girl in the class. She was a farm-girl, accomplished skier, pro tire-changer, babysitter and most of all, a loyal friend. Rhonda subsequently lived and worked in Penticton, Victoria, Stewart, Surrey, and Parksville.

Rhonda married Ron German, the love of her life, in Atlin, B.C. on May 4, 1992. Ron and Rhonda were inseparable and had a life full of adventures and memories over their 38 years together - travelling, exploring, camping sailing, flying, and just being together. She embraced the spirit of adventure. Ron and Rhonda renewed their marriage vows in Atlin, days before her passing.

Rhonda was a teacher for many years, retiring in 2014 from the Surrey School District, where she worked in learning assistance. She loved books and reading and imparted that love to her students who adored her as a teacher. Rhonda enjoyed contributing to her community - she was a Brown Owl leader for Girl Guides and dedicated time to support the Special Olympics. Rhonda was creative and loved crafting treasures for those dear to her. She had great will power, a strong work ethic and was super organized.

Rhonda held family dear and maintained lifelong friendships with childhood friends from Osoyoos, work friends from Victoria, and school friends from Vancouver. She was loved by her many nieces and nephews, who fondly referred to her as "AR" (Auntie Rhonda) and (Brown) "Owl". Rhonda closely followed all their adventures and milestones and never missed a birthday, celebration, or special occasion.

Rhonda will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched and will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Ron German; sisters, Debbie (Preston) Zeeben, Wendy (Ron) Hiller and Margot Shaw (Chris Pilger); brother-in-law, Peter (Louise) German, along with her nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

She was predeceased by her mother, Ella Lora; father, James; sister, Susan; and brother, Jim.

The family would like to thank Dr. House and the healthcare team at Harrison Healthcare, the oncology staff at BC Cancer in Victoria and Nanaimo, the medical staff at Hinton Hospital and the University of Alberta Hospital for their professional and compassionate care.

Rhonda was caring, kind, and the glue that held her family together. She lived by the maxim: "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."

Spread your wings, our dear little brown owl. We know your guardian angel is looking after you.

A Celebration of Life with family and friends will be held at a later date.

In lieu of other tributes, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, https://cancer.ca/en/ or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada,
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/
Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through Park" target="_blank" class="obit-text-link">www.parkmemorial.com.
Park
Memorial
Edmonton 780-426-0050
Family Owned Funeral Home
Crematorium, Reception Centre
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Jun. 24 to Jun. 26, 2023.

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