BALKHAM Carrie

1970 ~ 2015
Carrie Gaye Balkham passed away peacefully at 44 years of age on January 21, 2015 in Lethbridge, AB. She was a beautiful and dearly loved mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. Carrie achieved her degree as a part of the Foothills Hospital final graduating class of 1995. Her career began with medical volunteer work in the Philippines, took her to hospitals in Texas and Calgary, and concluded with a rewarding tenure at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital. Actively supporting her fellow nurses, Carrie held the position of Secretary with United Nurses of Alberta Local 120 for 4 years. As deeply as Carrie loved her practice of nursing, she was equally passionate about art. As an artist, Carrie’s talents included painting, photography and poetry. She was inspired by local artists and found expression through art to be therapeutic and rewarding. Carrie is lovingly remembered by her daughter Taryn Balkham Gruninger, parents Stan and MaryLou Balkham, siblings Kelly and Garth Seitz (JennaLee and TaraLynn), Neil Balkham, Leith and Jim Damiani (Matthew and Erin), Dean Balkham (Christopher, Jason and Emilea), Shannon and Clare Watson (Jenae & Derrick Pritchard and Darcie Torscher). She was predeceased by her sister Peggy Korporal, as well as her grandparents Dave and Tillie Brown and Charles and Lena Balkham, and uncles Allen, Jim and Buster Brown and Raymond Balkham. The family would like to thank Dr. Ireland, Dr. Smutz and Dr. Brigdon, Pallative Care Nurses at St. Michael’s Health Centre, Jack Ady Cancer Centre nurses, as well as friends Sara, TK, Christine, Lynda, Tina and Susan who provided loving care and compassion during her illness. A Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00pm, and a second from 7:00pm – 9:00pm on Friday, February 6, 2015 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 St. S., Lethbridge, AB. A Celebration of Carrie’s Life will be held at 2:00pm on February 7, 2015 at EAGLES HALL, 631-13 St. N., Lethbridge, AB. Please bring fond memories and stories of Carrie to share if desired. Carrie’s daughter Taryn was her greatest love, joy and source of pride. Carrie was the best mommy anyone could ever ask for. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a memorial donation to Taryn’s university fund. For further information, please contact Martin Brothers at 403-328-2361. Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com