NWACHI, Dawna R.

September 1962 – January 2020
Following a battle with pancreatic cancer, Dawna Nwachi peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Saviour in the last week of January 2020. By her side was Mel H., her long-time brother in Christ, and also with her that day were dear companions Myka D.-S. and Laureen D., along with Johanna S. and Martin E.Predeceased by parents Barbara and Fred, as well as by sisters Debbie and Marilyn; sister to Danny (Dale), David (Dianne), Gisele, Mark (Brenda) and Stephen B., as well as to Linda Y.-C. & Rex C.; cherished ‘auntie’ to Tammy S. and Yvette D., among a number of nieces and nephews; and close friend of BettyAnn B. & Graham S., Michael F., Tanya H., Rachelle L., Nnanna N. and Francis W. Dawna was also like an aunt to Laureen’s daughter, Sophia D., whom she had known from birth.Particularly endearing was Dawna’s dedication to pets (Trixie, Leo, Sylvester, Kiki and Cayden, in addition to rescued squirrels Sable, Gandalf and Osi), along with her fondness for board games, hosting, and travelling. Her leadership, creativity, and spunk set her apart as a remarkable individual who was a strong presence at the office, church, and… well, pretty much anywhere she set foot!Dawna’s feisty and courageous nature was all the more remarkable in the face of her illness. Over the past few months with us, she demonstrated a generous heart overflowing with kindness and consideration, as well as admirable determination, focus, and attentiveness in her personal affairs.

Full of joie de vivre, Dawna was renowned for her sense of humour and commitment to her friends, along with her boldness, which she attributed to the leading of Holy Spirit. The many years she spent in music ministry testified to her deep connection with others and with God in times of worship. Although she will be so greatly missed, we are blessed to know that she is now reunited with her heavenly Father, whom she lovingly referred to as Daddy God.

It was Dawna’s wish that, in her memory, we enjoy ourselves. In this spirit of fellowship, her family, friends, and Christian community are invited to a Celebration of Life at the Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre (300 Pères Blancs Avenue) on Friday, February 28^th, between 4 and 8 p.m., with prayers and words of remembrance at 6 p.m. As a nod to Dawna’s appreciation for bright attire, guests are welcome to dress colourfully!

For those who would like to make a charitable donation in lieu of flowers, please consider the May Court Hospice (https://www.hospicecareottawa.ca/), the Canadian Cancer Society, or Diabetes Canada.

In closing, we take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the staff and volunteers at the Ottawa General Hospital and most especially at the May Court Hospice, who took such good care of our friend, and thanks to whom Dawna spent her last days in peace and dignity.