Obituary of IRENE "DONNA" MEDER

IRENE “DONNA” MEDER

Irene “Donna” Meder (nee McKillop) of Winnipeg passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at the age of 85 years. She was born in Russell, Manitoba to Kenneth and Bertha McKillop on April 19, 1940.

Donna was passionate about being a nurse, educator and archivist as well as spending time with her family (especially her grandsons) and time spent at the family cottage. She added sparkle to all her passions and pursued them selflessly.

After graduating from Viscount Alexander in Fort Garry in 1958, Donna trained as a RN at Winnipeg General Hospital (class of 61B). Later, she attained a Certificate in Adult Education (1983), and a BN (1988) and a MN (1995) from the University of Manitoba.

Donna was a nursing instructor for over 30 years, first at Winnipeg General Hospital (WGH) and then at Red River Community College.  She served on numerous boards including MARN, co-chaired RRCC’s Prior Learning Assessment Committee & championed recognition of prior learning in nursing, and was a co-founder of Manitoba Prior Learning Assessment Network (MPLAN). In retirement, she was on the WGH-HSC alumni executive, took a lead role in re-establishing the WGH-HSC archives, and was granted Honourary Life Membership in the Nursing Alumni. 

Donna is survived by her husband, Adolph (Lefty) of nearly 64 years; son Grant (Jocelyn) and daughter Susan; “little” brother Wayne (Micheline); sister-in-law Theresa; grandsons Michael and Ben and many nieces and nephews. 

The family extends their gratitude to all who made Donna’s life better including Cancer Care, the exceptional staff at HSC Women’s Hospital including Dr. Kean and all the 5^th Floor staff and Dr. Hayes at the MB Clinic and Grace Hospital Emergency.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to RRC Polytech to support Nursing Students as a Tribute Gift. (please indicate Donna’s name when making the gift) (https://www.rrc.ca/fundraising/donate/)  OR to the WGH-HSC Nursing Alumni (https://wghhscnursingalumni.com/donations)