1933-2020 ~ It is with fond memories and much love we say goodbye to our mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who left us on October 30, 2020 at the age of 87.
Bunny was born at Rocketing Bay Ranch near Donalda, Alberta, on a late summer day in 1933. She was the fifth child from a family of six born to the late George and Edna Salmon.
When first held by her mother it was suggested she resembled "a precious little bunny rabbit", and so the life-long nickname was set. Bunny's education was received at Skybo and Up-To-Date rural schools, Stettler High School, and Olds School of Agriculture.
After moving to Red Deer in 1951, Bunny's training at O.S.A prepared her for subsequent employment with Jeanne's Silk Shop, and later with the Department of Agriculture.
During this time Bunny secured a four-month leave of absence and travelled throughout the U.K. and Europe, making the trans-Atlantic voyages by liner. The final 22 years of her employment were with Red Deer Public School District No. 104, where she retired in 1994.
In 1963, Bunny was united in marriage to William G. Stickel, an employee of the City of Red Deer Fire Department.
Bunny loved music, and classical and semi-classical compositions could often be heard in her home. She was also a bit of a Rolling Stones fan, as well as The Beatles. Many C.D.'s and recordings were gifts from friends and family.
Bunny's sense of humor and artistic talent were the basis of her many depictions of actual incidents (which she often sketched), complete with appropriate captions. They were always a source of amusement to those who viewed them.
Being with family and friends, and visits with her precious grandsons were treasured times, especially during her retirement. She also enjoyed volunteering her services to several organizations and charities. Her devotion to family, and to her little canine companion of nearly 16 years 'Tiffy', was always evident.
The love of nature often brought Bunny to a favorite childhood place to see the first purple bloom of the crocus, and to hear the clamor of Canada geese as they made their early spring return to Rocketing Bay.
She cared deeply for animals and creatures of every variety - great and small. Stray dogs were often given temporary room and board until their owners were contacted. Cats, birds, and horses were also appreciated friends, owing to the special bonds formed during her early tenure on the family farm. In her later years, Bunny relished the opportunity to walk through Red Deer's park systems, enjoying the wildlife sights and sounds found within.
She was a loving, dedicated mother to her children and grandchildren and was blessed with good friends and neighbors throughout her life. Along with her children and their families, Bunny is survived by four siblings, their spouses, two sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband in 1976, her brother Bruce in 1975, several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and two much-loved nephews.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful care afforded to Bunny by the ER and Unit 33 teams at RDRH, Dr. Johann Viljoen, and Randy & staff at Eastview Apple Drugs.
At the request of Bunny and her family there will be no funeral service. A private interment will be held at a later date.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to the SPCA, Hope Lives Here, STARS Air Ambulance, or to the charity of one's choice.
"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song."- Anglund
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