Brenda Lee (Gabriel) Clarkson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brenda Lee Clarkson, of Winnipegosis, Manitoba on December 11, 2024, at the age of 61. 

Brenda was born in Winnipegosis, Manitoba, on June 6, 1963 to Verna and James Gabriel. She spent her early years growing up in Skownan, Manitoba before the family moved to Winnipegosis. 

From an early age, Brenda was a natural leader, keeping her siblings, Gail, Gerald, Shelly and Ronald in line. They shared many laughs and great memories. Brenda had a reputation for always being up to something and being the eldest, she spent a lot of time with her aunties. During her high school years Brenda excelled at fastball. “Gabby” was well known at the plate, often hitting home runs. 

While in high school, Brenda met Reynold Clarkson, the love of her life and her devoted partner for decades. The two enjoyed going for rides out in the country and going hunting. Brenda helped Reynold pack a moose or two out of the bush in their travels, even though she wasn’t always happy with how far they had to go. 

As Reynold worked away to provide for the family, Brenda was a homemaker who enjoyed taking her kids to activities, whether it was figure skating, hockey, baseball, basketball or volleyball. Over the years, she also worked at various odd jobs in Winnipegosis. Brenda adored her four grandchildren who brought her immense joy and pride when she was able to see them in person or received pictures and videos of what they were doing. Her beloved dog, Winslow, was also a constant companion and source of comfort in recent years. 

In her later years, Brenda faced significant health challenges with remarkable strength. Reynold devoted himself to her care, lovingly tending to her every need at home. During the last three months of her life, Brenda was cared for at Winnipegosis & District Health Centre, where Reynold continued to visit daily and assist with her care.

Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Verna (Whitford) and James Gabriel.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Reynold, her children Lacey (Kara), Rendall, and Orry (Paula); her four grandchildren, Austin, Walter, Theo, and Claire; her beloved dog, Winslow; and her siblings, Gail, Gerald, Shelly, Ronald, James Jr, Timothy, Mark, Jaime, David, Carolyn and Kathleen. She is also lovingly remembered by her parents-in-law, Robert and Vivian Clarkson.

A celebration of Brenda’s life was held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the Sneath-Strilchuk Family Care Centre, Dauphin, MB  with Pastor Andrew Wiens officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Winnipegosis & District Health Centre, in Brenda’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brenda Lee (Gabriel) Clarkson, please visit our floral store.