Obituary of Janelle Yvonne McMullan

It is with broken hearts our family announces the passing of our beautiful daughter and sister Janelle Yvonne McMullan on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at the age of 28 after a 15-year battle with mental illness. She is survived by her parents Kenny and Jocelyne, brother Patrick and his wife Jessica, family and friends. Janelle grew up in La Salle, trying all sorts of activities throughout her life including ringette, speed skating, volleyball, horseback riding, hiking, skiing, playing piano and many more. Janelle was unique in her own special way and anyone who had the pleasure of meeting her knew this, whether it be her big smile, her confidence or especially her great big laugh. She had a gift of brightening up any room. Janelle’s passion for animals and helping others began at a young age and transitioned into adulthood. This passion led her to landing her most recent job as an ER nurse at St. Boniface Hospital where despite the chaos and staff shortages, she enjoyed helping others. Janelle’s love for animals also led her to owning some very interesting pets over the years including cats, dogs, gecko, plenty of fish and even a snake! Janelle especially loved horses, where she spent many hours with our dear friend Lynne, with whom she shared a very special bond her entire life. Janelle also spent many hours reading, writing poetry, completing puzzles, painting and doing small crafts, often times making gifts for friends and family. She loved traveling and was looking forward to experiencing new adventures in the years to come. She rekindled her love for the Rocky Mountains after attending her brother’s wedding in Golden BC, and returned twice on her own to further explore. She had recently decided she wanted to move out west to work and be closer to the mountains where she felt at peace. In her last poem she wrote, she reminds us to embrace the things that make your heart sing: As the morning breaks the sun peaks over the horizon her beams gently kiss the mountaintops and snowflakes glimmer as they dance in the breeze a smile creeps across my cheeks I close my eyes and listen to my heart whisper … this is where were meant to be … this is home. Despite all the adversities, Janelle was still able to accomplish so much in her short life. She maintained top grades throughout her education and received many awards including the Governor General’s Award as well as several awards through nursing school. Janelle fought as hard as she could throughout her life to better herself. She accomplished more than most, and even through her struggles, she constantly made sure others around her felt her joy and happiness. Janelle had the biggest heart of anyone we know. Janelle, we are incredibly heartbroken but will keep trying to find comfort knowing you are in a better place where all your pains have been erased. We love and will miss you forever. We would like to thank all our family and friends for helping us navigate through these difficult times. Respecting Janelle’s wishes, a private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association. Janelle, of all the special gifts in life However great or small, To have you as our daughter and sister Was the greatest gift of all. May the winds of love flow softly And whisper in your ear ‘’We love and miss you And wish that you were here”. Deep in our hearts, your life is kept to love and cherish Not forget. No more tomorrows we can share But yesterdays are always there. A silent thought, a secret tear Keeps your memory ever near In our hearts forever. Rest in Peace Sweetie. Until we see you again…