StettlerLocal.com September 14, 2021 @ 8:45am
Where are you from? Where did you grow up?
I am originally from Drumheller, Alberta and that is where I grew up and completed grades 1 through 12.
Why do you (did you) choose Stettler as home?
I moved to Stettler in April of 1995 to continued my career as a funeral director and embalmer at Brennen Funeral Home. In the year 2001, I was very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to purchase Brennen Funeral Home and was owner/operator for over 16 years. After a 32-year career in the funeral profession, it seemed only natural to transition into the position I now hold. My passion has always been and will always be serving people, particularly seniors.
What do you do? What is your full title?
I am currently working with the County of Stettler Housing Authority as Manager of the Heart Haven Lodge here in Stettler. I have been here for almost two years now and I love my job very much. I feel blessed that I can continue my life long passion for working with and helping seniors. I have a great admiration for the wisdom they have to share and all the ways they contribute to our great community…past, present and future!
Family?
I have been with my life partner Mark Smitten, whom I met in Stettler, for 26 years and have two wonderful stepsons, two amazing daughters in law and five absolutely perfect grandchildren which I enjoy very much.
Education?
Following high school, I attended Humber College out of Toronto through correspondence courses and in class training and earned my funeral director and embalming licence. I am currently enrolled in the Site Manager Certificate Program for Seniors Housing through RDC and I am enjoying the opportunity for continued learning.
Who inspired you in your youth? I really have been lucky to have many people in my life as inspiration however I feel that Mr. John Brennen, a life long Stettler resident has had the biggest impact on my life. I would spend hours listening to him recap the history of Stettler all the way back from when his father came here from Calgary in 1907. He was so proud to live here and be a contributing part of the history of Stettler himself. He was truly one of the most remarkable people that I can say I have had the privilege of knowing. He taught me so much about the importance of having a “service above self” attitude and the importance of being a positive part of your community in any way you can!
Who inspires you now?
Honestly, I am inspired every day when I come to work. I get to share my days with so many wonderful people. The residents of the Lodge with their huge contributions to Stettler and the things they all did to create our great town. I am also very much inspired by the staff here at the Lodge. I marvel everyday at how hard they all work and how much they truly care about the residents and the close friendships they have developed over the years with each of them.
Do you have any hobbies?
I don’t have any hobbies in particular however I do love just being outside, camping, spending time in the mountains and going for walks.
What are your plans for the future?
When I look at my future, I see myself working at the Lodge until my retirement, and enjoying life and all that it has to show me!
Anything else you would like to add about being a resident of Stettler?
I absolutely love Stettler and all of the kind people and the many opportunities. I am very thankful that I moved here so many years ago. I have met so many really great friends and find that Stettler has a lot to offer young an old alike. I can’t image calling anywhere else home.
Thank you to Sylvie Tremblay for participating in our Local Spotlights.