Stella McKenna (Klein)

Dec 26, 1931 – Feb 11, 2021

It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of our mom, Stella McKenna on February 11, 2021. Stella was born in Golden Prairie Saskatchewan to Paul and Mary Dubinsky. She grew up on the farm with her two sisters, Olga Ternes and Helen Matiouski.

Later, Stella moved to Maple Creek and started working in the local hospital. Stella then met Harry Klein whom she later married. Stella and Harry then moved to Port Coquitlam, B.C. in the spring of 1952, there they raised their four children: Harold (Trudy) Klein, Donna (Dwayne) Friskie, Alan (Gail) Klein, and Val (Keith) Fairweather. She also had six grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Stella also worked at Riverview Hospital while raising her family. In 1974 Harry and Stella bought the “Highland Motel” in Falkland. The Falkland years were a great time; many good friends and family passed through those doors, i.e. “Man in Motion” Rick Hanson. At that time, Stella also worked at Dellview Hospital until it closed down. Then she worked at Polson Hospital until she retired. During this time, Stella and Harry joined the curling leagues in Falkland and Armstrong. They also became involved in their community by doing volunteer work.

After retiring, Stella and Harry moved into Desert Cove back in 1990, and again, became very involved with their little community by doing volunteer work and joining many committees (Treasurer, Ways and Means Committees, etc.)

Mom also had many hobbies. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, photography, fishing (she loved fishing) and camping. Sadly, Harry passed away in August 1999. Stella stayed in Desert Cove where she had many good friends. Later, she met Doug McKenna whom she married in March, 2002. Stella and Doug shared many adventures. Together they travelled all over B.C and did some boat cruises. They also travelled to the East Coast and toured the Maritimes. They also shared a passion for camping and fishing. In October of 2012, Doug passed away. Then in the spring of 2013 Stella moved into “Caterbury Court” where she made many new friends and some former “Covians” neighbours.

Stella will be cremated and laid to rest beside Harry Klein at Pleasant Valley Cemetery. Due to Covid restrictions there will be no funeral. The family will have a private memorial at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to the Canadian Cancer Foundation.

Arrangements in care of Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, Vernon, B.C. 250-542-4333.