May 31, 1953 – October 15, 2023
Gabriele was born in Espenschied, Germany and is predeceased by both parents (Alexander & Helga), brother (Dieter) as well as her beloved dog Emma, a beautiful Golden Retriever who was her loving companion for over 10 years. Gabriele adored her many dogs and always had a 4-legged companion by her side, the last being Sasha, a beautiful German Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Collie mix.
Among her many vocations, Gabriele worked as an interpreter, was employed in hotel management, served in the Canadian Military and was an exceptional real estate entrepreneur. Gabriele, inspired by her grandmother who was an opera singer, loved the opera and indeed, many other art forms.
Gabriele lived in Canada, for over 40 years, including the communities of Red Deer, Alberta and Moncton, New Brunswick until finally settling in Nanaimo, BC on beautiful Vancouver Island in November 2020. Gabriele felt she had arrived home, with a stunning view of Departure Bay and the near-by woods to walk her dog, Sasha. It was a common sight to see Gabriele and Sasha walking for hours through Linley valley or the Departure Bay area. They loved their time outdoors and enjoyed the healthy air in Nanaimo’s numerous parks. Gabriele also volunteered as a dog walker with ELDERDOG Canada both in Nanaimo, BC and Moncton, New Brunswick!
Gabriele wanted to support the BC SPCA, recognizing the incredible contribution that they give to all animals and beloved pets by their mandate of protecting and enhancing the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in British Columbia.
A special thank you, to Sarah, who adopted Sasha and to the many other supporters who helped along the way and especially to the exceptional care giving staff at Avenir Memory Care, in Nanaimo. We are all so grateful for the love, respect, and generosity of authentic care, and yes, fun, that you brought to Gabriele’s last nine months. She was an exceptional human being and you all recognized that.