Dana Michelle Peatling

On the morning of July 31st, 2025, our world grew quieter as we said goodbye to our beloved Mom.

After a courageous and unrelenting battle with Glioblastoma, a journey she faced with immeasurable strength and grace since her diagnosis last August, she passed peacefully, surrounded by the people who loved her most.

At her side were her children, Christopher, Chelsey, and Michelle, her devoted life partner and husband Derek, and her cherished baby sister Tricia. She did not suffer; her passing was serene — a reflection of the gentle soul she was in this life. The moment she said goodbye at our Family cottage overlooking the lake, the energy in the air shifted — she was gone but her spirit wrapped around us — the sun was bright, the wind was soft and we felt her close to us in our special place.

As we lowered our cottage flag at half mass, Mom would have been so proud of the unwavering love and care that surrounded her through every moment of this fight, most notably by our Dad. The depth of compassion, tenderness, and unity from her family and friends was a testament to the incredible woman she was — a woman who poured endless love into every life she touched, leaving us all better, kinder, and stronger for having been loved by her.

We are heartbroken beyond measure, yet the grief we share is born from the boundless love we have for her. Her radiant huge smile, her warmth, her soft, loving soul —they are imprinted on us forever. Though our hearts ache, we know her spirit will live on in us, guiding us, giving us the strength to keep moving forward, and reminding us to love as deeply and fiercely as she did.

Mom’s time she was given after her diagnosis was a true gift. So precious that even in this unbearable sadness, we know every moment with her was worth it all.

She lived these past months hard and passionately; making it to Florida, spending one last Christmas spoiling her grandchildren, giving my sister away at her wedding and finally making it back to our family cottage where we shared so many firsts and lasts together. We will remember her in every breath we take, every glass we pour, in every flicker of joy, in every act of kindness. Her legacy of love will echo through our lives forevermore.

Rest peacefully, Mom, Dede, or beloved Dana. We will carry you with us always.

Dana wanted everyone to be there at her funeral. She was so proud of her family, friendships and the support all of us had from others during her time here. We welcome everyone who wishes to come celebrate Earth’s newest Angel to join us on Thursday August 7th, 2025 at 12pm at The Glen Orchard Community Church. A burial service will follow at the Glen Orchard Cemetery for our closest Family and Friends, as well as a private reception at our Family Cottage.

Dana requested to support children in Muskoka beyond her time here to do so. Specifically, to be able to send children to summer camps to enjoy the experiences she gave to her own grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, we welcome you to make a donation to the Children’s Foundation of Muskoka. https://www.childrenofmuskoka.com/donations/