SIGAL, Sky Sigal (RJ Sky Sigal) – nee Rhoda Sky
June 29, 1932 - August 30, 2011

On August 30, 2011, Sky Sigal passed away peacefully in Kelowna Hospice at the age of 79 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Sky was predeceased by her parents Frances and Norman Sky of Toronto, Ontario and her former husband, Saul Sigal of Oyama, BC. Sky is survived by her sister Shirlee (Doug) Hoffman of Chicago, Illinois, her brother Milton Sky of Phoenix, Arizona, sisters–in-law Miriam (Percy) Urback, Sylvia (late David) Miller, Anita Sky, and many nieces and nephews residing across Canada and in the US. Sky will be deeply missed by her sons and daughters-in-law, Mark (Assunta) Rosal, Les (Jackie Lowrie) Sigal, Dan (Felena) Sigal, and by her grandchildren Justin, Sam, Joel, Giovanna, Jacob, Shameera and Saul.

Born and raised in Toronto, Sky graduated from Forest Hill Collegiate Institute in 1951, and married Saul Sigal in 1953. She graduated from the University of Toronto with a General BA in 1955, and then went on to the Ontario College of Education and completed a Teaching degree. In the early 80’s she completed a Masters of Education at Ontario Institute in Studies and Education. She taught at Forest Hill Junior High, York University and the Institute of Child Studies. Sky connected with nature through her involvements in many organizations including The Bruce Trail Conservancy, Outward Bound, BC Wildlife Federation, Young Naturalist’s of BC, the Lake Country – Walk Around Lake Country initiative, Lake Country Environment Society, as well as, enjoying biking, hiking/walking, birding, canoeing, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

Sky was a gifted photographer with a unique vision. Through her photographs she exquisitely captured nature’s beauty, as well as, documented the lives of her family and friends. Sky’s photo cards were cherished by all who had the privilege of receiving them.

During her life Sky travelled to Japan, India, Nepal, China, Singapore, Israel, and Russia and throughout Canada and the USA. In 1992 Sky moved to Okanagan Centre (Lake Country) to be near her family and enjoy her grandchildren. Sky embraced her new life and community in the Okanagan Valley becoming involved with Book Clubs, Synergy, working with the staff at Holiday Park Resort, championing the cause of Non-Violent Communication, Restorative Justice, and various other organizations. Sky particularly enjoyed attending live performances at Kelowna Actors Studio and at Creekside Theatre in Lake Country.

Sky was a gentle soul, who was accepting of everyone she encountered. She loved unconditionally, and was a powerful source of encouragement to all her friends and family. Sky touched the lives of all she met. She was a devoted grandmother, who cherished the time spent with her seven grandchildren. Sky was a lifelong learner. Her range of interests was vast and her knowledge encyclopedic. From spirituality, to health, personal growth, and the environment, Sky was a student of and fascinated by it all. In the last days of her life, Sky shared some of her thoughts. She said, “She found it easy to accept the finality of death as the natural outcome of living. She wanted those who she had encountered in life’s journey to remember her as they experienced her and she never intentionally pursued impacting others' lives. She just lived life in her own way.”

The family wishes to thank Dr. Martin for attending Sky/Mom/Baba at the Central Okanagan Hospice House. As well, the family wishes to thank the nurses, care aides, and volunteers for their care, love and attention during mom’s time of need.

A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, September 4th from 2 pm to 6 pm at Dan and Felena Sigal’s home, 11205 Maddock Avenue, Okanagan Centre (Lake Country).

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to Central Okanagan Hospice House, 2035 Ethel Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2Z6.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com 250-860-7077.

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