June Elizabeth Bianchini

On Easter morning, April 9, and after a long battle with cancer, June Bianchini (maiden name: McNabb) passed away peacefully at home with her husband by her side. June was born in Climax, Saskatchewan and moved to Swift Current where she finished her high school. She completed her RN training in Regina at the Grey Nun’s Hospital and immediately started her career at the Kamloops Royal Inland Hospital Neuro Unit. In 1979 she relocated to Kelowna General Hospital and nursed on a few wards, including recovery and eventually moved to the KGH chemotherapy unit. In 1998 Kelowna’s new Cancer Center of the Southern Interior opened and June moved into the new center as head nurse, later switching to radiation where she remained throughout her career and was instrumental in starting the revolutionary brachytherapy program. She retired from the job she loved so much in October 2014. June was a true nurse, in all aspects, as she cared for her patients as much as she did about all of her colleagues. Anyone who knew her, worked with her or even met her can attest to the love she so freely shared to all she came in contact with.

In 1980 she met Dave Bianchini and they married on October 10, 1981. Their love for each was easily observed by the people they met and knew over the next 42 years of their lives together. In 1983 they welcomed Tricia Jill and 3 years later Sean David came into the world. Her love for her children was never ending and she played a huge part in both their lives whether it be as the president of the dance association her daughter belonged to or the team mom/nurse with the cowbell at the hockey arena for all of Sean’s games. As life went on June developed a zest for pretty clothes, shoes, watches and reading glasses…all of which had to match when worn together! June loved traveling, bike riding, the ocean, camping, Canada Day, Christmastime and celebrating all other special days. Most of all she loved visiting friends, especially at their home in Mesa or here in Kelowna. She had the gift of a beautiful smile for anyone she met.

Dave bought her a sign, prominently displayed in their home, that read “I thought I had it all. Then I became a Nana.” No better words were ever spoken, as she was gifted with 3 wonderful grandchildren. She loved them with all her heart and her wish to see them all together came true shortly before she passed away.

In September of 2021, June was diagnosed with cancer and the weeks, months and years ahead were not easy. However, her never failing smile was always with her when she returned to the place and people she loved at the cancer center; even if it meant that this time she was on the other side of the fence. Her treatments were made just a little bit easier because of all the love that she received from everyone at the center. Special Thank You to June’s family doctor, Dr. Kolkind and to her oncologists, Dr. Rao and Dr. Petrik. As well a special Thank You to all the support staff who cared for and visited with her while she was at the center.

June was predeceased by her brother (Dick), Father (William) and Mother (Joan). She is survived by her soulmate and loving husband Dave, daughter Tricia (Brock), granddaughters, Lucy Kokomo and Iris Joan; son Sean (Sarah), grandson, Beau William; Brother Bill (Sue); Sister-in-law Kiffy and many nephews and nieces.

She will be greatly missed by her family, many close friends who she also called family and by everyone else whose heart she touched. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made in Junes name for the new Systemic Therapy Suite by clicking on the following link: http://donate.bccancerfoundation.com/goto/JuneBianchini