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Brenda Schultz

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BRENDA JOY SCHULTZ

(née Carmichael)

January 10, 1963 – October 3, 2025

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Brenda Joy Schultz (Carmichael), at home with her family on October 3, 2025, aged 62. She fought a heroic battle against glioblastoma for close to three years and faced the illness with unwavering determination and a spirit that never gave up.


Born in Portage La Prairie on January 10, 1963, Brenda attended Sturgeon Creek High School where she developed friendships that were a great source of support and comfort throughout her life. She graduated in 1981 and went on to attend the Laboratory Technology program at Red River Community College, graduating in 1983. She began her professional career at Hollenberg Clinic and in 1985 moved to the Health Sciences Centre, where she worked until her retirement in 2018, with her final years in the HSC Transplant Lab. She continued to work in the medical field after retirement administering COVID-19 vaccinations in 2021 – 2022 and working as a Standardized Patient at the Clinical Learning and Simulation Facility where she assisted with the training of the next generation of health care providers.


Brenda met the love of her life Doug Schultz in 1982. They married on June 13, 1987, beginning a love story that spanned 38 years. Over the years, they filled their home with the laughter of their children, Josh and Cara, and the woofs and whines of dogs; Duffy, Huey, Bella, and Oakley.


Brenda was graced with an enviable ability to stay calm under pressure. She would turn a cheek, never speaking ill of anyone; however, this was not to be mistaken as weakness. She was a fierce defender of those she loved. From protecting her little brother from a childhood bully, to guiding her children through their life’s experiences and toughest obstacles, and finally to fighting cancer, Brenda was the epitome of strength.


Brenda loved to travel with her family and enjoyed numerous trips to Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Honduras. Yet, some of the fondest memories were from frequent trips across the border to Grand Forks and Fargo for a weekend of Target, Gordmans, Hobby Lobby, T.J. Maxx, and of course a stop at Happy Harry’s.


With her trusted Shih Tzu companion Bella by her side, Brenda spent every Sunday afternoon with her sister, Sharyl at her mom’s house. Together the three would solve life’s trickiest problems, only to have to crack a few more the following weekend.


Fearless to the core, Brenda had bucket loads of courage. When no one else was brave enough to ride the roller coasters with Josh at Valley Fair, Brenda didn’t balk. She rode every single one—some even twice—including the stomach-churning, rickety wooden, High Roller.


Not only was Brenda mentally strong, but her physical strength was unmatched, as she took her physical health very seriously. Though extremely modest about her capabilities, Brenda was able to do it all. She excelled at 5:00 a.m. boot camps, CrossFit, and competed in the CrossFit games. She lifted weights, ran 5 half marathons, danced, cross country skied, practiced yoga, and took daily 6-8 km walks. Rain or shine, +40 to -40 degrees, morning walks were her favourite way to start the day.


People were drawn to Brenda’s caring nature and sense of adventure, and she made many cherished friendships. Her gym friends, “The Sassy Bitches” included, Catherine, Susan, and Tracy. Led by Lorna, “The Rowdies Bucket List” is a group of fun-filled ladies who have gone on exciting and often outrageous adventures, including puppy yoga, zip lining, and pole dancing. Unforgettable memories were made with childhood friends, Lisa and Rowena on their numerous trips to the Ozarks, where the days were filled with swimming, jet skiing, and endless laughter. And longtime friends, Dave and Colleen, whose friendship strengthened as they watched each other’s children grow up, rooting for each other as life’s challenges arose.

She was particularly proud of playing a part in helping Manitobans get through the COVID pandemic by joining a team of health care professionals who administered the vaccine to over a million people across the province. As much as she loved traveling to Ashern, Falcon Lake, and Thompson, working at the Ma Mawi Wi clinic held a special place in Brenda’s heart.


But above all else, raising Joshua and Cara was the highlight of her life. She gave the most profound advice and always encouraged her children to do their very best. She was the strongest role model and mother to look up to. Brenda loved being a mom and embraced every moment spent with her children. She loved getting dressed up and going to Pineridge Hollow or to a Farmers’ Market; snuggling up for Christmas movie marathons; making seasonal treats; sharing the title of “Queen of the Charcuterie Boards” with her daughter; and when the kids were young, reading Harry Potter every night before bed. She proudly celebrated with Josh when he purchased his first house last year, and with Cara at her wedding with Tanner in September.


She believed that volunteering was an important way to support others and Brenda enjoyed her time with the HSC Wellness Centre.


Brenda will be lovingly remembered by her husband Doug Schultz; children, Joshua Schultz and Cara Peters (Tanner); mother Loretta Carmichael; mother-in-law Audrey Schultz; siblings, Sharyl Eaglesham (Bob) and Drew Carmichael (Jodi); nieces, Emma and Sarah; sister-in law Donna Surgenor (Dwight); nephew Devon, and niece Dayna (Klay).


She was pre-deceased by her father Jack Carmichael; nephew Mark Teague; and father-in-law Benjamin Schultz.


Brenda met everyone with kindness and so many friends and past co-workers have reached out with love and support. The family would like to thank you all and let you know how much that mattered to Brenda. Our gratitude to her neurosurgeon, Dr. Joseph Silvagio and the entire oncology team at Health Sciences Centre. We deeply appreciate your willingness to fight as hard for Brenda as she fought for herself. To the team of palliative care nurses—your knowledge and empathy eased Brenda’s discomfort and helped our family navigate those final weeks. Finally, to Shane at Ethical Death Care, your empathetic assistance alleviated the pressure of making so many important decisions.


She was a loving daughter, wife, and mother. A true friend, the finest sister, and could truly make a house a home and make every guest feel welcome.


Thank you Brenda, 

for touching our lives 

and for the strength 

you left behind.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Bob Lees

November 20, 2025 at 7:37 AM

Very sorry for your loss Doug. Condolences to you and your family.

Tracey and Gary Jaworski

November 10, 2025 at 8:01 PM

We are so sorry for your loss. Please hug your kids, and take care of each other. Brenda was beautiful inside and out.

Tammy Walker

November 10, 2025 at 7:44 PM

Doug, I have just heard this sad news today. My condolences to you and your family.

Carl Fitzhenry

November 5, 2025 at 3:12 PM

Doug and family. I heard yesterday that Brenda had passed. I'm very sorry for your loss. She was a good person and will be missed by all that knew her.

Denis Marion

November 4, 2025 at 8:51 PM

My deepest sympathies during your time of loss, my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time

Denise, Rhonda, Kendra and Dawn

October 23, 2025 at 4:16 PM

What a lovely tribute to Brenda. It is a true reflection of her beautiful spirit. She brightened our workdays with her heartfelt stories of Cara, Joshua and her beloved dogs. May your cherished memories bring you peace and comfort in these difficult days.

Laurie Lipinski

October 23, 2025 at 6:28 AM

Doug and All

My deepest condolences on the passing of Brenda. 🙏❤️

 

Laurie (Tackaberry) formerly of 26 Sayer Ave and sister of Brenda's friend Lisa.

Brian Gmiterek

October 22, 2025 at 10:09 PM

Doug and family, sincere condolences on your loss. I worked with Brenda at the HSC Chemistry lab during her tenure there. Losing her was not only a great loss to your family but to the entire laboratory "family" she worked with. We all enjoyed working with her as she she was always cheerful and positive. Some of us also curled with Brenda with HSC curling league. She will be missed, but never forgotten. May she Rest In Peace.

 

Helen

October 21, 2025 at 6:40 AM

I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. Mrs. Carmichael you couldn't have picked a better middle name for Brenda as she brought joy everywhere she went. I was very fortunate to have worked many years with Brenda enjoying her smart wit and company. She will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.

Chuck and Danna

October 20, 2025 at 6:09 PM

to you and your family Danna and I are so sorry for your loss. May God bless you and comfort you and your family. We will miss her dearly.

Willie & Diana Laidlaw

October 20, 2025 at 9:46 AM

Heartbreaking. Sincere condolences to Doug, Cara, Josh and other family members and friends on the loss of a very special person. Brenda was a fantastic co-worker who made the work day more enjoyable with her infectious cheeriness and positivity. May she rest easy 💔

Wendy

October 19, 2025 at 8:19 PM

My condolences to Brenda's family on this huge loss. Her infectious smile and love of life will be remembered And cherished.

Doug Black

October 19, 2025 at 1:26 PM

Condolences to the friends and family. We Black family knew Brenda and the family as we were members of the church.

Linda & Peter

October 19, 2025 at 11:06 AM

heartfelt condolences at this sad time

- wishing you comfort from the love that surrounds you and the memories you shared - hugs

Melissa D

October 19, 2025 at 10:54 AM

There are only a handful of people you meet in life who make an impact or truly inspire you and Brenda was one of them. Always positive no matter what was happening and constantly encourged those around her. Our constant love of pumpkin spice season, early morning talks before work started and the beautifully written santa notes she did for my kids each year are some of my favorite memories of Brenda. She truly was one of a kind. My sympathies and condolescences to Cara, Doug and Josh.

Bev Reske

October 19, 2025 at 12:21 AM

My deepest condolescences to you Doug and your family.

Jackie Down

October 18, 2025 at 8:52 PM

My condolences to u and your family Doug.

Pensy Chan

October 18, 2025 at 3:43 PM

My condolences to you and your family Doug.

Willie

October 18, 2025 at 3:29 PM

Sorry to hear about Brenda. Thinking of you and the family.

Earl Toews

October 18, 2025 at 3:10 PM

Sincerest condolences to you and your family on your dear wife's passing.

I hope the sad part passes quickly and you're left with only the fondest memories of a life well lived.

Doris

October 18, 2025 at 2:49 PM

A great cowkr and a friend from the Immunization Clinic. Such a wonderful person to everyone and everybody. She always had a smile or a joke to pass on to make us laugh. Our vaccination team was indeed very fortunate to meet such a special person.

She will be surely missed.....

Doris and other nurses from the Immunization COVID Team.

Jodi Meadows

October 18, 2025 at 2:16 PM

Brenda was such a beautiful person inside and out. I cherish my memories of her and the fun times together during our younger years. Sending comforting and healing thoughts to the family. Take care of each other during this difficult time.

Jim Schultz

October 18, 2025 at 12:01 PM

Doug, I am so heart broken at your loss!

jim schultz

Sandra Bencharski

October 18, 2025 at 11:54 AM

Doug, so sorry for your loss! Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

Lorna Pankratz

October 18, 2025 at 10:53 AM

Brenda had the biggest smile and the kindest heart in our Rowdies Bucket List group and our Little Dog Group. She also was a marvel at volunteering at the HSC Relaxation Centre. She was a treat to have the grace of her presence. At a time when others wouldn't have the strength or spirit, she contributed her time and compassion towards others. When she shared stories about her children, Doug and her family, it was with pride and love. Gone too soon but will never be forgotten.

Dale and Lynn Checkley

October 18, 2025 at 10:25 AM

Heartfelt thoughts to Family Schultz & Friends. What a beautiful tribute to Brenda. So very sorry.

Jeff and Tracy Cassie

October 18, 2025 at 10:13 AM

We met Brenda and Doug on a trip to Dominican Republic years ago. We became fast friends and travelled with them again! Brenda was the sweetest, most gentle and caring person. Her love for Doug, Josh and Cara shone through in everything she did. I remember one trip when Cara was sick...Brenda stayed in the room with her the entire time. Cara likely could have stayed alone but Brenda cared too much to let that happen!

Doug, Josh and Cara, please accept our deepest condolences. Sending you hugs and our thoughts and prayers.

Jeannette and Bill Cairns

October 18, 2025 at 9:37 AM

Our sincere condolences and regrets go out to Doug and the family. Brenda was a lady whose beautiful exterior hid an ability to beat you up at will. An experience to be remembered.

Gary Bergal

October 18, 2025 at 9:06 AM

So sorry to hear of Brenda's passing. Very fond memories of long ago camping with Brendarella and Doug. Such a lovely and kind person.

Donna

October 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

I can't believe I have to write my thoughts to you today. I loved your zest for life .. your love for family and your inspiration for life. You were someone I looked up to and loved.. my heart breaks to have to say goodby. My only wish is you are free of pain but know you become the best Angel ever. I miss miss you so much❤️. Till me meet again my dear sister ❤️ Love Donna 💔

Lisa Carriere

October 17, 2025 at 8:14 AM

It was an honour and a joy to have Brenda as a friend. She was a beautiful soul. Sending love and strength to Doug, Cara, Tanner, and Josh. ❤️

Rick Jobse

October 17, 2025 at 8:09 AM

Brenda was truly one of a kind. Deepest condolences to Doug and the rest of the family. Keep the memories close.

Barb and Marcel Gysel

October 16, 2025 at 3:42 PM

Our condolences to Doug and family. Brenda was a beautiful friend to have in your life, I honoured to have known her. She will be missed

Rowena Crosbie

October 16, 2025 at 2:13 PM

A beautiful tribute to a life well lived. Brenda will be missed and will live in our hearts forever.

Theresa, Ken and LeeAnn Carmichael

October 16, 2025 at 2:05 PM

Doug and family, our deepest condolences to the Schulz and Carmichael families. Brenda was a kind and loving person and we enjoyed her company at family gatherings. We will dearly miss her.

Janet Desautels

October 16, 2025 at 12:34 PM

Brenda was a beautiful person inside and out. She will be missed by so many. Condolences to the family

Catherine O'Dowda and family.

October 16, 2025 at 12:20 PM

Beautiful words for a beautiful friend. So honoured to be part of Brenda's life. May she be resting and at peace. A beautiful angel. My condolences to the Schultz family. May all of you find peace. ☮️

Moira Sarahs

October 16, 2025 at 11:41 AM

She will be missed by so many!!

Love you my friend and hugs to all your family.

Dave & Colleen

October 16, 2025 at 11:13 AM

No truer words have been written. Brenda will forever be a part of our lives as we reflect on our adventure squad memories. Love to Brenda's family.

 

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