Donald Wilkins Donna Kennie Memorial Bursaries (pdf)

Donald Wilkins Donna Kennie Memorial Bursaries (pdf)

(click for printable pdf form above)

SISTER DONNA JEAN KENNIE

Donna was 60 years old at her sudden death, the mother of three children and grandmother of 6 grandchildren
Donna was a hard-working, caring person who went that extra mile whether at work or at home. As a union representative, she enjoyed helping others and was dedicated to making things better for others.
Donna came into the union many years ago and members can attest to her dedication as their voice and someone to hear their concerns.
Donna held many position with the union as a shop steward, trustee and treasurer to mention a few. With each position she held, Donna went above and beyond the call of duty.
Donna was an important part of the E.F.A.P program as well as the Scholarship program and the E.A.S.T. program. Donna involved herself in the Women’s Equity Committee and was committed to ensuring that women had a voice.
Donna enjoyed life and was well loved by everyone who knew her. She was a good friend and she greeted everyone with a smile and a warm heart. Donna was the true meaning of a union activist and friend.

Brother Donald Wilkins

Donald Wilkins was a hard worker and devoted employee; Don began working at the hospital in May of 1957 as a cleaner in the kitchen. In July of 1966, he was promoted to a Utility Worker 2 and in April of 1971, he became a Storekeeper 2 for Dietary Stores.
Don was a dedicated man who was humorous, full of vitality and, if necessary, aggressive. Don had many friends and was well known and respected throughout the hospital.
In addition to his work, he took on much responsibility. He was involved with the Union for 24 years. Don was President of CUPE Local 813 from January 1977 to December 1981. Long before becoming president, he held such positions as Shop Steward (20 years), Trustee and Chief Shop Steward as well as serving on various committees.
In 1982, Don was elected General Vice-President of the New Brunswick Council of Hospital Unions (CUPE Local 1252), in which he was on the negotiation team representing his colleagues in the hospitals. At the time of his death in May 1984, he was still General Vice-President of CUPE Local 1252 and Shop Steward of Local 813.
Don was married to Carol who was also a member of Local 813, working in the Dietary Department, of then the General Hospital located in Saint John. They have five children, Thomas, Christine, Deborah, Deanna, and Jason.
Don left behind a legacy of achievements and was an example of how each of us might best utilize our time and efforts to make a mark in this world with all of its stresses and pressures.