Matthew 5:8

Kaitlin Emma Boyda's life is a testimony to her faith in Jesus Christ. She was born July 13, 1993 and passed away peacefully on Thursday May 5, 2011 at seventeen years of age.

Kaitlin had a passion for the simple things in life, finding enjoyment in painting, fishing, time spent at Southern Alberta Bible Camp, family gatherings, camping and gardening. Kaitlin graduated from Immanuel Christian High School in January 2011.

Kaitlin was diagnosed in the summer of 2009 with a cancerous brain tumor at age 16 and has spent the last year and a half battling its effects. When she was approached by the Children's Wish Foundation in December 2010, she decided not to choose a wish to benefit herself, but to donate the wish to fund a well for children in need in Uganda.

When others heard of Kaitlin's generosity, they were inspired by her compassion and gave to help support other water projects in Uganda. Because of Kaitlin's inspiration, 21 water projects will be built benefitting thousands of children and families.

Kaitlin is survived by best friend and love Joel Groenenboom, her parents; Mel and Brenda Boyda, her sisters; Melanie (Clayton) Fersovitch, Olivia Boyda, and Jenianne Boyda, her brothers; Nate Boyda and Matthew Boyda, her grandparents; Verna Boyda, and Don (Moira) Watson, as well as numerous aunts and uncles and cousins; especially Kalvin and Loretta Kroker (Rebekah, Donna, and Max), Carter and Marlene Watson (Samuel and Jack). She is also survived by other loved ones; Joe and Corlene Groenenboom (Tim, Becca, Rachel, and Aaron).

A Celebration of Kaitlin's Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 7, 2011 at the EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH 4717 24 Avenue South, Lethbridge, with Pastor Ian Lawson officiating.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, donations in Kaitlin's memory may be made at www.compassion.ca/KaitlinsLegacy