Interim Entombment
February 20, 1991 – March 3, 2026
The family of Avril Pickard is sad to announce her sudden passing on March 3,2026, when she succumbed to complications from long-standing health issues. She is predeceased by her husband Jason Chalmers, her infant daughter Grace, and her parents, William and Allanna.
She is missed by the lights of her life, her two sons Marshall and Cory; her sister Amy (Mike); her nephew Connor; her Aunts Kathleen(Larry) and Denise; her cousins Tanya, Mark, and Tim; her extended family in Manitoba and overseas; her boyfriend Aaron; her supportive friend Terri; and all her other friends and Jason’s extended family.
Avril was born on February 20, 1991 in Winnipeg, MB, and grew up in Garson, MB. She graduated from Beausejour High School and went on to start a family with Jason. She moved to Swan River, MB, Jason’s hometown, where she has been raising her sons.
Avril is remembered for her stubborn and fiercely independent spirit as well as her compassion, kindness, and the joy she found in the simple things in life. She always loved animals, growing up with cats and dogs and even sneaking home a bunny from the Beausejour Rodeo. She wanted everyone to have a home, whether furred or scaled. While her later health prevented her from employment outside the home, she worked hard to create a loving and welcoming home for her boys, Marshall and Cory. Her family warmly remembers her sassy attitude, which she used to keep things light even when facing the hardest moments. She was generous with her love, sharing the bounty of her small garden with those around her and spreading the joy of all things growing.
The family thanks the staff at HSC MICU and IICU for their positive support and attentive care.
Funeral Mass was held at St. Gianna Beretta Molla Church on March 10, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Animal Alliance or Manitoba Harvest in support of Celiac (Gluten Free) food hampers, or your local animal shelter or food bank, mental health support, or Liver Canada.
Talk to your loved ones about organ donation. It may save a life.