It is with immense love and sadness that we announce the loss of our dear Mallery Noel Barnett, who passed away very suddenly due to complications from pneumonia at the age of 41 on May 31, 2026. She was surrounded by love and family at the time of her passing.
Left to hold her dear in their hearts are those she loved most: her devoted husband of 16 years, Bruce; her mother, Chris (Keith); her father, Don; her sister, Taryn; and her beloved fur babies. She also leaves behind a large extended family and countless cherished friends – far too many to name, but each deeply loved and important to Mal.
Born in Vernon, British Columbia, Mallery lived a life filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections. She met the love of her life, Bruce, when she was just 19 years old. Together for 26 wonderful years, they built a life rooted in friendship, devotion, and adventure. A few years ago, they celebrated their enduring love by renewing their vows in Las Vegas, creating another treasured chapter in their remarkable story together.
Mallery worked alongside Bruce at Chances Casino for many years before discovering her true calling. In recent years, she found great fulfillment as the Marketing Coordinator for the Kelowna Museums Society, where she oversaw web and social media communications. She brought creativity, passion, and enthusiasm to her work and took great pride in helping share the stories of her community.
To know Mal was to love her. She had a beautiful, contagious laugh that could light up a room and brighten even the darkest days. Kind, empathetic, and endlessly caring, she possessed a heart that seemed to have room for everyone. She embraced life with confidence and authenticity, never afraid to express her own unique sense of style. Whether she was turning heads with her rockabilly flair – earning the title of Rockabilly Pageant Queen in her thirties – or simply making those around her smile, Mal lived life unapologetically as herself.
Above all else, she loved her family beyond measure. The relationships she nurtured and the memories she created will continue to be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Though our hearts are broken by her loss, we take comfort in the love she shared so freely and the joy she brought into the world. She will be missed deeply and remembered always.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM, located at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC, with a reception to follow.
