Obituary of Dana Marie Hajpel

It is with deep sadness and much love that we announce the peaceful passing of Dana Hajpel on September 1, 2026, surrounded by her soulmate and family.

Dana was born on August 6, 1968, in Sudbury, Ontario. At six months old, she was lovingly adopted by Bruce William Little and Mary-Jane Little (Brooks), becoming part of the Little family.

Family was at the very heart of Dana’s life. Her family story was unique, but she never believed that family was defined simply by blood. To Dana, family was family. She loved the people who shared her life and embraced family in all its forms.

Dana is survived by her beloved soulmate and life partner, Brent Melvin, with whom she shared a remarkable 16-year love story. Their story began many years earlier, when they attended public school together, before life took them in different directions. Years later, their paths crossed again, and they found in one another a love that felt meant to be. They spent every available minute of those 16 years together and often felt that a greater power had brought them back into each other’s lives. They could seemingly read each other’s minds, finish each other’s sentences and simply enjoy being together. Dana would often say, “I found a good one,” and she truly felt lucky to have Brent in her life.

Dana will be lovingly remembered by her children, Heidi and Josh (Sarah), whom Dana spoke of often and with great love. She always greeted them with a smile, a hug and an “I love you”; Cory (Melody); and her grandchildren, John, Layla and Nadia. Her children and grandchildren were precious to her, and she treasured the laughter, love, memories and lessons they brought into her life.

She is also survived by her brothers, Duaigne (Sandra), Devin (Debbie), Durwood and Craig (Sandra), along with their families; sister-in-law Linda Melvin; Gayle (Brian) Sturgeon and family; brother-in-law Ralph Melvin Jr.; Doug Marsh and family; and Wayne Marsh. Dana’s extended family included many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom were part of the large circle of people she considered family. Among those special relationships were Jake, Travis (Allison), Zack and Deven, as well as her nieces Michelle, Jenn and Karen (Bill), who shared many family gatherings and outings with Dana and always managed to keep her on her toes.

Aunt Judy and Dana had a special connection. Dana and Judy shared long phone conversations and wonderful dinner dates. They exchanged letters containing jokes, always bringing many smiles—a tradition started by her dad, Bill.

Dana’s working years at Opee Chee and Parkwood Institute brought her many friendships, some of which grew into lifelong connections. Friends were an important part of Dana’s world, and she had a wonderful ability to turn ordinary moments into traditions, adventures and lasting memories.

Dana loved camping, road trips, day trips, thrifting and music—especially the music of the ’80s. Bagpipes always brought her joy, as did travelling to places that interested her, including Texas and Las Vegas. She was passionate about antique hunting, always looking for a nostalgic piece or a wooden furniture piece to bring home. Dana loved gardens, although she was much happier admiring them than tending to them herself. She collected miniature creations and enjoyed crafting, especially for the social connection and time spent with others.

Dana carried her childhood love of baseball throughout her life. She followed the Blue Jays, as well as hockey, including the London Knights and Maple Leafs. Dana never gave up hope on the Leafs, while also keeping an eye on other favourite teams and players. We are sure she could rhyme off the stats of many of her favourite players. Dana enjoyed anything that brought out her playful and competitive side. She loved cards, particularly when there was a jackpot to be won, and enjoyed Bingo and the occasional casino adventure. Cornhole tournaments, the Breakfast Club and outings with friends were among the many activities that brought her happiness. She also had a wonderful habit of giving people and groups their own special nicknames.

Among the many people who were special to Dana were cousins who became close friends: Gary (Patti), Al (Anne) and Ron (Kim), along with so many other dear cousins. Her circle of special friends included Nelson (Terry), Shirley (Mike and family), Sherri (Rick), Betty and friends, John, Heather, Lisa, Jack, Paul, Kevin, Cindy, Kevin and Adrienne, as well as many others who shared laughter, adventures and treasured memories with her.

No story of Dana’s home would be complete without mentioning Sid, her beloved tuxedo cat. Dana adored him and happily allowed him to rule the roost.

Dana also connected with members of the Puckrin family and was fortunate to build relationships with several aunts, uncles and cousins. These connections became a meaningful part of her life, including her special relationships with Aunt Lynda Davis and family, Aunt Dianne Hooker (Gord), Uncle Roy Puckrin (Marilyn), Uncle Keith Puckrin (Diane) and other treasured family members.

Dana leaves behind much more than memories. She leaves behind laughter around the table, games played with family and friends, road trips, nicknames, little treasures, crafts, music, friendly competition and countless moments of simply being together.

Most of all, Dana leaves behind the example of a woman who understood that family was not about perfection, circumstances or simply sharing the same blood. Family was about love, connection, loyalty and the people who showed up for one another.

Dana will be deeply missed by Brent, her children, grandchildren, brothers, extended family and the many friends who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

She was predeceased by many wonderful family members and friends, whom we remember and send our love to at this time.

Dana’s journey was filled with many chapters and many kinds of love. She found joy in people, adventure in the everyday and family wherever her heart found a home.

May she now rest peacefully, surrounded by the love she gave so freely in life.

We would like to thank all those who offered support through visits, meals, calls, messages, words of guidance, prayers, flowers and love.

Thank you to the nurses and doctors at Parkwood Institute, as well as the past coworkers who continue to work there and made special visits to Dana. A special thank you to Jill Kennedy, who gave us the gift of song in a beautiful, memorable way through her music therapy.

We also want to acknowledge the many people Dana knew, admired and held close throughout her life. Her circle was wide and woven through family, friendships, work, community and shared interests. If we have unintentionally missed anyone, please know that it was never from a lack of love or appreciation. Dana’s life touched more people than could ever be fully named, and each person who shared time, laughter, kindness or memories with her was part of the remarkable web of love she leaves behind.

A celebration of Dana’s life will be held at the:

German Canadian Club on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m., located at 1 Cove Road, London, Ontario, N6J 1H7.

There will be a light lunch and cash bar available. There will be a private interment at a later date.