Ali had a beautiful soul and a unique spark that touched so many people throughout her life. It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that the family announces her passing. She passed away on November 15th, 2013, at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, one day away from her 29th birthday.
She was born in Grand Forks on November 16th, 1984 to proud parents Don and Sandy Colclough and big sister Erin. As a child, she exuded a busy, happy energy. She had many friends and from very early on it was evident how creative she was.
After graduating form Grand Forks Secondary School in 2002, Ali moved to Vancouver to study at SFU. She fell in love with the theatre program there and graduated with a degree in Production Technology. She became involved in many theatre productions and companies in the Lower Mainland, and earned a reputation for being an exceptionally creative, resourceful and hard working member of the production crew.
After a few years of working in the Vancouver theatre scene, Ali decided to take a long trip to travel around Australia. She "fell in love with the continent", and ended up staying there for a year and a half. She made friends everywhere she went, and was always up for an adventure.
Upon returning from her trip to Australia, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Throughout her treatment, she was exceptionally brave and continued to live life to the fullest. She continued to travel (Mexico, Australia, India) and sought the joy of new experiences wherever she went. She believed strongly in natural medicine, and had begun going to school to become a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and acupuncturist. A born healer, Ali hoped to heal others using a natural and gentle approach.
Ali's love for adventure was such a joy and inspiration to her family and friends. She had a wonderful sense of humour that connected her with others instantly. Her laugh was infectious, and she was always encouraging others to 'lighten up', and enjoy each day as it came. She valued her friendships and family beyond measure, and was so easy to love.
A Celebration of Life will be held for all who knew and loved Ali on Saturday November 23rd at one o'clock at the Gospel Chapel in Grand Forks. Donations can be made to Inspire Health or Pines Bible Camp in her honour.
"Yet, even with serious illness, there may yet be golden days
you will never forget." -Earl A. Grollman