EVELYN MARIE MCDONALD

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EVELYN MARIE MCDONALD With great sadness, we bid farewell to a loving and generous wife, mother and friend. Evelyn McDonald epitomized the term caregiver. She lived her life with an innate kindness and a genuine caring for others. Sadly, Evelyn Marie McDonald (nee Olivier) died January 11, 2006 in Oakville, ON after a short but courageous battle with colon and pancreatic cancer. She died in the arms of her loving family at home. She was a cherished and beloved mother. Evelyn was born in Winnipeg, MB. After graduating from St. Boniface School of Nursing, Evelyn enjoyed seven years crossing the country with TCA (Trans Canada Airline). Winnipeg remained home and it was there that she met and married Lawrence Rod (Bud) McDonald. After three years they settled in Oakville, ON. Over the 51 years they were married they raised nine children. As these children gradually left home, Evelyn managed to re-license herself as a Registered Nurse and reentered the workforce. The residents of Oakland's Regional Centre benefited from her caring ways for over a decade. Her authentic concern for these challenged adults was unrestrained. Evelyn then finished her career at Churchill Place. Again the residents under her care benefited from her loving nature. Throughout, Evelyn had a zest for life unmatched by those around her. Her boundless generosity of spirit touched everyone she knew and loved. She presumed the best in others. Everything about her was spontaneous and honest. Any reflection on Evelyn is sure to bring a smile to those who knew her. Tim Horton's has lost a valued customer. While family was paramount for Evelyn, she loved to travel, especially with her children. As a frequent voyager she saw much of the world. On cruises the ever practical but playful mother could often be found in the casinos, characteristically at the nickel machines. During her busy life Evelyn was a member of St. Andrew's and St. Christopher's parishes. She will be deeply missed by her husband Rod (Bud) and her children Rod (Irene) of Saudi Arabia, Michelle Abbott (Paul) of Ottawa, Pam (Jim) of Toronto, David (Tania) of Kenora, Ian (Tina) of Sudbury, Lois (Bruce) of Belleville, Eileen Karcz (Tom) of Oakville, Neil of Los Angeles, Mark (Rebecca) of the UK. She was beloved grandmother to Cheryl, Katherine, Scott, Brenda, Ryan, Andrea, Rachel, Meredith, Cameron, Lauren, Jacob and Matthew and great-grandmother to Maynard. Evelyn was predeceased by her immediate family in Winnipeg. A funeral mass for Evelyn will be held at St. Christopher's Church, Clarkson, ON on Monday, January 16 at 10:00 a.m. If desired, donations to the Diabetes Association would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Oakview Funeral Home 905-842-2252.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 14, 2006