KERRI MACKINNON

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KERRI MACKINNON In loving memory of our Kerri, who passed away on March 12, 2006 at the age of 25. A beautiful, vibrant spirit, she will be missed immensely and immeasurably by the numerous people whose lives she touched. Born on June 16, 1980 in Taegu, Kerri spent her first three years in South Korea, where days were spent travelling at her dad's side, swimming with her mom, and basking in the love and affection of both. From here, the MacKinnon family then moved to Leaf Rapids, MB. For the next nine years, Kerri thrived on all that the town had to offer - figure skating, skiing, dance and Brownies to name a few. Summers were the happiest of all, spent every year poolside at her grandparents' home in Massachusetts with her little sister at her side. Kerri was a true big sister, being a best friend as well as a playmate - fun, loving, and always there to provide comfort and advice. This infectious personality and generous nature also enabled her to make friends wherever she went, a trend which would only strengthen and follow her through her early years in Peabody, MA, Winnipegosis and Cross Lake. Finally arriving in Winnipeg, Kerri attended high school at Silver Heights Collegiate where she excelled academically (as she always had) and was chosen as valedictorian of her graduating class of 1997. Kerri continued on to the University of Manitoba, majoring in Microbiology. It was here where Kerri discovered her love of all things theatre related, and led to her beginnings as both an actress and director. She had vital roles, both behind the curtain and on stage, in productions of the Black Hole Theatre, the Fringe Festival and at Celebrations. As she passionately pursued acting, audiences and critics alike were always quick to praise her open and honest performances. In 2002, Kerri met Jason who proceeded to sweep her off her high-heeled feet. A year later, the two began their life together, relocating to Moncton, NB. Once again, Kerri had no trouble making new friends and she was quick to embrace all that her new life had to offer - snowstorms, lobsters and all. In 2004, Kerri and Jason made their move to Surrey, BC. A true domestic goddess, Kerri was immensely happy here - splitting her time between her life with Jason, her new group of friends, and her love of baking. She also took a great deal of pleasure in the many trips that she and Jason were able to make, the most recent being to Cuba, as she came back tanned and as gorgeous as ever. She was also greatly looking forward to becoming an aunt, with the upcoming birth of the newest member of the family. Kerri was predeceased by her father Hugh Neil MacKinnon (January 18, 2006). She leaves behind, to celebrate her life, her mother Sue, her partner Jason Hayes, her sister and best friend Maghan (Dennis), her brothers Hugh and Michael (Kat), her best friend Jackie, along with numerous relatives, a large extended family, especially Nancy and Brian Shellrude, Brian Hayes, David and Stacey Hayes and many, many friends. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 19 at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home at 4000 Portage Ave. in Winnipeg, MB at 2:00 p.m. The family will observe Shiva (a period of mourning) at their home. Guests are welcome from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., from March 19 to March 24. Flowers are gratefully declined, if family and friends so desire a donation may be made in Kerri's name to the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Canada. CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 18, 2006