Eleanor Margaret McDonald
July 30, 1932-September 29, 2022
Our precious Mom, Eleanor Margaret McDonald, peacefully went home to Jesus on September 29, 2022 and is reunited with her beloved husband Allan.
Eleanor and Allan had four children, Dave (Lynda), Barb, Gord (Lise) and Colin (Anna). She was the best mother to her daughters (in law). A cherished Gramma to Kelly (Dan), Guy (Rylie), Jayme (Liz), Brendon (Amanda) Jordan (Samantha), Graeme (Katie), Megan (Sean), Brittny (Matt), Corrin (Kevin) and Kelsey (Toni). Eleanor was also the best Grammy to great grandchildren Chloe, Eden, Quinn, Alexis, Benjamin, Elijah, Augustine, Finnley, Tilly, Molly, Emily, Grace, Brooklinn, Priah, Maverick and Gabriel.
Eleanor is also survived by her dear sister Marlene Tirzits and sisters-in-laws Annette McDonald and Loretta Edlund along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Allan McDonald and her parents Walter and Ida Edlund, brothers Victor and Bob Edlund, in laws Delbert McDonald, Donald and Alice McDonald, Christine and Ted Brown, Evelyn and Harry Paul, Edna and Bud Lajeunesse and John Tirzits.
Mom was an excellent cook and baker often feeding large family gatherings at the McDonald Homestead and also for her church family at Water of Life. Mom was an avid gardener and loved canning pickles, vegetables, and horse radish with beets. Mom and Dad won the best yard in the Agricultural fair one year, well deserved which brought them many smiles and happy memories.
She was chief cook for The Rabbit Lake Drive Inn theatre for many years. She also was a cashier at the Dominion grocery store and made an impression on all who came through her till. Mom worked at King George School in the library and lunch room, always ready to give a helping hand. Eleanor loved people dearly and was passionate about being trained for Palliative Care at Pinecrest. Volunteering at the tuck shop and delivering meals on wheels with Dad filled her days with accomplishment and joy. Before she made Pinecrest her home, Eleanor was known for her homemade cookies tucked in a little bag with love and she was eager to pass them around to the residents at Pinecrest to brighten their day. She loved the personal connections she made throughout the years. Her compassion is unmatched. She would take notice when people were struggling or needing a few words of encouragement. She was quick to respond with a hug or hand squeeze. A loving caring mother and friend to all.
After retiring Mom and Dad travelled to Hawaii and Europe where they enjoyed the castles and meeting people and exploring. Mom and Dad, also enjoyed the sights and sounds of Vegas. She loved the ocean views of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia shoreline rocks and ocean waves and the beautiful Rocky Mountains of BC were amazing to her.
Mom was loved by all the staff at Pinecrest . too numerous to count by name, they are an amazing supportive crew. Each one had a special relationship with mom, taking time to chat with her or dole out hugs and kisses. Each of them grew close to her and called her Mom or Gramma and demonstrated a special love and compassion that Mom and our family appreciated. We are truly thankful and appreciate all that they did. Their commitment helped make a home for mom where she was cared for and treated as family.
In lieu of flowers, please support the charity of one’s choice including the cat shelter.
The Celebration of life for Eleanor will take place at the Super Eight Minis Hall on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at 11:00 AM with Pastor Dave McDonald officiating. All are welcome to join in the remembrance and celebration of Eleanor.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the McDonald family.