We Remember

MCKINNON, Merna Jean

July 13, 1942 — December 22, 2025

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the loss of Merna Jean McKinnon, who passed away on December 22, 2025, at the age of 83.

Merna is lovingly remembered by her husband of 35 years, Robert “Bob”; children Robin, Tara (Kevin), and Brock (Ritsuko); grandchildren, Danielle and Kirstina; multiple great-grandchildren; and brother, Gord, and sister, Ruth. She now goes to join her son, Hale, who passed before her.

Merna lived with a steady kindness that people felt right away. She had an artist’s eye and loved to paint, always drawn to colour, detail, and things that meant something to her. Nursing was more than a career – it suited who she was: caring, capable, and quietly dependable. She gave a great deal of herself through volunteering, and she was happiest when she was involved, helping out, or simply spending time with others. Friends and family knew her as social, welcoming, and down-to-earth, someone who made people feel comfortable just by being herself.

She filled her days with things she enjoyed – curling, gardening, and cooking meals that brought people together. One of the best surprises of her life came at 50, when she met Bob through a newspaper ad, a bit of “old-school online dating” that turned into a wonderful partnership.

Loving, generous, and deeply kind, Merna leaves behind countless memories and many people who were better for knowing her. She will be greatly missed.

Family and friends will each honour Merna in their own ways. No formal service will be held.

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on the snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you waken in the morning’s hush,
I am the gentle uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.

– Immortality” by Clare Harner, published in 1934

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