Obituary of Mary Louise McDonell

MARY LOUISE McDONELL

(nee NEWTON)

Surrounded by her family Mary died in peace at Markham Stouffville Hospital on May 4, 2019.   Born in Toronto September 5, 1939 to John and Josephine Newton, married for 58 years and survived by her devoted husband Robert Joseph McDonell and their beloved children Anne Marie Wilson (Ron), Joanne McDonell, Patricia Perek (John) and Robert John McDonell.  Loving grandmother to Sam, Catherine and Samantha and great-grandchild Oliver.   Mary treasured and fostered a close relationship with her siblings and their families -  Rita (David Whall), Elizabeth (Robert Dolan), William (Cathie), Joseph (Shirley) and John.   Mary was also blessed with the warm regard of numerous nieces, nephews and cousins of the extended McDonell, Newton and Schwalm families.

Mary’s life was one animated by her faith, friends, family and fun.  Mary and Bob were active participants in both church and community voluntary and charitable activities in their communities (Don Mills, North York,  Richmond Hill, Port Perry and Markham).  Over the years Mary was an enthusiastic hostess to many dinners  and  parties with friends and extended family, which showcased her considerable culinary talents.  She loved summers in Muskoka, winters in Florida, and travel through Europe and Canada.  She read constantly, enjoyed theatre, music, fine art, sports events and singing in the church choir.  Mary treasured a good conversation, typically forming and expressing a firm opinion, usually with disarming wit.  She was absolutely cherished by many life-long friends who, along with her family, will now and forever miss her dynamic presence and the warmth of her big heart.  She is now with God.

Visitation will be held on Thursday May 9^th 2019 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the Dixon-Garland Funeral Home, located at 166 Main Street North (Markham Rd), Markham.  The funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church on Friday May 10th at 10am, located at  5633 Highway 7, Markham ON.  A reception will follow at Christ the King Cemetery (reception hall), Markham