LAWRENCE RODERICK MCDONALD

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LAWRENCE RODERICK MCDONALD After a courageous fight with cancer, Lawrence Roderick McDonald, 77, passed away on February 16, 2006. His final days were spent at home, in the loving care of his children. On a promise unconstrained by boundaries, Rod is now able to fulfill his commitment to Evelyn, his caring wife of 52 years, who ascended into heaven earlier this year. Born to proud parents Roderick and May McDonald in Winnipeg, MB on March 1, 1928, Rod (Buddy, to his family and friends), was the youngest and most spirited of seven children. He received his early education at St. Paul's College and later at the University of Manitoba. While attending university, Rod successfully mixed athletics and academics by playing for the Winnipeg Blue Bomber football team and graduating with an Honours Geology degree in 1953. It was also during his university years, that Rod met Evelyn Olivier. Ever the striking couple, the two were married in Winnipeg, September 25, 1954. Rod and Evelyn moved to Oakville, ON in 1958. Oakville was home for the rest of their lives and it was here where they raised their nine children. Rod's business career was spent entirely in the mining industry. It began with the rugged, but nostalgic diamond drilling industry and concluded with exploration mining. Rod retired from Cominco Limited in 1993 as the Manager of Exploration for Eastern Canada. Through the eyes, and in the minds and hearts of his nine children, Rod was a giving father. Generous and selfless, Rod made time to take an active role in his children's lives. Countless hours were spent chauffeuring, attending activities, tutoring, and providing life-practical guidance. Although Rod will always be remembered for his basement workshop, it will never be forgotten that he always remained a willing participant in the lives of his grown children. An avid reader, Rod had a special interest in history and current world affairs. He enjoyed travelling, especially if it involved family history or was in some way connected to a country's historical development. After retirement, Rod's scholarly interest in history was furthered by the numerous cruises he and Evelyn took, often to remote or off the beaten path locations. Rod's strong beliefs and convictions were always evident, and no more so than in his participation as a member of the parishes of St. Andrew's and later St. Christopher's. Rod is predeceased by his father Roderick; his mother May; his brother Allan; his sisters, May, Eileen, and Marcella; and by his wife Evelyn. He was a devoted father to Rod (Irene) of Saudi Arabia, Michelle (Paul) Abbott, Pam (Jim) of Toronto, David (Tania) of Kenora, Ian (Tina) of Lively, Lois (Bruce) of Belleville, Eileen (Tom) Karcz, Neil of Los Angeles, Mark (Rebecca) of the UK; twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is survived by his sisters, Lois Whalley and June Apchkrum of Vancouver, by his nine children, twelve grandchildren, and one grandchild. A funeral Mass is being held in Clarkson, ON on Wednesday, February 22. Arrangements entrusted to Oakview Funeral Home In lieu of any recognition, it was Rod's wish that all who knew him understand and strive to attain authentic happiness.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 18, 2006