Obituary of Heather McKenzie

Heather Patricia Dale McKenzie

Heather McKenzie, aged 67, died suddenly and tragically on February 15, 2018 while on vacation in Australia with the love of her life and husband of almost 46 years, Jim McKenzie.  Heather was born on May 25^th, 1950 to William and Sarah Gordon. She grew up in Toronto with her two sisters Barbara and Karen. Heather married her husband Jim on July 7^th 1972.  They welcomed daughters, Sarah and Kirsty in 1979 and 1982 and Heather considered Sarah's husband, Dana Stringer like a son, rather than a son-in-law.  Dana and Sarah blessed Jim and Heather with two cherished grandchildren, Violet, in 2011 and Henry, in 2013.

Heather was luminous. She lit up every room with her natural warmth, beauty, winning personality and signature laugh.  She was always looking for the silver lining and inspiring others to do the same. Heather lived a genuine, authentic and deeply generous life. She was passionate about philanthropy, travel, film, and Scrabble at which she was virtually unmatched.  She was a gifted teacher, the friend who created a circle of acceptance wide enough for all, the nurturing and loving mother, the doting grandmother and above all the best friend to Jim. He is devastated by the loss of his soulmate. 

The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME A.W. MILES – NEWBIGGING CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 2 - 4 pm and 7 – 9 pm on Friday, February 23, 2018.  A private graveside service for immediate family members will be held at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in her name to the Scott Mission, 502 Spadina Ave., Toronto, M5S 2H1.  Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.