Obituary of Mary McDonnell

McDonnell: Mary Frances (née Lacina) -

A resident of Chatham, Mary McDonnell passed away at Copper Terrace Long Term Care Home on February 10, 2025 at the young age of 103.

Born in Vnorovy, Czechoslovakia Mary was the daughter of the late Frank and Francis (née Brecka) Lacina.

Mary was married to Frank Bartosek (Deceased 1968) for 27 years, and she remarried Donald McDonnell (Deceased 2000).

Mother to Nancy Gagnon (Norman) and Joanne Bartosek.

Grandmother to Suzette Devolder (Ralph), Steven Gagnon (Grace) and Sheri Millsum (John O' Rourke), along with several grand cats and chickens.

Great Grandmother to Clare, Seavers, Spencer and Rachel.

Survived by sister Emilie Otrhalek and predeceased by siblings Stan Lacina and Lillian Palanek.

Mary was a remarkable woman who selflessly loved and cared for her family and was a huge part of her community. She was the last Surviving founding member of the Active Lifestyle Centre here in Chatham. Mary helped open the Active Lifestyle Centre in 1970 and worked tirelessly there until she was 96 years old.

The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the staff at Copper Terrace for their devoted passion, care and support. Mary considered them her second family.

Friends to be received on Friday February 21, 2025, at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 3:00pm - 5:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on February 22, 2025 at 10:00am at Blessed Sacrament 145 Victoria Ave, Chatham.

Donations made in memory of Mary to the Canadian National Institute For The Blind or The Active Lifestyle Centre would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040