It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Mother and Nana, Geneva Mae MacDonald, at Thompson House in Toronto, after an eight-year struggle with dementia that had stolen so much of her from her family.
Known affectionately by the family as Nevie, Geneva is survived by her daughter Wendy, son-in-law Robert Johnston, her adored granddaughters Ashley Johnston (Vito Sacchetti) and Lauren Karthaus (Thomas), and her three cherished great-grandchildren, Laila, Hayden and Trey. She is also survived by her sisters, Shirley Crouse (Reg) and Dianna Giannone (Joe), as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.
She is now reunited with her beloved mother, Dora, and her sisters Ruth, Beverly and Susie.
Geneva was born in Nova Scotia and moved to Toronto in 1960. Her early life was not always easy, but she persevered and worked hard to build a good life for herself and her family. She was a very caring and devoted mother, and her family was always at the centre of her life. She was the light that brightened every room she entered.
Geneva worked for the Canadian Government for more than 30 years. She also held part-time jobs at Dominion and sold Avon products for many years. She was never afraid of hard work and always found a way to contribute and provide for her family.
But it was as a grandmother that Geneva truly shone. She was the epitome of the best grandmother anyone could wish for. She deeply loved “her girls” and was always happy to babysit whenever she was asked. She treasured her time with Ashley and Lauren, taking them on adventures to Edwards Gardens, to parks to play, and on the occasional very special “chicken nugget run.” Those simple adventures became treasured memories that will live on.
Geneva also had an extraordinary green thumb. She seemed able to bring almost any dying—or even seemingly dead—plant back to life and make it flourish. Her gardening pride was her many planters, filled each summer with colourful geraniums and nasturtiums that she lovingly nurtured. Like the flowers she so lovingly brought back to life, her love will continue to bloom in all who knew her.
And then there were the Toronto Blue Jays. Geneva was a devoted fan and never missed a televised game. Watching the Jays was one of her favourite pastimes, and she faithfully followed the team season after season. It was one of those simple pleasures that brought her great enjoyment.
Though dementia took so much from her, it could never diminish the beautiful legacy she leaves behind: a family deeply loved, a garden of memories, and hearts forever changed by her presence. She will be missed beyond words.
A private ceremony will be held in Geneva's honour for family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Thompson House where she was expertly cared for, for the last five years.