Obituary of Cheryl McDonald

At Guelph General Hospital on Monday, September 30^th, 2024, Cheryl McDonald of Wingham, passed away peacefully at the age of 77.

Devoted wife of the late Larry McDonald who predeceased her in 2015. Loving Mom of Ardis McDonald (Arron) of Guelph and Michael & Anne-Marie McDonald-Stuart of Hamilton. Cherished sister of Maureen Cross (Peco) of Kenora and Leanne Bernaerdt (Dan) of Winnipeg and sister-in-law of Jeannette King (Doug) of Wingham.

Predeceased by her parents Charlie & Bernice (Clemmens) Hayes, parents-in-law Lorne & Jeanne McDonald and brother-in-law Greg King. Lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews (and furry grandbabies).

Cheryl (or Cher Bear/Cherie as she was affectionately referred to by many who loved her) was born in the beautiful town of Kenora and spent many of her formative years on the shores of Lake of the Woods. Cheryl would follow in her father’s footsteps and attend the University of Western Ontario. Upon graduation, Cheryl commenced her teaching career, with it having her make a few stops in towns across Ontario, until she came to Wingham to teach at F.E. Madill SS.  It is here that Cheryl met Larry and their story began, settling on 50 acres on Glenannan Rd. Two children later, Cheryl would spend many hours in local arenas watching figure skating, hockey or volunteering for a variety of community events such as the Maple Syrup Festival in Belmore.  Cheryl retired after a fulfilling teaching career and spent many of her days puttering in the gardens, reading, taking road trips with the family to the lake. Lake Huron held a special place in Cheryl’s heart, with many wonderful memories made there. An avid knitter, Cheryl created many one-of-a-kind pieces for family and friends over the years. Cheryl also enjoyed sewing and made many beautiful creations.

With Earth, Wind and Fire being one of her favourite bands, it seems fitting that we said our final goodbyes to Mom/Cheryl, on the final day of ‘September’. She was also a huge ABBA fan. They sing, “I believe in angels” and that’s one thing we always did as a family. We stayed calm and believed. Mom/Cheryl, you will be our angel for eternity and we all love you so incredibly much!

A public funeral service will be held at McBurney Funeral Home in Wingham, Ontario on Friday, November 1^st, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. followed by a private family interment at Wingham Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Diabetes Canada, Wingham District Hospital Foundation, or Guelph General Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.