MELANIE MCKENNA

1951 - 2024

It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Melanie McKenna (nee Ross) after an extremely hard-fought battle with colorectal cancer. She passed away on November 6, 2024 in McCausland Hospital, Terrace Bay, surrounded by her loving family. Mel fought with dignity and grace for 4 years, never complaining or losing her sense of humour. She left on her terms. Mel was born April 28, 1951 and lived in Schreiber all of her life except for when she went to the University of Ottawa and graduated as a Registered Dietitian. Her first job was at the Winnipeg Health and Science Centre. While living in Winnipeg she met the true love of her life Patrick McKenna on a blind date in Schreiber. They have been inseparable since then. A dietitian position came up at McCausland Hospital in Terrace Bay and Mel applied and was hired. She was now close to her true love Pat. Mel was highly respected as the dietitian, a job she loved. Her clients all spoke highly of her. She served as president of the College of Dietitians for 2 years. Mel and Pat were married for 37 years. They loved to travel, Las Vegas being their favourite destination. As a couple they had been there 32 times. Mel was very much a people person but her family was always top priority. They loved to be surrounded by family and their family dinners always had an abundance of love, great food and laughter. Her signature laugh will definitely be missed. Mel is survived by her devoted, loving husband Pat, who is beyond heartbroken. She is also survived by her sister Charlotte (Andy) Miller. The two of them had a very close bond. They were inseparable best friends. Also surviving are special nephews and nieces and their families. She had a special bond with her cousin Alison, who was like a daughter to her. Alison's daughter Danielle was Mel's pride and joy. She was like her own. The many cousins in the family held a special place in Mel's heart with several being very close to Mel. She is predeceased by parents Elsie and Neil Ross, in-laws Nean and Frank McKenna, grandparents, aunts, uncles and brother-in-law. Her fur babies Casey and Nibby will be happy to see her again. There will be a Celebration of Life on Friday, November 15, 2024 at 1:00PM at the Schreiber Recreation Complex. If anyone wishes, donations can be made to the Furget-Me-Not Animal Shelter or a Charity of Your Choice. Mel was our hero. She fought till she couldn't fight anymore. She is now at peace watching over us. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to: all of our family and friends who have been on this difficult journey with us, offering your love and support unconditionally; to Doctors Faghih, Ramchandar, Simpson, Ward, Rushton, Orantia, and Sue McConnell NP; and to the staff at McCausland Hospital for their amazing care and understanding. A special thank you to nurses Elizabeth and Julia for their professionalism, care and friendship. Mel's whole medical team was the best and she thought highly of them. Most of all, we are forever grateful to Charlotte for being here for us every step of the way, through all travels, appointments, bringing meals, running errands, etc. you have been our rock and the best sister anyone could ever have.

Gone from our sight; But never from our hearts.