With great sadness we announce the passing of Marguerite Louise McDermott after a long battle with cancer. She was born in Three Mile Plains, Nova Scotia, on 20 February 1938, and was predeceased by her parents, Percy and Gladys (Woodman) Boyd, and two elder sisters Peggy Bentley (Jim), and Jean Starrat (Victor). She is survived by her remaining siblings, Vivian, Lawrence (Janet), Karen Thompson (David), Donald (Sheila), and Sheila Tracey (Darryl). She is also survived by her devoted husband of 59 years John, three sons, Timothy, Sean, and Andrew; three much loved daughters-in-law, Valerie, Brigitte, and Karin, six grandchildren whom she adored, Erin, Charles, Kasey, Andrea, Collin, and Thomas; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
After primary and secondary schooling in Three Mile Plains, and Windsor, Nova Scotia, Marguerite embarked on a Nursing Career at the Halifax Children’s Hospital. Upon graduation she continued to work in that hospital as an operating room nurse. Her Nursing career was frequently interrupted after she married John, a Naval Officer in January 1960. She had to focus her skills and her energy on the difficult role of “Military Wife”. It was a role in which she excelled. Raising children, managing the budget, shoveling snow, mowing lawns, fixing balky appliances and cars. Baseball, football, hockey, and soccer mom. She did it all.
Marguerite was an avid bridge player, was very active in water aerobics, loved winter vacations in Arizona, Florida and Mexico, and particularly enjoyed seeing the world on cruises. Above all she was a people person, who made lifelong friends easily.
The family would like to thank the many people who cared for Marguerite with so much kindness and compassion, Dr. Vincent and his palliative care compatriots, the nurses and personal support personnel from St. Elizabeth Health, and the amazing staff and volunteers at May Court Hospice who did so much to ease the final days for both Marguerite and us. We must also mention the countless messages and calls of love and support that poured in from our extended family, friends and neighbours. Until the end we read each message to her, and we are sure they brought her comfort.
A celebration of life will be held at Beechwood Cemetery on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2019, from 1 to 4 PM. A private burial will follow in the National Military Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorial contributions in Marguerite’s memory, to either the May Court Hospice at Hospice Care Ottawa; or the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, would be appreciated.McDermott
Digital Guestbook
Judy McClare
John McDermott
Dear uncle John & family, so sorry to hear of your loss of dear Aunt Rite. I haven't seen her in a good long while but will always remember her from my childhood. Our thoughts and love are with your family.
Kathleen Mongeon & Fran Dunn
Our sincere condolences to you & your family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Doug and Tina Harvey
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Marguerite. She had such a warm smile and a generous personality. You always knew when Marguerite entered the community centre. She would light up the room with her greetings and laughter! We will miss her dearly. May she Rest In Peace.
Frank and Johanne Marleau
We were saddened to hear the passing of Marguerite. You will be missed dear neighbour. RIP. Our condolences to John and family.
Chantal McDermott
Uncle John, cousins Tim, Sean and Andrew, I'm sorry that I couldn't be there today to join in the celebration of Aunt Rite's life. My condolences to the entire family. May the care and love of family and friends provide you comfort and peace. Aunt Rite will be in my thoughts today and I send love to all of you.
Claude and Sandra Choquette
Our deepest sympathies to you John and the Family. You were a great caregiver and Marguerite loved you so much. We will always share the wonderful memories especially Mexico and the secret wedding in Ottawa. Marguerite was a beautiful soul and a caring and giving person. May God bless you and the Family with courage and strength today.
John, I am so sorry for your loss, As I am new to the park I didn't know Marguerite well but the few times I had a conversation with her I realized what a remarkable person she was and wish I had more time to get to know her. RIP Marguerite.