Cecilia Katherine (Hynes) McKinnon
April 8, 2020
Obituary
Wife, mother, grandmother, baker, knitter, bridge player, community volunteer, woman of faith
Born February 22, 1923 in Ferryland. Passed peacefully away on April 8, 2020 at her residence. Aged 97
She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilfred (2005), infant son Michael, sons, Stephen (1982) and David (2014). Brothers: Howard, Vincent, Clarence, Ernie, Thomas, and Peter Hynes and sister, Marie Cleary.
Left with a lifetime of memories to cherish are daughter Heather, sons Brian (Adele Rosenbloom) Toronto, Kenneth (Christine Molloy), Ian (Rhonda), adored grandchildren Stephen, Jesse, Erin, Colin, Jennifer, Erica and Ella, cherished daughter in law Sharon Tiller and elder siblings Aiden Hynes (Edna) and Rita Maddock. She also leaves special family members Elroy Hynes(Maureen) and family, sisters in law Veronica Hynes (Ferryland), Delories MacKinnon(Sydney, NS) Freddie MacKinnon(Phoenix, AZ) and Alberta MacKinnon(Toronto) and a large circle of nieces and nephews of the Hynes family and Mc/MacKinnon clan of Sydney NS.
Like many women of her generation who did not work outside the home, mom used her God given talents for the power of good. Mornings would find her in the kitchen baking for her children and their friends, and also for the many charity bake sales who would request her much sought after baked goods. In the background was her constant companion, CBC’s Morningside with host Peter Gzowski, whom she adored. Despite a medical condition that robbed her of her hearing and a complete loss of balance in later years, she baked her last apple pie at age 95 and donated 13 cherry cakes to the Cdn Cancer Society Festival of Trees at age 93.
In the afternoons, she would sit by the dining room window and knit at a pace that would defy belief. In modern day parlance, she was a “machine”. She would churn out babies pram suits, cardigans, blankets and other layette pieces all bound for the General Hospital Foundation gift shops. Hundreds of pieces were produced faithfully every year and mom was recognized with a Lifetime Contribution Award for her efforts. She was a member of the St. Clare’s Ladies Auxiliary.
She faithfully volunteered at her children’s schools – St. Pius X, St. Bon’s where she headed up the Ladies Auxiliary overseeing the iconic Sports Day, and Gonzaga where she co-chaired the PTA for many years alongside Father McKenna SJ.
Mom loved a game of bridge and played in many groups. She also played in the IODE marathon in aid of St. Luke’s Home and won the high single score for 13 years running.
She was devoted to her parish – Mary Queen of Peace and she served in many capacities, but most notably chaired the Turkey Tea Committee for the annual Garden Party for over 35 years. She only stepped aside when the event was discontinued. The Knights of Columbus bestowed on her a lifetime recognition for her incredible contribution.
Mom knew much sorrow in her life burying two sons in their prime but she tried very hard to not let it define her, and if you asked, she would say she had a joyous life. Her strong faith guided her and she was certain in the belief that they would all be reunited. She had a 55 year romance with her dashing Wilfred who was her one great love. Theirs was a love story for the ages. They enjoyed an active social life and could regularly be seen commandeering the dance floor displaying their dance skills and romance for all to see.
Thanks to Denise Cahill NP for her many years of attentive care that extended to her palliative care and to good friend Dr Marie O’Dea for palliative consult. We express sincere gratitude to those who offered Mom friendship and kindness in her elder years, especially Marie Whelan, Margot Reid OC, Lucy and Fred Conway and the residents of 7 Tiffany Lane condominiums, as well as her caregivers and friends Elizabeth Prince and most especially Marie Clouter. We are grateful to Very Reverend Monsignor Francis Puddister VG, who visited frequently and who blessed Mom with the final sacrament just a few weeks ago and to Mr Tom Lawlor who brought Holy Communion every Saturday and prayed and then chatted with Mom.
As it was her wish to not be cremated, a private burial will take place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. If desired, donations can be made to Mary Queen of Peace Food Bank or NL Autism Society. Arrangements entrusted to Carnell’s Funeral Home.
To Heather, Ian, Ken, and Brian,
I was so very sorry to hear of your mother’s death from Mary Kavanagh, one of the “Crescent” girls. I remeber well a chalk game we used to play in Wilansky’s driveway. It had to do withy numbers. On the number 5, you had to name 5 boys,which wasn’t too hard as we always named the McKinnon boys. When landed on 6 girls- that was always easy too, as we named all the Parker girls! I remember your mother so well, as she was a great friend to my mother, even after she became a widow, and moved off The Crescent. She was the last of the Crescent Tuesday bridge club to die. The picture here captured her completely, to that wonderful smile to the twinkle in her eyes. I remember so well my mother frequently commented on the most beautiful love your parents had. I know she took his death so hard, but, as you say, she didn’t define her, and she lived on.. Her faith helped her with that. She truly had a remarkable life comforted by her wonderful family . God bless
Heather, Ian Ken and Brian, Our Love and Sympathy from Howard Hynes and children, Ruby, Derek and Sheila.
Our Love and Sympathy from Howard Hynes and children, Ruby, Derek and Sheila.
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. I have fond memories of the kitchen on Glenridge Crescent which always seemed to have freshly baked bread on the counter. Mrs. McKinnon was always kind and she had the best smile. I know she will be missed.
Heather, Ian, Ken and Brian,
I hope you will be comforted by many fond memories of your dear mother. As others have commented already, she was indeed a lovely woman.
Dear Heather and Family. Please accept my sincere condolences. Your mother was a beautiful person in every way. I babysat most of you when I worked for your Dad. Your Mom made the most amazing cookies! Love to you all!
Ken, Ian, Heather and Brian.
Sincere condolences on the loss of your mother.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and your families during this sad occasion.
To Heather, Ian, Ken and Brian
So sad to hear about your mother’s passing.She was a lovely, upbeat person who always seemed to enjoy each and every day.I’m sure she’ll be missed by all.
Take care.
Gary and Donna Wadden
To the McKinnon family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of Cecilia. She will forever be remembered as a kind and beautiful lady whose generous spirit and loving nature was present in everything she did and everyone she touched.
We will keep you all in our prayers.
The Clift family
To Ken and family , sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing . She was indeed an accomplished woman .
I have never met her but she looks so familiar .
I think I ‘ ve seen her at bridge over the years .
My deepest sympathies to all of you ..
Helen Bowering
To the McKinnon family, Our sincerest condolences on the passing of your dear mother. God bless all of you in this time of loss!
Heather and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your beautiful Mom’s passing. She sounds like she was was a wonderful lady. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Cherish your memories.
Keith and Elaine Smith
My deepest condolences to all of the McKinnon family. Thoughts and prayers are with you at the sad time. May Mrs. McKinnon rest in peace
The McKinnon Family:
Please accept our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time on Cecilia’s passing. She was a most pleasant and gracious lady. Her legacy will be reflected in her love of family, loyalty and dedication to her church and her contributions to various charitable organizations.
Frank and Rosemary Galgay
To the McKinnon Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathies on the passing of your mother. She was a wonderful, kind, thoughtful lady. We know she will be deeply missed by all of you. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Heather, Brian, Ken and Ian. So sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. I frequently walk by the homestead on Glenridge Cresent and always think of your mother. Even going by there today, I still see her sitting on the front steps and I would stop to chat. I remember all the times I was in your house, with Steve, and always felt a warm welcome and a happiness from your mother. She was truly a wonderful woman. I hope at some point in the near future there will be a chance to celebrate her life. All the best to each of you and your families.
Heather, Ian and family. So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. I remember her well from MQP. A beautiful woman. My sincere condolences to you during a very difficult time.
Louise Prowse Mercer
Ken, Ian and families,
So sorry to read about your mother’s passing. We are sure that you have many wonderful memories of your mother that will live with you forever. We are thinking of you during this difficult time. Take care.
Ken, Christine, Ella and the McKinnon family please accept our condolences on the loss of your beautiful mother and grandmother. We are thinking of you.
God bless
Carol Ann and Hughie
Dear Ian and Heather and Family,
We are so saddened to hear about your mother’s passing. She truly was a wonderful and gracious lady.
Please accept our condolences at this trying time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Heather and Family,
We are so sad to hear of your mom’s death. We were neighbours on Glenridge for a few years and she was an absolute delight to know. She was so kind and beautiful. Treasure your wonderful memories.
Sincerely,
Glenda and Marshall Godwin
Ken, Ian, and Heather…please accept our condolences on the passing of your mother. There could not have been a kinder soul than your mom.
We wish you well in the days and months ahead.
Dear Brian, Heather, and all those affected by your mother’s love and grace in life and now in her passing, peace to you.
To The McKinnon Family,
I want to extend my deepest sympathies on the passing of your mother.
I know the strong bond of love that you had for your mother, so I can feel your loss at this time.
I had the great pleasure of knowing your parents and to see their love for each other and their family every time I would visit your home on Glenridge Crescent.
Your mother was a gentle soul, with a heart of gold, welcoming all those that crossed her path. She was a beautiful, stunning, classy woman who touched my heart with her sincere kindness and love. I will always remember her beautiful smile and the twinkle in her eyes.
Your mom touched my life and I am so grateful and thankful for having the opportunity to have known her. I loved her and have precious memories.
You are a wonderful family and the love that you share for each other and the love you gave your mother will help get you through these trying days.
My thoughts and prayers are with you .
Sandra Goff
Heather and Family……. I was very sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing……. I have wonderful memories of your Mom and My Mom enjoying a game of Bridge….. You can be comforted by the wonderful memories you have of you Mother….. Seamus and I offer our sincere sympathy to you and your family Janet O’Regan
Rita, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you grieve the passing of your loving sister, Cecilia. HUGS
Ken and Ian sorry for your loss from Diane and I . You have an awesome family
When Kate and I moved in on The Crescent with two little boys our neighbours across the road came over to meet us.Your mum said “How nice to see young children here again”Then out of your house came a procession of kids that seemed to go on forever.She was a mother to all on Glenridge and she and your dad were a wonderful example to a young couple.A long life well lived and loved by many.RIP
Heather Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and Prayers are with you and all the Family at this very sad time.
Margaret Parsons
Former employee of the Delta
Heather, So sorry to her of the loss of your mother. My parents often spoke of Wilf and Cecile and I always thought her name sounded so lovely. Clearly, she was a lady committed to her community. I think it’s fair to conclude that your willingness to give your time and energy to various causes is a trait you inherited from your mother. Wishing I could offer condolences in person. Please know my thoughts are with you. With sympathy, Susan
Ken, Ian and Heather , so sorry about your moms passing.
Ian, Brian, Ken and Heather
Sorry to hear of your moms passing.. Mrs McKinnon was a classic, she was so nice and polite when ever we crashed in on Glenridge Cres. Fresh baked cookies coming from the kitchen were all ways offered and dinner was ready upon the table with Mr. McKinnon’s arrival . June Cleaver of the neighbourhood will be remembered..
Heather we send our deepest condolences to you and all the McKinnon family. I had the privilege of chatting to your mom on a several occasions and was fortunate enough to have shared in a game of bridge. One thing was clear when you spoke to Mrs McKinnon (although she insisted we call her Cecilia) was her adoration, pride and love for her family. She would beam while speaking of Mr McKinnon, her true love. She was an inspiration to all and the world was a better place when she was in it but I know she is now reunited with your dad and brothers Sending our love. Bernice and Tony Batten
Heather, Ken and Ian our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time. Sending our condolences.
As always, hers is story that inspires people of all ages and pathways. Our hearts are with all of you, McKinnon family, as you continue her legacy of stewardship and love. Your bond as her”team” no doubt makes her proud of each one of you!
Rhonda, Ian and Family, sorry for your loss, your Beautiful Mom was an amazing Woman. Thinking about you all during this difficult time.
Linda Collins
Dearest Heather & Family, I was so sorry to hear your Mother had passed away. A wonderful Obituary, a life lived with so much love & service to her family & community. My thoughts, love and prayers are with you and your family Love Jane Dingle
Heather, Ian and all your family. Sincere sympathy on your Mom’s passing. She was a very committed volunteer; I remember working “on the tables” with her at MQP garden parties. Cherish the wonderful memories.
Heather and family,
Sincerest condolences at this sad time. I have beautiful memories of your lovely mother who was such a strong contributor to the MQP parish. I particularly remember both your mother and my own working together back in the ‘60s to have the loveliest tables at numerous turkey teas at the parish garden parties. White table cloths, china cups and beautifully prepared and presented meals were a credit to your mother who took such pride in doing such a wonderful job. A beautiful woman indeed.
Thinking of you Heather and Elroy at this time
THE BOYLES
ANNETTE MICHAEL and Patrick, and Jenny.
Ken and Family,
We are thinking of you and sending our deepest condolences at this sad time. May the loving memories of your remarkable mother always bring joy to your heart and a smile to your face..
Pam and Gord
Hi Heather,
Thinking of you at this difficult and sad time.
Hugs
Paul
Condolences to Sharon, Jennifer, Erica and the McKinnon family,. The Bishop family (Shirley, Barry, Bonny)
Rhonda and family;
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Paulette Jackman
Ian – I am so sorry for the loss of your mother, and at such a difficult time. The beautiful obituary speaks to what an impressive person she was. Sending my condolences to you and your family at this difficult time.
To Sharon and Family….our condolences on the passing of Mrs. McKinnon
Ken and Ian, please accept my condolences on the passing of your dear mother. Thankfully, she had a long and fulfilling life. May she rest in peace.
Ken and Ina, please accept my condolences on the passing of your dear mother. Thankfully, she had a long and fulfilling life. May she rest in peace.
Dearest Heather The Feather, I am so sad today concerning your mother’s passing. What a beautiful woman she was inside and out and her obituary was so well written and gave a true portrait of a woman so strong ,loving , useful and kind and above all a woman of strong faith. I am honored to have known her and she certainly raised a wonderful daughter and dear friend of the family. Please know that I am thinking and praying for you and have faith that we will all meet again in a magnificent paradise. Trust in God and much Peace and love . She will be missed by you and so many. Thank you for being such a wonderful and caring daughter. Love Ronda Lake Parker and family xo
Heather, Brian, Ken Ian and families my sincere condolences on your mother’s passing. Mrs. McKinnon was strong, charming, witty and her devotion to family and spirituality was an inspiration to others and, so were her homemade muffins. Cherish your memories.
The light that shone radiantly on a generation of NFLD women that expressed an uncommon level of elegance, wit, strength, faith and more than anything- grounded dignity- has dimmed once again. But she lives on in her children, and their families. Swift journey home Cecilia.
So sorry Ken, to hear of the passing of your Mother.. May your memories give you peace in your heart now and always! Namaste
Hey Ian, Ken, Heather, and Brian,
Truly sorry to hear about your Mom’s passing today! She was a beautiful lady who always had a smile on her face.
Known your Mom since I was a young guy when Ian and I used to hang around at Larch Place Park. Every time I went to visit Ian down at Glenridge I was greeted with a huge smile and a pleasant demeanour, never failed!
She always gave me a warm hug after 5:00 mass that she attended with your Dad at MQP and we always had nice chats!
I even remembered one year when I was down in Florida I think it was 1983 I met your Mom and Dad there and we used to walk St. Pete’s Beach on occasion!
Your Mom is now with your Dad, Stephen, and David up in heaven and the guys are delighted and so is your Mom!
God Bless Mrs. McKinnon!????✝️
Brian O’Grady and Family
Barrie, ON.
Rhonda and Family:
May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. My most sincere condolences.
Thinking of you all at this most difficult time. She was truly an amazing , beautiful women.. My heart is broken for you all as you pass the next few days, weeks and months and years ahead without her in your life! She was a royal matriarch .
Sending you all love and hugs.????
Heather Reardigan
My deepest sympathies are with you all at this difficult time. Heather and Ian (Rhonda), your mother was certainly a caring and giving person. I know your family will miss her dearly, as will her church and community. Losing a loved one is always difficult, made more difficult at this time of self isolation and social distancing. Thinking of you all. So sorry for your loss.
Ken, sincere condolences on the passing of your mother. We are both thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Heather and Larry
Heather I’m so sorry to hear about your Mothers passing . You are in my thoughts and prayers. My condolences to you and your family.
Dear Heather, Brian, Ken and Ian,
I remember your dear mother mostly for the strength of her love for you and yours, for your father and especially for you and your families, her pride and joy. There was never any doubt about how much she treasured you all. And I remember her for her exceptional skill in creating a home life so rich in all the things that nurtured your bodies and souls. Always gracious and welcoming, kind and generous, never a hair out of place, always beautifully turned out, and as smart as can be.
I feel very blessed to have known her and I do hope that she is now in that perfect place surrounded by love. Holding you in my heart, Jill
To Ken, Christine and Family…. sincerest sympathy at this difficult time.. .made ever more challenging by the current situation. The announcement of your Mom’s passing is so beautifully written that, although I didn’t meet her, it paints a wonderful loving picture of her full life. She shines in all of you. Take care …..
Annette White
Ian, Rhonda and family, our condolences on the passing of your mom. May your fond memories help you through the days and weeks ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pam and Phil Murphy and family.
Ken,
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family, especially you and Ella, on your Mom’s passing. We know that this time is particularly difficult in that you cannot gather friends and family to mourn and celebrate her long and loving life.
My deepest condolences to all of you at the passing of your loved one. It is especially heartbreaking that the times we live in today prohibit your friends and extended families from sharing the hugs we would like to comfort you with. My thoughts are with you.
To Ken and family… sending you condolences and your loss .. love Leah Rory and. Mitchell
My thoughts are with you Ken and your family during this time. May you find peace as you remember your mom and the joys you had together.
Dear Heather, Ian and Rhonda,, and families. Our deepest condolences on your Mothers passing. She was always sunny and smiling . We know you will have many warm and comforting memories to keep you over this difficult time.. Love from Jim and Lucy
Ken, Christine, Ella and McKinnon Family we send our heartfelt condolences on your Mother’s passing. Cherish the memories and take care of one another during this difficult time. With love Jacinta, Lou and Lenora Shelling
Hi my name is Dawn Tucker. I worked for Dr. Jim Darcy until his retirement. I have so many wonderful memories of your mom. She was such a beautiful woman. We often had many chats while at thee office. I will treasure them. I am so sorry for your loss especially during this virus. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. She will definitely be missed. Sincere thoughts Dawn Tucker.
Heather, so very sad to hear of your moms passing , she was such a beautiful lady and I will miss our appointments at the Salon! God bless!
To the McKinnon family. I am very sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. She was a wonderful person and an example of generosity and kindness to everyone who knew her.. In addition to raising a great family, her lasting legacy will be the way she inspired everyone to live better lives by helping others.
To Heather and family:
Sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Mel Crewe
St. John’s
Cecilia exemplified the word “lady” in every sense of its meaning.. She was gentle, gracious, kind and empathetic and lived her life wrapped in her love for family. Our sympathy goes to all those who loved her and are mourning this tremendous loss.
Dear Heather, Brian, Ken, Ian and family
What a beautiful photo of your mother and to remember her at a very special time in her life. She was a wonderful mother and neighbour who was gracious and kind. Our parents lived in a beautiful era and we have wonderful memories of our mothers being together over the many years. My heartfelt sympathy and my prayers offered to all.
Much Love
Mary Kavanagh
Ken, Christine, Ella and McKinnon Family: Losing your Mom is a sad and difficult time and we do know how close you all were to her. She lived a long and productive life and left behind many blessings. She will be missed terribly but has moved on to a better place. When we get through this distressed time we will all get together and give her the fabulous farewell that she deservedly earned. RIP Cecilia All our Love. Josie, Mike and family
Ian and family, our sincere condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in these difficult times. We have very fine ‘Tangler’ memories of your Mom and Dad.
Best
Dearest Heather and family: I am so very sorry to know of the loss of your beloved mother. May you find comfort and solace from the expression of love from family and friends. Please know I am with you in prayer during this very sad time of grieving. Heart hugs and peace. Love from Jane Leibel
Ken, Christine, Ella and the McKinnon and Hynes families,. Sincere condolences on the loss of your beautiful Mother..❤️
Ian, my sincere condolences to you and your family.