It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend Michelle McDonald. Michelle’s spirit—a rare blend of warmth, whimsy, and wisdom—touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Michelle passed away peacefully, surrounded by the deep love and care of family and friends, creating a web of comfort that reflected the very essence of her being.
Michelle was an extraordinary person, whose infectious laughter and limitless enthusiasm infused every interaction with joy and significance. Whether on phone calls, Facetime, Zoom, in network meetings, on nature walks, or during casual coffee chats, she had a remarkable gift for making everyone laugh and smile.
Her love for the natural world was deep and abiding. A staunch advocate for accessibility, Michelle spent countless hours in her neighbourhood and community gardens, making connections and sharing her boundless ideas with anyone who showed interest. Her artistic talents were another facet of her generous spirit, often surprising loved ones with gifts of her colourful creations.
Perhaps one of Michelle’s most endearing traits was her fascination with spiders—a passion she shared with the same intensity she brought to every part of her life. Through her, many came to appreciate the beauty and importance of these often-misunderstood creatures.
At PLAN, Michelle’s contributions were profound and far-reaching. She was a cornerstone of our community, consistently advocating for equity and fairness. Her writings, especially those about accessibility for people with disabilities and gardening, stand as a testament to her love for the environment and her dedication to creating caring, inclusive communities.
Michelle believed that holidays were sacred times for gathering and celebration, insisting that each should be marked with a full turkey dinner and large groups of people gathered together. This belief underscored her conviction that such occasions were vital for weaving the fabric of community—tighter, stronger, and more vibrant.
As we remember Michelle, we celebrate her incredible journey and the deep, meaningful connections she nurtured along the way. Her legacy of love, laughter will continue to inspire and guide us. We are immensely grateful for the precious moments we shared with Michelle and will forever hold her memory in our hearts.
As we reflect and honor Michelle’s life, we invite you to share a memory or story about how she touched your life.