Walter Harris McKay
November-29-1923 - July-27-2018
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marilyn labelle posted a condolence
To Bob and Lois and family,im glad I got to know walter a few years back,he loved telling good stories from a way back.thinking of you all at this time.....
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Marilyn Bowes-Henry posted a condolence
My sincere condolences to the McKay Family. I have fond memories of times spent with your Mum and Dad over the years at the farm and at community events with my parents Grace and Ken Bowes.
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Kevin Carnrite posted a condolence
Sending my sincere condolences to all of Walter's family. Take care of each other at this difficult time.
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Maxine and Rick Topping posted a condolence
Dear Audrey and family, our deepest condolences, just read of your father’s passing. Keep the memories close to your heart.
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Bob and Elaine DeLisle and Family posted a condolence
Beautiful memories of a beautiful life. Treasure them all and hold them close to your heart. He taught you all many things but most of all Love Our deepest sympathy to all of the McKay family. Walter and Evelyn raised a beautiful family and were very proud of all of you.
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Drummond Centre Womens Institute posted a condolence
The ladies of Drummond Centre Women's Institute would like to extend our sympathy to the McKay family on the loss of Walter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
K
Ken McKay Labron posted a condolence
To Bob and Lois and family: I will always
remember the great times with the McKay Clan:
the visits-meals-stories,all done with a lot of
love and care.
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Michelle Hannah posted a condolence
RIP Walter
You and your family have left a huge footprint on my heart...
W
Wib & Barb Crain posted a condolence
Our deepest sympathy to the McKay family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
B
Bob and Linda Purdon posted a condolence
Our sympathy goes to the family in the death of Walter. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
L
Laurie & Cheryl Craig posted a condolence
Bob & Lois, Audrey, Donna & Mark & Families
Cherish the memories of a very good Father, Grandfather and Greatgrandpa and know our thoughts are with you at this time.
Sincerely,
Laurie & Cheryl
J
Jim & Linda Whelen posted a condolence
Bob & Lois, Audrey, Donna & Mark & families. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Walter was such a gentle man, with a ready smile. He will be missed. Our thoughts are with all of you at this time.
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Laurie and Marilyn Manson posted a condolence
Although we are not available to attend the service, etc please know that our thoughts are with each of you at this time. Walter was a wonderful man and will be missed by all. Our deepest sympathy. Laurie and Marilyn
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Steve & Maxine Robertson posted a condolence
Dear Donna & family,
We were saddened to hear of your loss. Uncle Walter and Aunt Evelyn were so kind and generous. Holding all of you in our thoughts and very sorry we were unable to be with you these past few days.
Keeping you in our prayers,
Maxine (Earl & Irene's family) & Steven Robetson
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The family of Walter Harris McKay uploaded a photo
Monday, January 20, 2020
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Donna Hall lit a candle
Sunday, August 5, 2018
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Walter - See ya later..
<p>
Dad’s life is just too big to put on one page. I have really struggled with this. Edit, re-edit, shorten, add, there was just too much, and I wanted to capture it all, and put it a piece of paper that I could tuck inside my heart. The impact dad had on his family and community is just too big. </p>
<p>
Walter was brought into this world at the hand of Granny Mary, who doubled as the area mid-wife. He was the middle son of James R. & Maggie McKay, born on the family farm just east of Middleville. His brothers were Leonard and Allie. Those boys were scally wags. They had to work in the garden, and help with chores, but Dad had stories of his childhood that made you laugh until you cried. Such fun they had. Scaring a cow, skating on Puddic Pond, always a dog to play with, toboganning with the neighbour kids, Ed Peacock, the Creightons, the Mansons, walking to school in Middleville. </p>
<p>
Not so long ago, one of the residents at Rideau Ferry mentioned that dad was having a bad day, he was quite concerned about him. “He thinks he is an astronaut, says he’s been to the moon.” I burst out laughing. No dad didn’t think he was an astronaut, he was talking about his first day of school when they were playing “Over the Moon” and he broke his arm. </p>
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His favorite teacher was A.J. McIntyre, who taught so much more than just education from texts. Friday was poetry day. “What is so Rare as a Day in June” by James Russell Lowell; was one of dad’s favorites. When the boys complained about all this memory work, Mr. McIntyre told them… some day you will be old men, sitting alone, with nothing much to do, and you will concentrate on remembering the words. That will fill your days. No truer words were spoken. Dad and I had our last talk about A.J. McIntyre, probably a month ago. Dad talked for years about the trial that AJ McIntyre had held in the class room one day. A damaged stove pipe, and no one would confess. And no one else would say who had done it. Utter frustration for the teacher. So, he set up a trial, with both defense and prosecuting attorneys, a jury, and of course a judge. Students were called to testify, and there was an audience, but no one would speak of who had committed the crime. Class was held late that day, but still no satisfactory conclusion. The case was eventually thrown out and everyone went home. Dad always told the story, but not until last week, did he tell who the guilty party was. The boys walked home after school that night, and somehow without even a telephone, James R. already knew about the performance at school that day. Dad said, one look from his dad, and he just said... “I did it.” He couldn’t lie to father. James R. told him his honesty had saved him from a skinnin’ and they never spoke of it again. </p>
<p>
Dad never gave up his desire to learn and he was a very intelligent and talented man. Dad passed his entrance exams to attend high school, but did not go, staying at home to help on the farm. With that Grade 8 education, dad went on to farm but his keen mind made him an excellent problem solver, and with his life experience, he could fix anything, he could understand how things worked. He worked at different sawmills in the area, and much later in life, he took work at Irving Sheet Metal in Almonte. He could do anything that was asked of him. Dad always said that when someone gave you a job, do just a little more than they ask, and they would find you reliable and your job would be secure. Another piece of “work advice” he gave me, carried me a long way in my career. I was writing training manuals for my position, and dad said “Give the hardest job to the laziest person and they’ll find the easiest way to do it”. Again, no truer words were spoken. </p>
<p>
In the 1970s, Unions were becoming prominent, dad was still working at Derrod. He took evening courses, and ended up being an inter-provincial Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. He could lay patterns just with his common sense, and found it a bit odd that you had to make all these mathematical equations with letters to get the answer he already had, but he did it. Passed with flying colours. He never lost the desire to learn new things. He was always keen to learn “use google and find out for me” he would say. </p>
<p>
Dad met my mother – he liked to tell – in Middleville in 1924 – when they were both having their diapers changed at Mrs. Manson’s house.. Mom would have been about 3 months old.. .. Mom hated when he said that “Walter, now tell the story right!” she’d say. They met again at the Middleville Church at a box lunch in 1943. They were married in April the following year. Dad’s advice for marriage was that you made up the rules before you took the plunge, then you simply had to follow them. There would be no drinking in their home. Neither ever took a drink. They would resolve their issues before they went to bed every day. They would remain faithful to each other, and live out their days together. “Once you’ve made the choice” he said, “it’s really quite simple.” You didn’t break a promise and you never gave up. They were blessed to have 72 years together. We were all blessed to be able to watch that love and live in it’s glow. The one time I remember them having a small argument at the dinner table, I told Norval Wilson that they were getting a divorce. I bet Norval laughed for days over that. Countless times I would stop in after work at Rideau Ferry, and they would be lying in bed, holding hands, sometimes sleeping, sometimes talking about the day. An image I hold dear. For the 5 years before the move, we had date night every Friday with take out food, and we would talk for hours. I tried to remember every story they told, but it was quite impossible. We kept up the tradition after the move to Rideau Ferry. Everyone where I worked knew I was busy on Fridays – had my date with mom & dad. </p>
<p>
About that engagement .. Audrey and I were asking mom & dad about their romance one day, curious about how their courtship had transpired, and dad told us he bought mom’s wedding ring at Benny K’s. For the young ones and the out of towners – Benny K’s was the Army Surplus store in Perth. We believed that for years! And not until we found the ring box marked “Burns Jewellers” did we know the truth! He laughed. Thought that was a pretty good one. </p>
<p>
Their family grew, with Bob, Brenda, Audrey and I. Everytime I hugged dad - he would say "I love you all, What would I do without you kids."</p>
<p>
No story of dad could be told without humour. Sharp wit. Last Wednesday, he had been having a bad day, he was laying quietly, and spontaneously started laughing. Right out of the blue. “What are you chuckling about dad?” “Wouldn’t you like to know” he said, and he laughed some more. “Ah Pet, you have to have a good laugh every day, even on your worst.” Words he lived by and I will carry with me. “Spread your sunshine” he told me. So I will.</p>
<p>
Dad went on the Excursions to the west in the late 1940s. He travelled the western provinces harvesting wheat, and made many friends there. When we travelled to Saskatchewan in the 1970s, we took a drive to one of the old farms he worked on. It was still owned by the son of the man dad had worked for. We spent the whole afternoon there, and they insisted that we stay for supper. They were so grateful that men from the east had come to help and they had been told the stories of the helping hand they received. They also wanted us to stay over night, but dad was afraid we’d have to sleep in the barn like back in the 40’s so we went to a hotel. Dad. You always made me laugh. </p>
<p>
When I was a child, we travelled a lot and they loved family history. We were in Eastern Canada, not sure which province, but mom and dad would go to the hotel at night and read the phone book to see who they might call the next day! Looking for relatives – names that matched ours. Wow. Like we didn’t have enough family already. When I was about 14, I thought this was the most bizarre thing.. I was so embarrassed! But the funny thing was – we found plenty of them! One day Mom went in the phone booth. Dad and I watched from the car. Several calls and hang ups. Then mom’s head started bobbing and she was talking, plenty of hand gestures – talking – more hand movements .. then she came back to the car. “Is it the right family?” dad asked - “No, but we’re going over for coffee anyway.” And I guess that’s where I get that talking to strangers thing. Dad just shook his head and put the car in gear. A stranger was just a friend we hadn’t met yet. </p>
<p>
Dad tended to drive past most tourist sites when we travelled, but when I was long grown & gone from home, their road trips slowed down, and it was nice to know that they enjoyed the places they visited. </p>
<p>
Dad’s friends, mom & dad had so many. Ron & Audrey, Earl & Dorothy, Clarence & Betty, Ted & Nada, Merle & Shirley, Wim & Corrine, Russell, too many to list. Camping and road trips, Bill & Audrey, all good solid people that helped each other out, and well, who can forget the card games, Ronnie plucking your funny bone, and at midnight the card game stopped – you couldn’t play cards on Sunday – and the salmon sandwiches rolled out. </p>
<p>
Dad was proud of his Scottish heritage. They enjoyed the Highland Games, bag pipes, and all things plaid. But he was never able to travel to Scotland. He didn’t have many regrets in life, but this was one. He would have liked to walk the soil of the old Country. </p>
<p>
When dad retired, he took up golf – at 65! He took up golf, bought membership at Calabogie and played 2 times a week for years. Even after his eye sight was gone, Bill Cameron & Bob Rophy would pick him up and take him anyway just to drive around the course. </p>
<p>
Sugar making, how I miss sugar making. How I miss the trips to Grandpa’s bush in spring. The smell of the sap boiling.. I can smell it now, can't you? It was wonderful. I used to go fishing with my dad on long weekends at the “whispering pines” camp ground… we spent many hours in that boat, talking, and fishing. I had a real nice rod dad bought me at the Home Hardware in Almonte, and a Red Devil. We didn't need worms. We were that good. </p>
<p>
Hunting season was looked forward to for months, pretty much from the day it ended. Dad was a founding member of the P&M Hunt Club. Started in 1946, and p.s. That wasn’t the year I was born. He loved the hunt and passed the passion on to Bob & Waylon.</p>
<p>
We are all blessed with memories – I could go on for hours. Memories fill our minds. Today I think they are sacred and private. Time will wash away the pain, but we’ll open a book, see a photograph or visit the old bridge and be flooded with memories forever. More than memories, mom and dad gave us a good solid upbringing. We were taught that a man’s word was his bond, honesty and integrity are values to be held high. Faith will carry us through the hard days and lift us up. We need to spread our sunshine, there is enough doom and gloom in this world. Share our light. Be kind and compassionate, smell the roses. Be grateful and humble. Enjoy your life. Work hard and put family first. You can never have too much pie. Dad's mother made Buttermilk pie for her boys almost every day. </p>
<p>
Mom & Dad moved to Rideau Ferry Country Home in 2014. Dad had always said that he would make the decision and he did. It wasn’t easy but they accepted it. "It wasn't what they planned" dad would say, "but we have to accept it." They brought their grace to Rideau Ferry, and they settled in well over time. They made friends, and for a while there was a Middleville-Hopetown gang living there. Harry Mather, Betty Sommerville, Mom & Dad, Laurie Stewart, and Earl. After mom passed, dad missed her terribly. How much we loved having Earl with dad. He really helped fill the emptiness. I would sit between the two of them, and the conversations were really funny sometimes, neither one could hear, so there was a lot of yelling, and I would end up yelling too! They were next door neighbours for life.</p>
<p>
The staff at the home are to be commended for how they took dad under their wing, and made the last 18 months there really good for dad. He started to go to activities. I’d find him sitting visiting with people after lunch, and it was nice to see. He enjoyed the musical afternoons and you’d see him tapping his toes and even singing along sometimes to the old-time music. He said that he liked to speak to everyone in the dining room at least once a day. “Good morning to you” he would say. But, he never quit missing mom. He really struggled to live without her. </p>
<p>
One thing that always brought joy to dad was the “wee ones” and he was so happy when they came to visit. It made him smile. When we made a list one day of all the kids – grand, great and great-great – he was shocked at the length of the list! “I did that? ” he said. Yes you did I told him, “well hokie”. He was proud of each and every one of you. Last week, I reviewed with him where each of you were and what you were doing. He enjoyed that. You could see the pride in his eyes. </p>
<p>
No matter how hard I try, I cannot capture all that was Walter. Words others have used to describe him this week are honourable, humble, honest, sincere, quick witted, wise, a real gentleman, and let’s not forget a "character". </p>
<p>
I will share one piece of advice that he gave me when mom passed. He said "She's the lucky one". Then he elaborated. She was the lucky one because she had been waiting since 1938 to see her mother again, since 1948 to see her father, most of their friends had passed, and there was but a handful of people on earth left to mourn her passing. Living to 92, her family was all gone, her neighbours cousins and past coworkers - all gone. There were so many there to greet her. She was the lucky one. </p>
<p>
My father was wise. I believe it now too. Anyone that knew Walter will miss him, but he’s the lucky one. Last Friday, there was such a crowd at the Gates. He's probably still going through the line up. </p>
<p>
When he was still on the farm, dad quit saying good bye. He would rather say “See ya later”. So with dad in mind, I will say the same. </p>
<p>
We’ll see you later Dad. Thanks for the memories</p>
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Laurie and Marilyn Manson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Although we are not available to attend the service, etc please know that our thoughts are with each of you at this time. Walter was a wonderful man and will be missed by all. Our deepest sympathy. Laurie and Marilyn
J
Jim & Linda Whelen posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Bob & Lois, Audrey, Donna & Mark & families. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Walter was such a gentle man, with a ready smile. He will be missed. Our thoughts are with all of you at this time.
L
Laurie & Cheryl Craig posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Bob & Lois, Audrey, Donna & Mark & Families Cherish the memories of a very good Father, Grandfather and Greatgrandpa and know our thoughts are with you at this time. Sincerely, Laurie & Cheryl
B
Bob and Linda Purdon posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Our sympathy goes to the family in the death of Walter. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
W
Wib & Barb Crain posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Our deepest sympathy to the McKay family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
M
Michelle Hannah posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
RIP Walter You and your family have left a huge footprint on my heart...
m
marilyn labelle posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
To Bob and Lois and family,im glad I got to know walter a few years back,he loved telling good stories from a way back.thinking of you all at this time.....
C
Clarence Gemmill posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Our deepest sympathy to the McKay family Clarence & Betty
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Drummond Centre Womens Institute posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
The ladies of Drummond Centre Women's Institute would like to extend our sympathy to the McKay family on the loss of Walter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
B
Bob and Elaine DeLisle and Family posted a condolence
Monday, July 30, 2018
Beautiful memories of a beautiful life. Treasure them all and hold them close to your heart. He taught you all many things but most of all Love Our deepest sympathy to all of the McKay family. Walter and Evelyn raised a beautiful family and were very proud of all of you.
First Visitation
When Wednesday, August 1st, 2018 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Location
Blair & Son - Perth Chapel
Address
15 Gore St W,
Perth, ON K7H 3C7
Location Information
Plentiful parking at the rear of the facility
Second Visitation
When Wednesday, August 1st, 2018 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location
Blair & Son - Perth Chapel
Address
15 Gore St W,
Perth, ON K7H 3C7
Location Information
Plentiful parking at the rear of the facility
Service Information
When
Thursday, August 2nd, 2018 10:00am
Location
Blair & Son - Perth Chapel
Address
15 Gore St W,
Perth, ON K7H 3C7
Location Information
Plentiful parking at the rear of the facility
