After celebrating her 100th birthday on May 16th, Winnie McDonald passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. As was her wish, she slipped away in her sleep after having lived a full, healthy, independent, and active life until her last week. Winnie was able to see or speak to all her family in that time. With the support of family and Palliative home care, she was able to stay comfortably in her home until her passing.

In May, all of Mum’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren gathered in Winnipeg for a weekend of birthday celebrations. There was lots of visiting, laughter and eating. Mum enjoyed spending time with the youngest of her great grandchildren, watched cousins reconnecting, and took comfort in knowing that everyone had achieved successful and meaningful lives.

Mum is the last of her generation of both the Ritchie and McDonald families to pass. She is predeceased by her husband Earl, daughter Cheryl, brother Bill, sisters and spouses Janet (Bill), Mary (Fred), and Ethel (Lou) as well as brothers and sisters-in-law and spouses, Norman (Colleen), Shirley (Tom), Douglas (Hilma), Grace (Hal), and Mildred (Andy).

Mum will be remembered by her children and their spouses Joanne (Doug), Bill (Karen), and Keith (Bev), and grandchildren Chris (Paula), Heath (Lexi), Jill (Jen), Scott (Kelly), and Amy (Keith). Great-grandchildren include Ethan, Lauren, Sam, Emily, Ellery, Madeline, Samara and Noel. Mum was a special aunt to many nieces and nephews. We are all so fortunate to have had Mum in our lives for so long. She left us with these thoughts.

“Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.

Leave the rest to God.

Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass.

It’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

The family is grateful for the excellent support and care from Dr. Jennifer Schacter and the Community Palliative home care team. As well, the family recognizes and is grateful to The Westhaven and staff for providing a wonderful, independent living experience for the past 4 years. Mum enjoyed spending time with new friends and participating in many activities.

As per Mum’s wishes, there will be no funeral. Mum and Dad were lifelong members of Trinity United Church in Portage la Prairie. Mum also supported Siloam Mission, the Salvation Army, and the Red Cross over the years. Memorial donations to these charities or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

The family thanks all of the extended family and friends who have sent kind words of condolence, brought food, and sent flowers. We appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Special thanks to Colleen and Flynn Memorial Services for their help and guidance and for putting together Mum's wonderful video tribute.

Messages of condolences can be made online at www.flynnmemorial.com.

Flynn Memorial Services is entrusted with the arrangements.