Obituary of Rachel Madeline McDonald

To watch the recording of the service, click this link:

https://video.ibm.com/embed/recorded/132935871

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rachel Madeline McDonald (nee Blenkinsop) on Monday, July 24, 2023 at the age of 81 years. Rachel “Rae” was deeply loved and cherished by her children, Ross (Janet), David (Sandy) and Debi (Bob); five grandchildren whom she adored, Kent (Jenn), Alysse (Jeff), Josselyn, Evan (Shelby) and Carlyne (Simon); and seven great-grandchildren, James, River, Jacob, Maverick, Jade, Jordon and Ruby. She was so excited for the upcoming birth of her 8th great grandchild due this October. Rachel was predeceased by her husband, James McDonald; mother, Margaret Blenkinsop; and father, Neville Blenkinsop.

Rae was born and raised in North Vancouver, BC. She was so proud of her family heritage and history particularly in the Williams Lake BC area, where her father’s family ranched in the area for many decades. As a single mother living in the lower mainland, Rae focused on her family of three children and her career, always striving to make the best life for her family. Supported by her mother “Grannie”, life was an adventure always exploring and going on family trips in the area, sometimes getting lost, but always finding home eventually.

In 1974, Rachel married the love of her life, Jim McDonald, from Wiseton, Saskatchewan, and a new adventure began. Becoming a farmer’s wife and new members of the McDonald Clan, Rae assimilated into her new life supporting Dad on the farm, operating an insurance business, and volunteering where and when she could. Her fried chicken was legendary! She learned to curl, she loved to garden and most of all enjoyed family time with her kids and grandkids, nieces and nephews. After Jim passed, Rae settled in Saskatoon and enjoyed her time and new friends at her retirement home at Primrose Chateau. Many thanks to the staff of Primrose Chateau and the staff of Golden Wellness Health for their love and kindness during our mother’s illness. Special people do special things!

Please join Rae’s family in Celebrating her Life at Saskatoon Funeral Home (338 – 4th Ave. North, Saskatoon, SK.) on Friday, July 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. For those unable to attend the service, the family invites you to join the service via livestream. To leave condolences and to watch the livestream, please visit Rae’s tribute page at www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com.