Leona Esther Mackey

Leona Esther Mackey (nee Stenson) born in Asquith, Saskatchewan passed away peacefully on Monday, March 22nd, 2010 at the age of 89 years. Leona was predeceased by her husband Elmer in February of 1988. She is survived by her son Ken Mackey; daughters Shirley (Murray) Markell and their children  Crystal Markell, Nicole (Kendell) Schneider, Michael (Meaghan) Markell, Donna (Les) Schoffer and their children Casey (Bob Elliott) Schoffer and Tyler Schoffer, Barb Hoffman and her children Steen and Jayme and their father Darcey; great grandchildren Amy Schneider and Colby Schoffer; sisters Madeline Sillers of Coquitlam, BC and Irene Larson of Saskatoon; several nieces and nephews; as well as dear friends and long-time neighbours. The Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, March 27th, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. at Rosedale Cemetery with Pastor Marvin Seaborg officiating. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery gates no later than 1:15 p.m. The Memorial and luncheon will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Eagles Club, 561 Home St. West. Leona was one of eight children, raised on a dairy farm near Asquith. Leona did housekeeping work and during the war years worked at the residence at the University in Saskatoon. She married Elmer “Buck” Mackey on October 3rd, 1947 and they farmed at Baildon, before settling in Moose Jaw. Always a hard worker, Leona was busy caring for Elmer and four children as a homemaker. Leona and Elmer were avid gardeners. Canning, cooking and baking were talents she shared.  Leona accepted life’s challenges. She battled with rheumatoid arthritis without complaint. Leona was gracious, kind, non-judgmental and above all cheerful – a woman whose strength allowed her to remain in her own home until her passing. Her greatest joys were her children, grandchildren, sons-in-law and her two great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all of them. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Leona may be made to The Arthritis Society, 110 – 2550 12th Ave., Regina, Sask. S4P 3X1.