From a former public school classmate, my Condolences to the family.

Heather and I were both saddened to hear of Aunt Kathie's passing. She was full of life, and actively supported the community. We enjoyed reading her pieces in the magazines, and always enjoyed our visits, although too few. Peace and blessings to Russ and the entire family, as well as friends and colleagues.

I am so sorry for your loss. I remember fondly, how much Kathie and Patty and l would laugh when we would get together. The world is quieter somehow now. I will truly cherish those memories with a smile. Thinking of you, Patty. Always there for you.

I would have first met Kathie in about 1989 when she and I both became friends with a young university student, Jane, visiting Canada on an exchange from England. Our paths then crossed through the Eastern Canadian Farm Writers’ Association (Kathie was a fantastic writer) and then we became work neighbours for many years in the Ontario AgriCentre when she worked for the Rural Ontario Institute. Even if we didn’t see each other in the hall daily, we could often hear Kathie’s signature laugh resonating from her office down to ours. And even if we weren’t in on the joke, that laughter was always infectious! Kathie saw joy and found laughter in so much – which is why she was loved by so many. Most recently, we served on the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame board together – another of her passion projects - and we’ve kept up a regular online chat with Jane in England who is grieving from afar. This week, I’m thinking of Russ and all of the Groff and MacDonald families and everyone who loved Kathie. She’ll be so very missed.

Kathy, Patty, Nanc and I…the “Cousins” were getting together around every 3-4 months for a fun outing.  I am so grateful we have those memories and will always appreciate Kathie’s exuberance and bubbly personality. She will be sorely missed. 
Joanne Boone

Russell and family: Ron and I are so sorry for your loss of Kathie.  Sending you prayers for strength and comfort.  Ron and Heather Whitelaw

So sorry for your loss, Russ. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Russ and family,
An unexpected, sudden passing is very difficult, but know that others feel your sadness.  
The most beautiful times of our lives can never be lost, for they live in our hearts and are relived in our memories,
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you.
Joan Ramsey

My condolences to Kathie’s family and all who loved her. She was a bright light in agriculture who always had a big smile and twinkle in her eye.  We would often share stories and loud laughing together whenever we met and when we worked in the same building.  She was one of a kind and will always have a special place in my heart. ❤️

I am so sorry to hear about Kathie. We had met in AALP Class 14 and she toured with us through New York, Washington DC, Maryland and Pennsylvania. She was always up for something new and we had great adventures.  My heart aches for your loss.

Russ and family, my sincere condolences.  Kathie was at AALP when I participated as well as when I served on board as director and president.  She was a constant caring and calming force.  Kathie and I conversed regularly on facebook.  I will miss her.  Do take care and find comfort in your memories.

Art Stirling, Chatham-Kent, Ontario

Dear Russ and Family,
My condolences on the loss of Kathie. 
I was in AALP during Kathie's time at ROI. I remember a joy that surrounded her in her work. Even silly things like rooming lists she brought to the class with a smile and laugh. I imagine that you heard a lot of Kathie's laughter over the years...
I want to say thanks for the way that you shared her with a much bigger rural and agricultural community. It was busy work with a lot less automation and tools to lighten the load at that time. But I can't think of a time that she showed it. 
Kathie made a difference. She was one of the reasons AALP was such a good time in my life.
Our prayers are with you all. 
Peggy Brekveld
Leadership Programs Director, Rural Ontario Institute
AALP Class 12

I am so sorry to hear about Kathie.  She was a lovely person.  I first met her in grade 6 and we became good friends and had many sleepovers as young girls.  We also spent many years in 4-H together.   As adults we chatted on messenger and always said we would get together.  Lives were busy and we never had that get together.   I am sure you will all miss her tremendously.

Rusty, so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of such a wonderful co worker and friend.
Kathy was such a bubby and unique individual. She will be missed by so many!
Bruce & Mary Livingston

I met Kathie as a board member of the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame. She was a delight to work with, and her commitment, dedication and sense of humour was infectious.
My sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. Kathie represented all that is good in Rural Ontario. We have lost a gem.

Roger George,  OFA President 1990-95

Russ, Greg and family,
Kathie cultivated a large community of people -- both locally and through her many involvements in agriculture -- and we are mourning her loss alongside you. 
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

We are so sorry to hear about Kathie's death.  Her wonderful enthusiasm, her friendly personality and her beautiful smile will certainly be missed.
Sincerely 
Ron & Betty Storey

OBITUARY

Kathryn "Kathie" Elizabeth MacDonald (nee Groff)

17 June, 1957 – 1 October, 2026

Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Hart Chapel

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A Private Family Memorial to take place