Lynda Suzanne Mandziuk

Lynda was born in Toronto but spent her formative years in Kingston, Jamaica. The eldest of her siblings and cousins, she was driven, responsible, and known to provide direction and guidance. Her childhood involved attending her mother’s school, Fay Simpson Preparatory School, dancing and swimming in the sea at Long Bay in Portland,Jamaica. She took her studies seriously; likely the result of growing up in a family of educators. In high school, she served as head girl at The Queen’s School for Girls, a leadership position she cherished and embodied with pride. She also lifeguarded, wanting to ensure people experienced the joys of swimming. This was later instilled in both her children and grandchildren.

After graduating high school, Lynda moved to England to train as an Occupational Therapist. Following her studies, she moved by herself to Winnipeg, Manitoba. She loved her work and specialized in supporting children with a wide range of abilities and disabilities for many years in Winnipeg and later in Ajax, Ontario, until her health prevented her from continuing.

In her early thirties she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, still in the early days of research and treatment. Her outlook and determination fueled her quest for healing. She persevered for herself and her children, Alexis and Kristina. Her approach to motherhood was purposeful - teaching the value of education, the power of generosity and kindness, and the importance of reinvesting in the community. Lynda was an advocate for people with disabilities, lobbying for equal access, volunteering for the MS Society and served on the board of Hutton House in London, Ontario for many years.

Art was a source of immense joy for Lynda. She first channeled her creativity into “Sacs by Suzanne”; a business where she designed and sold reusable bags. She later discovered watercolours, proudly showcasing her art at the London Public Library and in her room at Baycrest Apotex in Toronto, where she spent her final days. Many of her works now grace the homes of others.

Lynda loved to travel and visited many places including several European countries, and a bucket-list cruise to Alaska.

Lynda built a vast and diverse community. She was known for her dry sense of humour, quick wit and grand ideas. She was intentional about maintaining contact with family and friends worldwide.

One of her greatest joys was becoming a grandmother to Micah, Lennox and Aria, cherishing visits, sharing a meal, hearing their updates, attending events and concerts - watching them grow.

Though the last five years brought significant physical limitations and changes, Lynda continued to push forward, finding joy in the things she loved - Lynda fought hard to live a big life, and she unapologetically did.

Lynda is predeceased by her mother, Eileen Fay Simpson. She is survived by her sister, Laura Simpson; brother, Bobby Simpson; her daughters, Alexis Dawson (Matt) and Kristina McCarter (Michael) and their father and former spouse, Gary Mandziuk; her grandchildren, Micah, Lennox, and Aria; and many extended family and friends.

Lynda’s ashes will be interred at Prospect Cemetery in Toronto, with a portion to be scattered in Jamaica in reunion with her mother. Her Celebration of Life will be held in Toronto this April near her birthday - a joyful gathering inspired by her love of bright colours, music and good food.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the MS Society of Canada: https://mscanada.donorportal.ca/Donation/Donation.aspx?F=1895&T=INMEM&L=en-CA&G=358&NFP=1