Mary O'Kane

Mary (Lindsay) O’Kane was born on May 18, 1939, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and grew up on St. James Road, a place that shaped her strong sense of family, friendship, and community. Those early years stayed with her always, grounding her in kindness, resilience, and a love of conversation that never left her.

Family was the centre of Mary’s life. She shared a special and lifelong bond with her beloved sisters, Kathleen and Frances—relationships rich in love, shared history, and understanding. She also carried close to her heart the memory of her mother Jean, her brother Jim, and her sister Lily, who predeceased her and were dearly missed.

At the age of 20, Mary met Joseph O’Kane, the love of her life. Their courtship grew into a partnership marked by devotion, laughter, and unwavering support, and they were married on April 25, 1962. Together, Mary and Joe raised four children and built a life rooted firmly in love. With courage and hope for a better future, they made the journey to Canada on May 5, 1977—a bold step that opened a new chapter while never dimming Mary’s pride in where she came from.

Canada became home, and Mary made it so for everyone around her. Her door was always open, the kettle never far from boiling, and there was always room for one more at the table. She was a woman who valued friendship deeply and was blessed with many close friends in Guelph. She especially treasured her lunch group and the lively coffee gatherings after Mass, where stories were shared, laughs were had, and friendships were nurtured.

Mary passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25th, at Hospice Wellington, with her devoted husband of 64 years and her family by her side. Over the final year of her life, Mary faced ALS with quiet courage, dignity, and grace, meeting each day with strength and love.

She was predeceased by her beloved eldest son, Joseph O’Kane Jr. Mary is lovingly remembered by her husband, Joe; her daughter Patricia and son-in-law Rich Staines; her sons Kevin and Paul; and her son-in-law Bob Tranchida. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Joseph, Shona, Taylor, Nicholas, Siobhan, Ainslee, Rowan, and Rory, and a cherished great-grandmother to Griffin, Keegan, Kaiden, River, and Leia.

Mary also held her extended family close. She enjoyed many laughs with her brothers-in-law, Patrick and Sean, and shared a joyful bond with her sister-in-law Teresa. Mary fondly remembered her beloved brothers-in-law, Seamus and Peter. She was also very close with her brother’s family and her dear sister-in-law Lillian, cherishing the connection and sense of belonging that family brings.

Above all else, Mary was a loving wife, a devoted mother, and a grandmother and great-grandmother who took immense pride and joy in her family. Whether gathered together at home or travelling side by side, her happiest moments were spent surrounded by those she loved.

Please join the family for a funeral Mass on Saturday, January 31st, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Guelph. The service will be live-streamed for family and friends who are unable to attend. A reception will follow the service in the church hall.

The family would like to extend their deep and heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Alexopoulos and the nurses, PSWs, volunteers, and staff of Ontario Health at Home, Hospice Wellington, and the Hamilton ALS Clinic. Memorial donations in her name to the ALS Society of Canada or Hospice Wellington would be appreciated.

Mary O’Kane lived a life rich in love, loyalty, and laughter. Her presence will be deeply missed, her stories fondly remembered, and her love carried on by all who were lucky enough to call her family or friend.