Ida Gladys McDonald

Ida Gladys Ralph began her 103 year journey in Wandsworth Saskatchewan on October 12, 1921. Welcomed by parents Armitage and Dorothy Ralph, sister Isabel, and brothers James and Ronald. Ida passed away in Christine Morrison Hospice on April 1, 2025.

Ida was always so proud of her Saskatchewan roots despite living through very tough times. Her lifelong ambition was to be a teacher, she fulfilled this role in Saskatchewan as well as several locations in BC. She spent her last 18 years at South Poplar Elementary.

When teaching at Dry Creek Sask. She met Elmer Storey and together they travelled to Fort Langley where they were married in July 1943. They lived in Cloverdale, Langley, Aldergrove before moving to Abbotsford for Elmer's work at the Milk Plant and daughter Marlene (1947) and son Lyle (1950) could go to school. Sadly, in 1978 Elmer passed away but Ida stayed in the family home.

Physically, Ida was always doing something. She was a member of the Bowling Alley, The Curling Club and a force to be reckoned with on the golf course. Some never get a hole in one, she had 5.

Ida married Don McDonald in 1986. Together they thoroughly enjoyed her beloved Canucks, witnessed the start of the Whitecaps and heard those Lions roar...

She was so proud to have travelled to all of Canada including the Territories from coast to coast to coast. With her sister she visited Australia, California and the Mediterranean. With Marlene's family she holidayed in Mexico. When Ida was widowed again in 1987 and in her 70's she became a hostess on bus trips to cultural events.

Ida was a Life Member of Trinity United Church, Abbotsford Retired Teachers and the Order of Royal Purple.

Christmas Day 2013 Ida's life changed. She was hospitalized for over 4 months and reluctantly gave up condo living for Hallmark on the Park. There she delighted in making crocheted or knitted garments that found their way to families in Guatemala. She still liked to read but never missed a Curling match or a Canucks game on TV.

October 12, 2021 was celebrated with a small gathering and Ida was so proud to receive so many letters of congratulations, especially the one from Queen Elizabeth II.

Ida is survived by daughter Marlene, her children Lanie (Kevin) and Robert (Tracey) and their families and son, Lyle; his children Chad and Shilo and their families. There are 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a private graveside service for Ida on April 11, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.