Josette Dianne McDonald

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Josette Dianne McDonald (nee LaPlante) on February 28, 2025, in Ottawa, Ontario, at the age of 85. Josette passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on August 5, 1939, Josette lived a life rich in family, love, and enduring devotion. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering support. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

Josette's life was a testament to her commitment to family. She was the beloved wife of Blaine McDonald, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and companionship. She was a cherished mother to Allison Darling (Bruce) and Michael McDonald (Debbie), providing them with unwavering love and guidance. She was immensely proud of her grandsons, Robert Suttie (Laura), Alex Suttie (Kendra), and Matthew Suttie, and delighted in her five great-grandchildren, with another soon to arrive. Her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Josette’s life was a testament to her compassionate spirit. She dedicated her career to nursing, finding immense fulfillment in caring for others. Her final years were spent at CHEO, where she lovingly tended to the “babies” under her care, a role that perfectly reflected her gentle and nurturing nature. Her legacy of kindness and care will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.

Beyond her immediate family, Josette maintained close and loving relationships with her sisters, Mary Clare Szabo and Michelle Cerenzia, who will deeply miss their beloved sister. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Joanne LaPlante and her brother Paul LaPlante.

A celebration of Josette's life will be held at a later date this spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Josette’s memory to the Ottawa Food Bank, The Ottawa Mission or Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

Josette will be deeply missed, but her love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.