Rina Macdonald

It is with sadness that the family of Rina Macdonald (nee Pescara) announce her passing on November 17, 2024 in her 93rd year. Rina was born in Popoli, Italy on March 7, 1932 and was excited to move to “America”, with her family, in 1953. Upon coming to Canada, she met and married Norman “Norm” Allan Macdonald (predeceased in 2011). Throughout their 57 years of marriage, Rina was deeply cherished by Norm.

Rina will be missed by her children Alan Macdonald (Margaret), Sabrina Ingram (Terry), and Jacqueline “Jackie” Keatings (Steve Hawken). She was a loving Nonna to Caitlin Bergeron (Steve), Cameron Macdonald (Ashley Dining), Dylan Caldwell, Elise Harrison (Keith), Sarah Caldwell (Jon Dayus), and Michelle Coe (John). Her great-grandchildren are Alana and Genevieve Bergeron, Victoria Harrison, and baby Coe (arriving in January). She was dearly loved by her sister, Piera “Pat” Castellano (Antonio “Tony”). As well, she leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Emilia Castricone, Nikola Pescara, her brother, Ronaldo Pescara, and her nephew, Ron Castellano.

Rina was renowned for her beauty. She spoke Italian and English fluently. Rina worked as a bank teller. She was an excellent seamstress and an amazing cook. She enjoyed catering huge parties with her bestie, Shirley Schuetz. She liked gardening and was always up for an afternoon of shopping. Rina’s Christian faith was central to her life and she was actively involved in the Presbyterian congregations she attended (St. Stephen’s, Weston; Trinity, York Mills; St. Andrew’s, Mansfield; and Essa Rd., Barrie).

During the last 15 years, Rina’s life was stolen by Alzheimer’s. Those years were spent in the IOOF Nursing Home in Barrie. We are immensely grateful to the wonderful staff for the excellent care given to her. Donations may be made in her memory to the IOOF, 10 Brook St, Barrie, Ontario. L4N 5L3.

A private family service is being held, with Rev. Dr. Terry Ingram presiding. Rina will be interred beside Norm in Barrie Union Cemetery. May she rest in peace. Livestream available at https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=e16d1a0e-f166-411e-86f3-fe9e37f31345