On April 22, a beautiful soul was taken from us for reasons we will never understand. Jennifer MacNeill (MacRae) passed away surrounded by loved ones at the age of forty-three.
Jen was born in Thunder Bay to Gerald and Joyce MacRae in 1974 and moved to Dryden in 1978. She attended Sprucedale and Dryden High School, forming many friendships that lasted long after. After high school, it was off to the University of Ottawa to achieve her Bachelor of Science of which she was very proud.
Scott MacNeill was the lucky guy to have her hand in marriage in 2001. They started their life together in Vermilion Bay, having two children, Abigail and Eric. Those two brought out a sparkle in her eyes that would not dim. They settled in the Oxdrift area where neighbours welcomed them with open arms.
Jen was so passionate in all her endeavors. She wanted to, and did, excel in every career move made. From the Ear Falls sawmill, to the Credit Union, to the Administration office at Dryden City Hall. Her true love was crafting. If it was on Pinterest, Jen had to at least attempt it. Many of the finished products ended up being gifts, which were “more personal” in her words. Although Jen considered herself a home body, she loved to travel, the trips were always organized by her. More recent trips to New York and Las Vegas with her sister Cora and Warren, were so special.
Jen will be deeply missed by her family; Scott, Abby and Eric, sister Cora MacRae and Warren Kroeker, father Gerald MacRae and mother in law Peggy MacNeill. Sue and Johnny Hudhomet, Patti and Dale Painter, Julie and Terry Leefe, Marty and Leanne Leefe, Erik and Brandi Leefe. All her nieces and nephews were dear to her heart, Bryce and Keaton, Matthew and Megan, Reed and Lane, Josh and Maddie, Lilly and Ivar and most recently little Braxton. Jen touched the lives of her numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Jen was predeceased by her mom, Joyce MacRae.
Special thanks to the nurses in oncology, home care nurse Andrea, all the staff at DRHC and her “favourite nurse” Tracie. She loved her many visits with Lynn, Janelle, Mel and Shelly’s help was appreciated so much. The love and support from neighbours, friends, coworkers and family through Jen’s battle was overwhelming. We will miss you Honey, but you will always be in our hearts.
“If I could save time in a bottle, the first thing that I’d like to do, is to save every day, til eternity passes away, just to spend them with you.” Jim Croce
A Private Family Service will be held at a later date.
If friends so desire donations may be made to the DRHC Oncology Unit though Stevens Funeral Homes P.O Box 412, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z1. Condolences may be posted at www.stevensfuneralhomes.ca.