In Memoriam

Gerald died peacefully on April 14, 2020, in Toronto. Gerry is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Ida; children Sharon and Bruce, Sc’86 (Anita); and grandson Bryce. Gerry had a long and fulfilling career as a civil engineer with Ontario Hydro. He was initially assigned to the expansion phase of the Sir Adam Beck hydroelectric power project in Niagara Falls, where much of his time was spent in underground civil construction as part of an undertaking by mining and civil infrastructure crews to construct a series of 50-foot-diameter tunnels. He was involved with numerous power-generating and transmission stations throughout the province, extending from the Winnipeg River in the northwest to the Abitibi River in the northeast and Lake Ontario to the south. Gerry’s happiest and most rewarding times were shared with family and friends. Gerry also valued his solitude and moments of quiet reflection, and is remembered for his congenial and thoughtful nature, wisdom, integrity, and consideration towards others. 

Merylin died Nov. 20. She was preceded in death by her husband, A. Colin McKinley, MD’58, and is survived by 
sons Dougal and Robbie, and two grandchildren. Merylin taught school for several years before becoming a homemaker who excelled at instilling a love of reading in her children, creating magical Christmas memories, and demonstrating how to persevere through challenges. Painting was a lifelong passion she pursued through classes, exhibiting, and volunteering with art galleries. She also knitted and quilted, creating prized family heirlooms. Her grandkids were crazy about their “Nana,” who always had fun things to do, treats not seen at home, “Nana rules,” and help with special projects. Her nephews remembered her for being a warm, supportive aunt with a great sense of humour. Both Merylin and Colin spoke lovingly about their time at Queen’s and gave back to the school through the A. Colin and Merylin E. McKinley Bursary to support medical students. Send condolences. 

John died peacefully at home on Nov. 3, 2020, at the age of 72. John treasured his family and will be dearly missed by his wife, Shirley, KGH Nursing ’71, and his children Geoff, Steph, Artsci/PHE’04 (Kyle Bournes, Artsci’04), and Andrew, of whom who he was immensely proud. John was the adoring “Grumps” to his grandchildren Linden, Rowan, and Juniper and his granddogs. He was also close to his cousin Steve Knox, Com’74, and his family, as well as a large extended family. John grew up in Kingston and went on to spend most of his career in the federal government, occupying several roles, most significantly as a senior program officer and policy analyst, investigating unfair trade practices by foreign exporters to Canada. While Ottawa was home, John considered himself a K-Town boy at heart. He was an athlete and a passionate sports fan. He had a cherished circle of friends from his school days in Kingston, his time at Queen’s, and his career in the federal government. Many of these friends visited him right up until he died of advanced prostate cancer. John was a faithful attendee at his class reunions and even managed to make it, virtually, to his 50th reunion, which brought him immense joy.

Bill died peacefully at home on July 31. After graduation from medical school and three years of family practice and pediatric residency, Bill began practice in Midland, Ont. He was truly an all-round practitioner; he performed minor surgical procedures and delivered hundreds of babies. He was a skilled clinician and educator dedicated to his patients and yet always remained humble. He was well-loved and active in the Georgian Bay community. Bill continued his love of hockey well into his 70s and developed his skills in sketching, woodworking, and model-boat building. Bill was devoted to his family: his wife, Hazel, five children, and 10 grandchildren.

Donald died on Nov. 25 in Kingston. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Linda; children Laura, David, Artsci’84, and Tim, Artsci’86; and extended family. Donald was predeceased by his first wife, Anna. Donald grew up in Kingston, attending Victoria Public School and KCVI (where he was head boy, 1947–1948) before studying at Queen’s. He was a caring doctor for generations of families. He had a longtime association with Hotel Dieu Hospital. His special projects through the years included property development of the Medical Arts Building and Ongwanada Hospital and serving as president of the Physicians’ Services Incorporated Foundation. He was awarded emeritus status by the Ontario College of Physicians. He had a most fulfilling life. His passions included baseball, hockey (he played for Queen’s as a student), golf, curling, and skiing.

Wayne died Nov. 17 with Leena, his wife of 52 years, by his side, following a lengthy battle with Lewy body dementia. Wayne is also survived by his children, Taina Phelan, Artsci’93 (Douglas Phelan, Com’92), and Maria Hypponen, Artsci’95, MA’98, and five grandchildren. Wayne is also missed by extended family members and friends in Canada and Finland. Born and raised in Montreal, Wayne studied engineering at McGill before pursuing his MBA at Queen’s. Wayne was a true gentleman; he had a kind and gentle soul as well as an impish sense of humour. He loved animals and soaking up some Vitamin D at the cottage. He was extremely proud of his Finnish heritage.