Sheila Audrey McKelvie (nee O’Donnell), born February 15, 1937, in Fort Frances, Ontario, passed away June 8, 2022, at the Georgian Manor in Penetanguishene, Ontario.
Sheila was also known as “Shal,” Sheila-La, Grama Sheila, Great-Grama, Mom, Sister, Auntie and “friend” to many.
Predeceased by her parents, James O’Donnell and Lydia Lyons of Doaktown, N.B.
She is also predeceased by her sister Margaret Thomson, who passed on August 12, 2012, and Margie’s husband Gary Thomson, who passed on February 20, 2018.
Also predeceased by the father of her children, Ernest William McKelvie (October 5, 1932), who passed on November 11, 2013
Children of Sheila and Ernie are Blake McKelvie of Fort Frances, Brad of Calgary, Alta., and Lisa Landry (Jacques) also of Calgary.
Sheila absolutely loved and cherished her grandchildren Jamie McKelvie of Fort Frances, Curtis Jacques of Owen Sound, Brittney Jacques of Calgary, Paige McKelvie of Calgary, and great-grandchildren Alex and Brielle McKelvie. She also leaves behind bonus grandchildren Crystal Hall, Shawn Shetty and great-grandchildren Liam; also Tonya (Hall) and Matt Rumas whose parents are Gordon and Terry Hall – from her partnership with Charles Hall, who passed June 24, 2011.
Sheila worked as a secretary for Fort Frances Hydro, then moved to Leamington, Ontario. Sheila was very active in Beta Sigma Phi and had many lifelong girlfriends because of this organization.
She finally settled in Midland, Ontario, where she worked as a secretary at Walkers Electric and finished off her career as an associate at Zeller’s department store. Many people recognize Sheila around town due to her caring, helpful and friendly disposition with all customers she encountered.
Every year, up until 2017, after leaving Fort Frances she would return to celebrate Canada Day (July 1) with many friends that also returned or remained in Fort Frances. It was the always the highlight of her year and she looked forward to the drive north and visiting.
In 2015 Sheila was diagnosed with dementia and moved from her home in Sunnyside to the Villa and then settling at Georgian Manor Willow unit from 2016 until her passing in June 2022.
Sheila was known for her amazing Christmas present butter tarts, lemon meringue pie, apple and pumpkin pie and her tia Maria. As well, Sheila and her girlfriend Ilona Gustavson made the best perogies and cabbage rolls.
She often enjoyed her “OV” beer on the beach.
Her grandchildren best remember the bag chip truck French fries with plenty of ketchup.
Sheila’s spunky, happy-go-lucky, thoughtful, kind, caring and fun personality will be fondly remembered by all.
Sheila is now resting at peace, no more pain, no more suffering and no more dementia.
Sheila will be greatly and dearly missed
Until we see you again .. WE LOVE YOU .. Mom, Grama, great Grama, Auntie, girlfriend and friend
