Dorothy McKenzie

Dorothy Viola McKenzie
1929 – 2021 Life goes on …
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Dorothy, on Sunday June 6th, 2021 in her 92nd
year (nee Holmberg) - peacefully at The Village of Humber Heights retirement home. Dorothy
was born March 12, 1929 in Sault Ste Marie, ON. Beloved wife of the late Charles McKenzie
(2017). Loving and cherished mother, she will be dearly missed by Bob McKenzie (Marion), and
daughter, Janice (George). Proceeded in death by daughter, Karen (Martin) and Ron McKenzie.
Endeared grandmother of Heather, Brian (Stephanie), Darcie (Danylo), Cassandra (Christopher)
& Jason. Survived by many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents
Robert & Aino (nee Siltanen) Holmberg, both of Finnish descent.
Dorothy was one of nine children. Her last remaining brother, Ron Holmberg, reminded us of
how much strength and wisdom she demonstrated throughout her life. At a tender age, not quite
two-years-old, Dorothy suffered a traumatic fall, breaking both eardrums and becoming
profoundly deaf. She attended Belleville School for the Deaf between the ages of seven and 21,
never losing her love of learning and all things creative. She was a talented artist and gifted
seamstress.
Dorothy briefly attended Ryerson, studying fashion design, but unfortunately, with no sign
language support, she was unable to continue. Instead, she applied her skills for the benefit of her
family & friends. She was definitely a fashionista before her time, creating her daughter’s
wedding gown and bridesmaids’ dresses, and when her first son married, she tailored his groom’s
suit. Dorothy was known for her delicious meals, bringing family together for lively dinner
discussions. The Christmas holiday was always the time to bake traditional Finland “Pulla”
(Coffee Bread), passed down from generation to generation. Dorothy was always in her crafts
room, fashioning mirrors with seashells or painting inspired vistas. She was also a patient and
inspiring teacher. Her claim to fame, she told her family, was when her school troupe of
Highland dancers performed for the Queen Mum.
Dorothy’s life will be celebrated with immediate family due to COVID-19 restrictions, at Ward
Funeral Home Weston Chapel on June 19th, 2021. The family would like to express their
gratitude to the staff at The Village of Humber Heights for their compassion and care of Dorothy
for many years. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish to do so may send memorial
donations to the Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf. Messages of
condolence and memories may be left at www.wardfuneralhome.com.


Effective March 15th, 2021, as per the mandate of the Bereavement Authority and to safely manage adhere to social distancing requirements.
Wearing of masks or face coverings by everyone is mandatory as per the Provincial Regulations.
Respecting the current situation and pandemic restrictions, the celebration of life will be private.
We thank you for your understanding and encourage you to provide your condolences to the family through her memorial page.