Elaine MacDonald, age 82, died suddenly on November 6th, 2015. Elaine lived for over 50 years in Upper St. Clair, PA and moved to Wayland, MA in 2012 to be closer to her daughters. She is the beloved mother of Cathy Lunger and husband Joel, Nan Alexander and husband Ron, and leaves six grandchildren, Kelly, Jackie, Kenyon, Jodie, Lauren, and Josh, all of Wellesley, MA. She also leaves many dear friends in Pittsburgh.
Elaine was always a proud Canadian. She grew up in Toronto, the daughter of Horace W. Waller and Marjorie Carroll, along with her brother Bob and sister Nan (“Auntie Nan”), all of whom predecease her. She had very fond memories of living in the Royal York Fairmont hotel, when her father worked there as assistant general manager.
At 24, Elaine moved to San Francisco where she met her future husband, Kenyon F. MacDonald. Married in 1959, they had three children, Cathy, Cameron, and Nan. Tragically, Cameron died of leukemia in 1965, before children could be cured and his death represented her single most enduring heartbreak. Her former husband, Kenyon, and dear companion Bob O’Keefe both predecease her.
Elaine was a thoroughly modern and independent woman who was always there for a laugh or a witty remark – often about politics. Like many of her generation, she practiced the lost art of parenting through “benign neglect,” but was always there to offer a shoulder. Friends from miles around sought advice and comfort from her wisdom and support, which she gave generously and without judgment. She serves as an inspiration to all when she said her favorite time in life was in her 50s when her kids were grown and she had time to enjoy life.
Elaine loved playing golf and tennis, reading trashy biographies, doing the NY Time crossword puzzle, and enjoying a hearty laugh with family and friends. She also made sure that all of her grandchildren became Canadian citizens so that we could escape this country if things got too crazy and everyone had “options.” Elaine will be sorely missed. Cathy and Nan will particularly miss their Thursday dinners together, which they cherished beyond measure these last three years.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be directed to Upper S. Clair township public library, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road as she spent so much time there. Visiting hours will be held at George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA, Monday, November 9, 2015 from 5 pm – 7 pm. Family and friends are warmly welcome.