“We are all just walking each other home.” Rumi
With deepest joy at having known him and in gratitude for his life, the family and friends of Rodney James McDonald announce his passing on August 15, 2020 in the Grey Nun’s Palliative Care Unit in Edmonton, Alberta. Rod celebrated his 65th birthday on April 18 of this year, and lived an incredible life full of humour, creativity, and kindness for everyone he knew: strangers and friends alike. In the last year of his life, Rod opened his heart in a special way to those around him, some of whom he has known since his childhood growing up in Camrose. Rod’s special talent for ‘doing things right’ and helping others learn blessed many with a love for beauty and growing things, especially those who met him at Edmonton area farmers markets through his herb-growing business, Marigold Greenhouse. Along with his many friends, songs, and works of art, Rod is survived by his beloved partner Mary Jane; daughters Kila, Keltie, Ruhamah and Michal; his son Symon; and nine beautiful grandchildren. An open mike event to celebrate Rod’s life will be hosted on September 6, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at: #121-20212 Township Road 510. If you are interested in participating please contact Joanne Van Beek at Circles and Ceremonies . If you wish to make a donation in honour of Rod’s life, please contribute to the Bailey Theatre in Camrose at: https://www.baileytheatre.com/donations.html OR support a local folk musician of your choice. Donations for local musicians will also be accepted at the Open Mike event on September 6.
Tara Peterson says
Because someone we love is in Heaven, there is a little bit of Heaven in all of us! I have some wonderful memories of my friendship with Rod through my High School years and my home town of Camrose, Alberta AND Group W! Love you, Rod !
Love Tara Peterson
Brian Parsons says
I am saddened and shocked to hear of Rod’s passing. I am glad to have known Rod through the Uptown Folk club and enjoyed jamming with him. The last time we spoke Rod said he was excited about moving to Edmonton and I was looking forward to seeing him. Rod’s energy, good will and love will live on in all those who knew him. My condolences to Rod’s family and friends. Hold on to your good memories of Rod. I am sure you have many.
Brian Parsons
Cathy Gerelus says
I’m sorry to hear about Rod’s passing. May his memory live in those of who knew him.
Pam Waterston says
Rod has held space as a dear, dear part of my Circle for forty years. I will continue to hold his space… truly irreplaceable. I will never forget “His Rodlyness”
Cindy Schumacher-Smith says
My condolences on the loss of Rod, to all his family. I’ve known Rod since I was about 17 and have many fond memories of Camrose, the births of Kyla and Keltie and numerous other memories, too many to share. I also know his brother, Lyle. We were in the same class in grade 8.
Karen Mandseth says
Knew Rod for 48 years plus
Many a good time in his house across the tracks in Camrose with group w.never to forget . Was a great friend will be sorrily missed but forever in my heart. Will miss him 😂
Lynn Beaupre says
I am so saddened to hear of Rod’s passing.
I enjoyed his friendship in both Camrose and Grande Prairie days, and was fortunate to reconnect with him and to meet Mary Jane, in 2016 in Camrose.
It was beautiful to see the love and respect that Rod and Mary Jane had for each other. Such an amazing partnership. Such a huge loss for all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Rod.
Willis Medling says
Yes, I love this place