Olive MacDonald
June 25th, 2023
Olive MacDonald (nee Amichand) April,1943 - June 25, 2023
Our beloved Olive slipped silently and peacefully into the love and light of God on June 25, after a month of illness. She was born in Barrackpore, Trinidad and Tobago, and was raised in her thriving East Indian community. The church was very important to Olive and her family and continued to be, throughout her life. Olive came to Regina in 1964 to attend university, and had many adventures as a new immigrant. Soon, Olive fell in love with and got married to Bruce. She finished her BA and started working in libraries in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Olive went to England with Bruce and they were blessed with their two lovely children. Coming back to Regina, Olive stayed home with her kids for a few years, before continuing her career at the Provincial Library and then the Saskatchewan Agriculture Library where she held very responsible positions for many decades. Olive was active in the United Church of Canada, volunteering in many positions including Sunday School teacher, coordinator of the Social Justice Committee, and visitor of new members. She also volunteered in read to inner city children and to tutor adult immigrants in English, count frogs, etc. She was an artist at cooking Trinidadian and other foods! She always loved her garden, including their community garden in Regina, and found joy in the simple beauty of nature. She liked to read and take university classes, and enjoyed making needlepoint, knitting and crocheting while listening to novels and inspirational books, as well as other hobbies. Although she loved her quiet times, Olive loved connecting with her family and community, and was friendly to everyone she met. With Bruce and their children, Olive camped across Canada and travelled the world, visiting loved ones and exploring many countries! Her favourite visits were to New Zealand and Guelph to spend time with her cherished grandson Gulliver and family. She treasured the special visit they had together in February this year, passing on their shared Trinidadian culture and family history to Gulliver.
Olive is survived by her husband Bruce, daughter Rachel, son David (and his wife Dana), grandson Gulliver, and sister Sybil. She was predeceased by her parents, John Benjamin and Carmen Amichand, her brothers Lionel, Clarence, Don, and Ivan, her sister Esther and many other loved ones. She is also remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews, in laws, friends and colleagues, and we all cherish the beautiful, kind and gentle soul of our dear Olive. She touched the world with friendliness, curiosity, love and kindness, and we are so grateful to have had her with us for so long.
We love you, Olive, Mom. See you again one day!
Messages:
I remember Olive as our librarian here at Ag - so I plan to make a donation to the Regina Public Library in her memory.
We were sad to hear of Olive's passing. We remember the times we met at Luther College events. Although we did not meet often, we will remember her smile and friendly natuee. David and Marlys Kaiser
Dear Bruce: My sincere condolences. I always enjoyed meeting you and Olive at various Luther College events, and at the Regina Farmer's Market. May good memories and the support of family and friends be a comfort to you as you mourn the loss of your beloved wife.
Rachel is a beloved member of my church. I met Olive several times at various church functions. She was gentle and friendly, exuding a sense of peace and optimism. I appreciated her passion for social justice, and compassion and care for all. How you will miss her loving presence. I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to you, Rachel and Bruce, and David and family.
Our family has known Olive, Bruce and her siblings for many years since she arrived in Canada. Our condolences for your loss.
Although we both worked at Provincial Library (at different times) I knew Olive through her work at the Sask Agriculture Library. She was the loveliest person. We often chatted at library conferences. She was so enthusiastic about libraries and her work there. I'm sorry to hear of her passing. My condolences to her Bruce and her family.
Bruce, Rachel David and extended family. So sorry to hear about Olive’s passing. She was a wonderful mother, aunt and grandmother. Thinking about you during this time. Love Lily Thomas and Trevor Ewen
Rachel, I am so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. I always thought she was such a lovely person. I could see why you were so proud when you introduced her to us. I learned so much about her life at the lovely service you planned for her. Many hugs to you in these challenging days.