Obituary of Mrs. Deirdre Anne McKenna

McKenna, Deirdre Anne (nee Kenny) - Born August 30, 1942 in Dublin, Ireland and died July 7, 2019 in Toronto after a brave struggle with vascular disease. Predeceased by her faithful husband Jim, her sister Frances and son in law Sean. Deirdre will be sadly missed by her devoted daughter Tracey (Scott), her loving grandchildren Patrick, Roisin and Declan, her cherished sister Stephanie (Dennis)and their children as well as her extended family in Ireland. Deirdre was a very proud Dubliner who loved everything Irish. She was a long time dedicated and humble volunteer in the Toronto Irish community. Keeping the story of the Irish in Grosse Ile alive was her passion. She was instrumental in petitioning the Federal government to recognize Grosse Ile as the Irish Memorial National Historic Site. Hence, Deirdre coordinated and led hundreds of people to visit Grosse Ile to preserve the story of Irish famine immigrants to Canada. She was known for her welcoming hospitality which she carried out with generosity and elegance.  The family would like to express their deep thanks to Dr. Shapiro, Dr. Rafilovich and team at GAIN, Dr. Torabi, Central LHIN Palliative team, Sunrise hospice staff, Sister Ann, Scott and Sharon for their care and compassion. Deirdre, until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand. Family will receive friends at the Ogden Funeral Home, 4164 Sheppard Ave., E. (East of kennedy Rd.), Scarborough on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Parish, 200 Morrish Rd. on Friday at 2 p.m. Interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Highland Creek Cemetery