The local lacrosse community lost one of its most recognizable and ardent supporters last week.
Annie McDonald passed away on Feb. 21 at the age of 82 at the Twin Oaks of Maryhill long-term care facility.
“It was quite a shocker … It’s a sad time,” said Kasey Beirnes, vice president of Centre Wellington Minor Lacrosse, several days after McDonald’s death.
A prominent figure in the Elora area, McDonald was named Elora citizen of the year in 1993, and was respected by many for her dedication to her family.
“Her greatest accomplishments were her kids and grandkids – she loved them all dearly,” stated her obituary.
To those outside her family, McDonald was perhaps best known for her volunteer efforts for the sport of lacrosse.
“She was the backbone of Elora Minor Lacrosse,” Beirnes told the Advertiser.
Having grown up playing lacrosse in Elora and also working at the arena, Beirnes said McDonald spent countless hours at the facility.
“She was always trying to entice kids during the hockey season to come out and try lacrosse,” said Beirnes. “And she promoted lacrosse any way she could.”
A longtime volunteer with minor Mohawk Lacrosse, including many years as president, McDonald was named a member of the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1994 and was lifetime member of Elora Mohawk Jr. B Lacrosse.
Beirnes noted a sign that reads “We love you Annie McDonald, from your entire Elora Mohawk Family!” was placed in front of the Elora arena after McDonald’s passing, likely under the direction of Gerald Benham, another familiar face in the local lacrosse community.
Beirnes added the boardroom inside the arena is named after McDonald.
“That’s an example of how she influenced the community,” he said.
Predeceased by her husband Earl (1994) and two children in infancy, McDonald leaves behind five children, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Her funeral was held at Knox Presbyterian Church in Elora on Feb. 25. Memorial donations in her name may be made to War Amps of Ontario or the Elora Legion.
