Obituary of Margaret d'Esterre
We are saddened to announce the passing of Margaret d’Esterre in her 94th year on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 peacefully at home. Meg is predeceased by her husband John. She was a dedicated mother to her son John, and daughters Valerie (Joe Godin), Jane (Mike McDougall), Marion (Peter Rubens). So named for her love of spinning yarn, she also took on the role of a loving “Spinma” to Robyn (Paul), Kenzie, Reid (Stephanie), Calvin and Claire and to her great grandchildren Oliver, Margaux, Elliot and Ruby. Throughout her rich life, Meg wielded an adventurous yet practical spirit. Self-sufficiency was a major facet of the life she and John shared, and she continually sought new skills and knowledge in order to face new challenges. Meg took navigation courses to cruise local waters and distant seas, even becoming a competent welder to help build the vessels. She was also a master of the textile arts, and even became a beekeeper so together she and John could produce their own honey. When their son John Jr. was born with a genetic disorder, instead of following the common practice of institutionalization, Meg and John chose to raise him at home and help him find his place in his community. Together, Meg and John also shared the commitment to preserving the beauty and legacy of Garden Island so that others could enjoy it as they did. Meg deeply valued her friendships within her Garden Island family, through her spinning and knitting groups and through her volunteer work at the Great Lakes Marine Museum at Kingston.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the many PSWs and nurses that tenderly cared for Meg in the comfort of her home. In particular, Natalice gave her the gift of love and companionship (and even the occasional pedicure). The family also wishes to thank the Connel 9 and Emergency Department staff for their care and kindness during Meg’s stay at K.G.H.
In keeping with Meg’s wishes there will be no memorial service but that's not to say we can't quietly celebrate her wonderful life in our own ways.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston or Community Living Kingston.
