Lawrence Duncan Mac Donald, affectionately called Lawrie, passed away peacefully on January 20, at the age of 66, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Toronto and always dreamed of raising his kids in Northern Ontario. Thunder Bay became his home for 35 years, where he focused on family, hard work, and enjoying nature. Throughout his career as a truck driver, Lawrie worked diligently hauling hazardous materials and later delivering oxygen to hospitals – a job that filled him with pride as he knew it made a difference. He was an active member of St. Margaret’s Parish and appreciated the sense of community there, along with the friendships he formed through the Knights of Columbus and Father Ciarán Donnelly. His grandchildren were his greatest joy; he loved them endlessly. Simple pleasures brought him happiness – he enjoyed watching the ships come and go through the grain elevators on Lake Superior. Lawrie is survived by his family: Barb, his wife of 27 years; their children Erica (Jay), who have grandchildren Jaiden, Zackery and Hailey; Brenda (Ryan); James (grandchildren Roark, Jordyn and Lynkon); John; Gini (Anthony) who has granddaughter Ada; and Frank, his best friend whom he considered a brother. He is also survived by siblings Scott (Melanie), Linda (Larry), Donna (John), and Dyan, along with many more extended family members. He was predeceased by his beloved parents Bob and Doreen Mac Donald. Lawrie will be remembered for being larger than life – loud in the best way possible with a laugh you could hear from far away. He loved sharing stories often more than once and had a special talent for captivating people’s attention. His presence lit up any room, making his absence profoundly felt.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire team on 1A, and to St. Joseph’s Hospice for their exceptional care and kindness. A celebration of life will take place in the spring with details coming later.
“Dad, you fought so hard for so long. We are ready to trade your pain for ours. Be free. We love you.”
Online condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
