Obituary of Mary Doneff

Mary Lena Doneff peacefully passed away at her residence in Lethbridge, Alberta, in the early evening of January 27, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. She was 96 years old.

Mary was born on January 30, 1927 to Robert and Lena Meier and was one of 12 children raised on their farm near Consort, Alberta. Her life took a beautiful turn when she met and married her deepest love, George Doneff. Together, they established their own farm near Kirriemuir, Alberta, where Mary dedicated her life to working alongside George on the farm and nurturing their three children. The couple relocated to Lethbridge, Alberta in 1986, and officially retired from farming in 2004. They cherished their golden years basking in the joy of an expanding family, complete with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sadly, Mary lost George to cancer in 2008.

Mary's 96 years exemplified kindness, compassion, generosity, and love. She never hesitated to extend her helping hand to both people and animals alike, with her family always her highest priority. She never turned down a good cup of coffee and a great conversation at the kitchen table and didn’t mind a trip to the casino every now and then!

Survived by her son, John (Sandra) Doneff; daughter, Helen Grant; and son, Murray (Carol) Doneff, Mary leaves behind a legacy that includes grandchildren, Colin (Tanya) Doneff, Corey Doneff, Angela (Robert) Brown, Ronald Grant, Leigh Grant, Orin (Holly) Doneff, Cassidy (Stefanie) Doneff, Trinity Doneff, Emma Doneff; and great-grandchildren, Michael (Taylor) Doneff, Carley (Brenden) Schafer, Samson Doneff, David Doneff, Chamberlain Doneff, Wesley Doneff, Tatum Doneff, and Ayuen Doneff. Mary was predeceased by her husband, George Doneff; and son-in-law, Clinton Grant.

Mary will be dearly missed by her family and friends, as she was truly loved and adored by everyone fortunate enough to know her. Mary’s soul was among the purest to have ever graced this earth and she will now grace the heavens with George, again by her side. 

A private family graveside service will take place at the Kirriemuir Cemetery.