Nikki (Ruth Margaret) MacKenzie (nee Nicholson) of Saanichton, BC, passed away peacefully on May 18th, 2016. A quiet family service was held for her in the forest of the Royal Oak Burial Park on May 24th.
Nikki is survived by her husband of 67 years, Bruce MacKenzie, as well as their four children, Ross (Lea) MacKenzie, Jan (Dave) McAmmond, Ian (Beth) MacKenzie, and Garth (Sue) MacKenzie. Nikki is also survived by her eleven grandchildren, Nicole (Craig), Robb (Galina), Matthew, Heather (Justin), Ryan, Shannon (Brian), Aaron, Kaytlyn (Matt), Daniel, Jake, and Chase; and by her six great-grandchildren, Kayla, Nicolas, David, Eric, Grace and Isla.
Nikki grew up in Luseland, Saskatchewan. Upon completing grade school, Nikki entered nursing at the University of Alberta and joined a public health team in Lethbridge, Alberta when she graduated. While at university, she met her future husband, Bruce MacKenzie, of Stettler, Alberta. After their marriage, they established a dental practice in Edmonton and set to raising four children. They remained there until 1975, at which time they moved to set up a new paediatric practice in Victoria B.C. Upon retirement, they moved to the Saanich Peninsula where they took to raising prize squash, holly, and twisted willows on their acreage. All along, Nikki and Bruce travelled the world together, often bringing family members along for the fun and adventure.
Nikki was known for her flare and vibrancy and expressed her creativity in everything she did. She dressed in style for every occasion, dressed each plate each time she served you, and decorated her home and garden with little treasures she had found along the way. She was as adept on horseback as she was on the dance floor and always lived life to the fullest.
Nikki was known for her kindness towards animals, often befriending feral cats. She and Bruce were huge supporters of the SPCA and in 2010, the SPCA recognized their generosity with the “Philanthropist of the Year” Award. Throughout their married life, Nikki and Bruce were also enthusiastic supporters of theatre, taking in many a show and supporting Victoria’s Belfry Theatre and the Canadian College for the Performing Arts. They also supported and encouraged the exploits of their children and grandchildren, taking great delight in their endeavors.
Nikki’s grandson, Matthew, describes her in this way:
“Nikki made you feel that what you did was worthwhile. She focused forward, on the positive, and encouraged others to do so. She gave support whenever things got dark, but wouldn’t dwell on the darkness. Blessedly eccentric, single minded, the furthest thing from boring—she was a no nonsense cowgirl who always shot from the hip, no matter the company or context. She had more personality in her pinky than most people have in their entirety. She shone bright in every storm—she shone bright even in the sunshine. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, force and friend of Nature. A singular being, a true Prairie Lily—Nikki MacKenzie.”
The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Nikki’s doctors and caregivers for their kind care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA.
Condolences to the family may be offered below.
McCall’s Funeral Home/Sequoia Gardens
www.mccallbros.com
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Cheryl Kress(Johanson)
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jill peacocke Dearest Bruce, Ian and Garth, Ross and Jan-(and families)- I was so saddened to hear the news about Nikki. I remember this vibrant, smiling positive force of energy- a beautiful being in every way. I remember walking into the Grandview house being greeted by Nikki- all smiles- magnified a zillion times by the mirrored hallways! When I was a little girl, I was so excited to go to the Mackenzie house-because of the warmth and love that permeated every layer.
May your hearts be held gently in love- You have all touched our lives in so many profound ways.
love always,
Jill Peacocke
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David and Gail Hamilton To Bruce and Jan: It was such a pleasure and privilege to meet with you in our home (and yours) and share the short time we had together. Nikki was an unforgetable personality and we value greatly our time spent chatting, remiscing and relating our shared experiences with her.
May God be with you and Bless you both over the coming days and give you peace, tranquility and solace in having known this remarkable lady.
David and Gail
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Debbie and Rick Boyd To Jan, Dave, Bruce, and the entire MacKenzie family: we were saddened to hear about Nikki’s death and will remember her wonderful spirit and personality, and the times we were able to spend with her. Her greatest legacy will be all of you; we have been privileged to get to know many of you over the years.
With our warm thoughts and very best wishes,Rick and Debbie Boyd
Dear Bruce, Jan, Ross, Ian, Garth and all other MacKenzie family members. It’s with great sadness we hear of Nikki’s passing. The whole Johanson family has wonderful memories of the Mackenzie family. We lived right across the street from each other and were always sharing houses, yards and treats. I especially remember how Nikki was always dressed so well and with flair. When we went over, we were always welcomed into the house by Nikki and I have to echo Jill Peacocke’s fond memories of the warm welcomes we received from her. She had a way of always making us feel at home.
Our Condolences to Everyone and I know your Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother will be sorely missed and Loved Always!
Cheryl Johanson for the Johanson Family