McKee, Ivan K.

May 5, 1960 – May 3, 2021

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Ivan McKee on May 3, 2021 at Health Sciences North at the age of 60. Beloved husband of Nicole, devoted dad to Kristeen (James) and Kayla (Justin). Proud Papie to Anella, Amileah, Logan, Aiden, Auley, and Edie. Dear son of Rita (nee Collin) and the late Keith McKee. Loving brother of Monique (Luc), Carole (Bill), and Michael (Line). Dear son-in-law to Lucien and Lilliane Poulin (both predeceased). He will be dearly missed by the Poulin family: Armand (his late wife Jeannette), Maureen (Dale), Robert (Rita), Denise (Daniel), Denis, Collette (Clement), Roger, Donald, Bernard (predeceased) and sister-in-law Joanne. He will be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Ivan had a distinct sense of style in both clothing and music.  A man blessed with many talents who worked tirelessly in his barn which he built with the help of a friend. He was an avid gardener, a skilled heavy-duty equipment mechanic, and a proud volunteer firefighter. Ivan was also creative. He was an excellent storyteller, he sketched beautiful cards for his family at Christmastime, and created all sorts of beautiful gifts with his hands. His drive and passion continue to inspire us all. We are grateful to the staff at the Alzheimer Society Sudbury-Manitoulin North Bay & Districts for giving Ivan a sense of purpose when he was first diagnosed with Dementia. Ivan looked forward to attending the day program and interacting with his buddies. As the disease progressed, Ivan’s needs intensified. The care and companionship he received from personal support care workers with Bayshore and Canadian Shield was well appreciated. We are also grateful to his brother-in-law Denis and sister in-law Joanne for spending many evenings by his side. When Ivan moved to his new home at the Elizabeth Centre, he was well-cared-for by a number of hard-working nurses and personal support workers. We are especially thankful to his roommate Gerry who looked out for Ivan on many occasions (we’ll miss you, Ger!). Finally, we wish to thank the nurses at HSN who cared for all of us during Ivan’s final days. If you so desire, please donate to Parkinson Canada (https://www.parkinson.ca/) in memory of our dear Ivan. The family will give Ivan the send-off he deserves when it is safe to gather.

Heaven gained a cowboy, and they must be so happy Even though down here we will miss you, Papie Holding your hand, kissing your head as tears roll down my eyes I never knew how difficult it would be to say the last goodbye The sad empty feeling of not having you around, dad I'll never truly understand and can't imagine not being sad I know the day will come where I'll put your classic country on And sing along to all your favorite Buck Owens’ songs Even though we sang them a million times before I can't imagine listening now without it hurting my very core Thank you for showing me all the things you did Teaching me right from wrong and who I was since just a kid I’ll always cherish memories of the great man I loved and knew May your love always live in our hearts, forever strong and true.

~ Kayla McKee ~