IN MEMORY OF SONIA MACKROW
Sonia Mackrow (nee Bell)
21 April, 1924 – 7 March, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our much loved mum, stepmum, gran, and great-gran, Sonia Mackrow, at the age of 100.
Sonia was born in Whitley Bay, Northumberland, England, the only child of Lewis and Florence Bell. She married John Atkinson in 1944 and together they raised their 4 children in England, Montreal, and South Africa. After John’s death, Sonia moved with her children for a fresh start in Canada in 1967. Here in West Vancouver she met and married Don Mackrow in 1980. They had 10 very happy and fun-filled years together, combining interests, hobbies, and families until Don’s death in 1991.
Sonia has been a role model, cheerleader, and anchor for our family. She had so many interests and a larger social circle than most people half her age. She was a dedicated member of the Unitarian Church for over 50 years. She was the longest serving volunteer at the West Van Library. As a voracious reader, she really enjoyed her Book Club. She could talk to anyone on any topic. She was tough and resilient as people of her generation needed to be. But also kind, wise, and blessed with a wonderful sense of humour to help her through some dark times.
She was predeceased by both husbands, by 2 of her children, Penny and Richard Atkinson, and by her granddaughter, Olivia.
She is survived by her daughter, Margaret, son Michael (Irene), stepdaughters Julie (Marty), and Lynn (Don). Also surviving her are her 12 precious grandchildren who she often said “give me hope for the world” and by 12 great-grandchildren. The kindness and attentiveness of many friends and neighbours allowed Sonia to remain in her home until the end of her life.
Her family is so very appreciative especially to the Marchands, to the Funts, to Flo, to Jean, to Otilia, to Dr. Paul Sugar, and many, many others for a thousand small kindnesses.
A Celebration of Sonia’s life will be held at the North Shore Unitarian Church. Saturday, April 5 at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Paul Sugar Palliative Support Foundation
Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
21 April, 1924 – 7 March, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our much loved mum, stepmum, gran, and great-gran, Sonia Mackrow, at the age of 100.
Sonia was born in Whitley Bay, Northumberland, England, the only child of Lewis and Florence Bell. She married John Atkinson in 1944 and together they raised their 4 children in England, Montreal, and South Africa. After John’s death, Sonia moved with her children for a fresh start in Canada in 1967. Here in West Vancouver she met and married Don Mackrow in 1980. They had 10 very happy and fun-filled years together, combining interests, hobbies, and families until Don’s death in 1991.
Sonia has been a role model, cheerleader, and anchor for our family. She had so many interests and a larger social circle than most people half her age. She was a dedicated member of the Unitarian Church for over 50 years. She was the longest serving volunteer at the West Van Library. As a voracious reader, she really enjoyed her Book Club. She could talk to anyone on any topic. She was tough and resilient as people of her generation needed to be. But also kind, wise, and blessed with a wonderful sense of humour to help her through some dark times.
She was predeceased by both husbands, by 2 of her children, Penny and Richard Atkinson, and by her granddaughter, Olivia.
She is survived by her daughter, Margaret, son Michael (Irene), stepdaughters Julie (Marty), and Lynn (Don). Also surviving her are her 12 precious grandchildren who she often said “give me hope for the world” and by 12 great-grandchildren. The kindness and attentiveness of many friends and neighbours allowed Sonia to remain in her home until the end of her life.
Her family is so very appreciative especially to the Marchands, to the Funts, to Flo, to Jean, to Otilia, to Dr. Paul Sugar, and many, many others for a thousand small kindnesses.
A Celebration of Sonia’s life will be held at the North Shore Unitarian Church. Saturday, April 5 at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Paul Sugar Palliative Support Foundation
Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
