June 20, 1925 – February 7, 2024
It is with great sadness that the family of Anson McKinley announces his passing on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, in Zurich, in his 99th year. He died peacefully surrounded by his family. Anson was predeceased by his beautiful and loving wife of 72 years, Evelyn (nee Johns).
Anson will be lovingly remembered by his children Larry McKinley and Elizabete David, Karen Ratcliffe, Cathy McKinley and John Hoover, Mary Lou Thomson and the late Robin Thomson and Donna Steck and the late Brian Steck; his grandchildren Warren and Alana McKinley, Kelly (Olivier St Maurice), Megan (Stephen Muir), Emily (John Berger) and David Ratcliffe (Heather Waters), Josh (Magnolia Pauker), Alexandra and Mac (Inna) Hoover, Nikki (James Gunn) and Michael Thomson and Ethan and Steve (Amanda) Steck; and, his great grandchildren Grayson and Neve McKinley-Burns, Colton, Addison and Gabriel St. Maurice, Owen Waters, Douglas Muir, Jackson, Wyatt and Logan Berger, Olin, Tegel, Abigail, Emilia and Michael Hoover, Otis, Finlay and Heather Gunn, and Max, Jude, Jimi and Bodhi Steck. He will be missed by his siblings and in-laws Jean Fanson, Berne and Doris McKinley, Stanley and June Johns, Willard King, and Gordon and Diane Johns. He is predeceased by Eleanor Reibling-King, Lloyd Reibling, Bob and Audrey McKinley, and Ken Fanson. He will be remembered by former sons-in-law Dale Ratcliffe and Doug McKenzie, along with his many nieces and nephews.
Anson married his love, Evelyn, on May 15, 1948, in a church filled with cherry blossoms picked by Evelyn and red and yellow roses from Anson. Their home was always filled with laughter, home cooked meals, family and friends. In later years Evelyn and Anson spent many happy months together in their home in Florida. Here the food, lodging and warm conversation, provided a haven for many cold northerners. Anson took up golf in his sixties and was overjoyed at getting his first set of new clubs for his 70th birthday. He regularly played with family and friends and practiced almost constantly – even hitting balls with his wedge, in the evenings on the farm.
Anson’s biggest regret was having to leave high school to return to work on the farm when WW II broke-out. He was determined to educate himself. He read everything and had subscriptions to both the Economist and Forbes magazines. Evelyn often had to call more than once to penetrate his concentration, as he stole some reading time before a meal.
In the 1970s, when OMAF needed part-time field staff to monitor the results of the Junior Farmer Loan program, Anson jumped at the chance. He wanted to not just monitor but to mentor these young farmers. He cared about their success and helped many to weather high interest rates and low commodity prices.
As Reeve of Stanley Township, Anson led the Council in planning for the future. Despite opposition, he spearheaded the purchase of a farm so the municipality would have a site to safely store equipment, provide for residential landfill requirements and be a center for community activities including meeting facilities, baseball diamond, play area and nature trails. The Varna Complex is today a vibrant and important part of the community. He observed Lake Huron waterfront being sold for development and was concerned that township residents would not have access to the beach. He persuaded Council to purchase property on Pavilion Rd and build a pavilion with bathroom and picnic facilities and a trail to the sand and water. Anson was a past Warden of Huron County.
He was honest and fair in all his business dealings and was proud of his part in the building and success of McKinley Farms and Hatchery.
Anson’s long list of interests included: being a lay minister active in the Zurich, Varna and Brucefield United Churches; being a long-time member and former Grand Master of the Hensall Masonic Lodge and he used the square and compass as measures in his own life; and, being a voracious reader searching for knowledge.
A special thank you to Katie Nixon for her care and devotion to Dad’s quality of life. We are grateful for the contributions to Dad’s enjoyment of life by the wonderful staff at One Care and Blue Water Rest Home.
He was fair, loving and kind to family and friends.
Visitation will be held at Brucefield Community United Church, 10 London Road, BRUCEFIELD on Monday, February 12th from 12:30 – 1:30 PM, where Anson’s funeral service will be held at 2 PM with Pastor Paul Vollick officiating. Spring interment, Bayfield Cemetery.
Donations to Blue Water Rest Home, Brucefield Community United Church or the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Ron & June Corriveau
Larry, Karen, Mary Lou, Cathy, Donna & families:
Our sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad, it was a life well lived. He was a very well respected man who left a legacy of his family and a huge contribution to his community of Stanley Twp and beyond. Sorry for your loss
Diane Klopp
Dear Karen
He was a true gentleman.
My sincere condolences
Diane Klopp
Patty & Joey Groot
Karen & Family;
Sincere condolences to you and your family.
Linda Pavlinec and family.
Prayers and thoughts are with you all at this sad time in the passing of your dad. Remember going down and visiting at your farm when I was young and having them visit and help us when down in Florida.
Julie Armstrong
A life well lived. Sincere condolences to the McKinley family. May he rest in peace.
Mahlon and Pearl Ann Martin
To the Anson McKinley family, Our sincere condolences to the McKinley family as you grieve your loss….
May our Loving Heavenly Father surround you with his comfort and peace, as you go through this difficult time, Love and Prayers….Mahlon & Pearl Ann Martin
Don Brodie
Thinking of you. I was on Stanley Township with Anson which I enjoyed his friendship.
Sincere Sympathy. Don Brodie
Dawne Erb
Karen and McKinley family
So sorry to hear of Anson’s passing. May your treasured memories bring you comfort. Dawne & Merv Erb
A remarkable man is gone now
And this world seems a little lessened somehow
Because he is not a part of it.
A little less wise and great,
A little less good and brave.
May it help to know that he will never be forgotten
By those whose lives he touched
And may your own cherished memories always bring you comfort.
Carol LeBeau
My sincere condolences to Anson’s family. The first wedding I ever attended was at Turner’s Church, for Anson and Evelyn. I was just a little girl, but it certainly made a lasting memory for me. How consoling to think that they are back together once again.
Keeping you in my prayers
Carol LeBeau
Cheryl Litt
Sincere condolences to Anson’s family. I hope all your memories of such a wonderful father & grandfather bring you comfort at this sad time.
Cheryl (Peck)
Wayne &Bonnie Keller
Sorry to hear of Anson passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Wayne &Bonnie
Tom/Twyla Phillips
Larry, Karen, Cathy, Mary Lou, Donna and families
Thinking of you as you mourn the loss of your father, yet celebrate a life well lived.
Sincere condolences
Tom and Twyla Phillips
JimKnox
Sincere Condolences Thinking of you all
Jim Jane Knox and Family
Richard & Brenda Schilbe
Deepest sympathy to the McKinley family.
Shelley McGavin
Our sincere condolences as you mourn Anson. I fondly remember the story of my Mom and Dad meeting while working for your Mom and Dad. It was so nice to visit with both of them when coming to BWRH to visit Mom.
Please know we are thinking of you
Brian and Shelley (Finlayson) McGavin
Dianne De Wys and family
My heartfelt sympathy to Karen and the rest of the family. Always exchanged a greeting at BWRH each month.
Evert and Joan Elliott Van Sligtenhorst
Our sympathy to all the family of Anson. What a memory of a very unforgettable man and an example to us all . Few have the love and the life that he had. I always appreciate how much he did to help my dad. as they worked out in the field with four row bean pullers in a century of so much change.
Ken Johns
I have nothing but fond teen-age memories of summer family gatherings at the McKinley farm in the early 60’s, particularly the many half chickens Anson could barbecue in a brick BBQ pit built in the driveway, and basting them with Evelyn’s unique and delicious BBQ sauce. And I was always amazed at how effectively Anson could debate a subject (OK, usually politics) with anyone willing to take him on. He had a wonderful mix of personality, charm, intellect, and a memorable robust laugh that would periodically fill the room he was in. He was an inspiration, and obviously made a positive impact on the lives of many people in his life. Sending my sincere condolences to my second cousins Larry, Karen, Cathy, Mary Lou, and Donna, and their families.
Dianne Waun
Thinking of all of you during this sad chapter in your lives, McKinley family. Your wonderful memories will be treasures, and will bring you comfort as your beautiful and proud parents are looking down on you – together again.
Dianne (Peck)
Blue Water Rest Home
Sending condolences on behalf of the Residents, Staff and Board at Blue Water Rest Home. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Robert and Alma Westlake
Larry, Karen, Mary-Lou, Cathy, Donna;
Our sincere sympathy to each of you!
Your father was a dedicated family man, parishioner, and community member.
Cherish your memories!
Robert and Alma Westlake
Agnes Lempriere
Dear family. It was a pleasure to know Anson. A very generous and honest man. From my family to yours we offer our most sincere condolences.
Larry Johns
Sincere condolences to the many relatives and friends of Anson. I will always remember him as a man whose presence could fill a room with his strong voice, his vision and his kindness. Their home home on the farm was filled with love, laughter and joy. May he rest in peace with his beloved Evelyn.
Mae Schilbe and family
Our condolences to the McKinley family.
Wayne Reibling
I know my family fell under the umbrella of Anson’s life and I’ll be ever thankful. My heart goes out to all of the family.
Dawn Cumming
Dear Karen, I send condolences as you grieve the loss while celebrating the life of your beloved patriarch Anson..I well remember meeting your father at a presentation which I gave to the gathering of the Past Wardens of Huron County..Mr. McKinley was an attentive and observant listener..Over the years since I met you at Book Club, I have “bragged” about living near the McKinley Hatchery family, pioneers in their field..To say “Goodbye” to a parent is heartbreaking no matter their age.. I shall always think of your parents when I drive by the stone house homestead..Be well Karen..You have been a stellar daughter..Hugs, Dawn
Garry W. Hess
My deepest condolences to the entire McKinley family on the loss of your father and grandfather. His legacy of service to his community and church will remembered. My Father served with him on County Council and my Mother was his neighbor while they were residents in BWRH… she spoke so very highly of him.
JIM OESCH
Deepest condolences to Anson’s family
Martin and Cheryl Gelinas
Our deepest condolences to all of Anson’s family.
Gerald and Maryiris Reibling
Dear cousins and your families, we are so sorry for your loss. The memories of our get-togethers are forever cherished.
We are all blessed to have been raised by such loving fathers and uncles. We will miss Uncle Anson but will cherish our memories of him.
Terry Lempriere
Sorry to hear this sad news. Anson McKinley will never be forgotten by me and my family, as he gave employment opportunity to my dad and enabled us to immigrate from England to Canada. Thank you Anson and family for all you have done.
DonnaO'Brien
My sympathy to all Anson’s loved ones,he was a good man.
Sincerely,Donna
Claire Parsons Riley
Donna and siblings. So sorry about your Dad. Prayers.
George Coleman
SORRY to hear of Anson’s passing. I had a conversation with him at Bobs visitation in Clinton. He explained his name was George Anson the same as my Dad. We had several visits in Florida with him and Evelyn. He had a great life
Janet Bettles
My father, Jack Coleman, was Anson’s cousin. In reading the obituary I see that Anson was very much an inspiration and mentor to my Dad as he too was a Reeve of Stanley Township, Warden of Huron County, a Mason, and a proud farmer of the Coleman Homestead where Anson’s mother was born and raised. He was even named after my grandfather Anson Coleman. My sympathies to the McKinley family.
Janet Bettles
Bryon and Mary
Bryon and I would like to offer our sincerest condolences
Shawna Reibling
Dear Larry and Lisabet, Warren and Alana
Condolences on the loss of Anson. We wish you the treasure of happy memories together as you celebrate Anson’s life and legacy. You are in our thoughts.
Shawna, Andrew, and William.
Alice Masse
To All Of Ansons Family. Sincere Sympathy To the McKinleyFamily Thinking Of you all at this most difficult time . He well be truly missed by all that knew him
Don and Alice Masse
Sharen Schroeder
Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Anson. He will be missed.
Sincerely, Sharen Schroeder and Family
Phil and Patty LaPorte
So sorry to hear of Anson’s passing. Sincere condolences to the McKinley Family.
Goldhawk Accounting
Deepest sympathies from everyone here at Goldhawk.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May Anson live on through your cherished stories and memories.
Deb McKinley
To all my precious cousins and your families!
Wishing you all the best during your journey of bringing closure and celebrating Uncle Anson’s long productive and caring life.
My memories of Uncle Anson growing up are many, but one story comes to mind.
One summer when we were just kids, he had us pull weeds from the wheat field and gave us a penny for each weed! Not only did he teach us the importance of keeping crops clean, but also the value of money, even back then.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you lay your Dad to rest.
Cousin Deb
Shirley Boyce
Our thoughts are with the McKinley family..Anson was a lovely man and his many accomplishments were remarkable. Cherish the memories. Ken and Shirley Boyce.
Dorothy Andrews
I am so very sorry to hear of Anson’s passing. We know he is now reunited with Evelyn, the love of his life. Love to all.
Anne Gilbert
John and Cathy and Family
So sorry to hear of the passing of Anson.
All the memories will be treasured by you always.
Sincerely
Bob and Anne Gilbert
Evelyn Steckle Vincent
To Anson’s family
Sincere sympathy in your huge loss. I remember Evelyn & Anson well having grown up on the Bronson. May the good memories help bring peace and comfort
Susan Moore
Thinking of you and your family Karen!
Carol Gascho
Our Condolences to Anson’s family. May memories of his life well lived sustain you as well as faith, family & friends.
Carol & Glenn Gascho
Grace Dungey
To all of Anson’s family My sincere sympathy Grace Dungey
Jim Chapman
Larry, Karen, Cathy, Mary Lou, Donna and Families;
Please accept my sincere sympathy !!
One only has to read the obituary to realize the loss, both to his family and, in earlier years especially,
to the community in which he lived and which he served in so many ways. I have many positive
memories of “holidays” spent on the McKinley Farm and of the big stone house where so many
great family events were held.