McNally, Greg
Peacefully at the GWM Hospital in Perth, Ontario on August 13, 2015. Walter Gregory "Greg" McNally, in his 68th year. Best friend and beloved husband for 43 years of Laurie (McLachlan). Dear father of Elizabeth (Matt Miernik) McNally, Walter (Lauren) McNally, Susan (Russ) Borrowman and Cathy (Toby) James. Much loved and loving grandfather of Madison, Lachlan and Kieren Miernik; Grace McNally; Hudson and Hannah Borrowman; and Alex and Maggie James. Beloved brother of Father Brian McNally. Cousin of Penny Plamondon and brother-in-law of Hugh (Rosanne) McLachlan. Predeceased by his parents, O.S. and Isabel (Mulville) McNally, his brother, Joseph, and his sister, Sister Anne McNally, CND. Greg was raised on the family farm along McNally's Bay between Westport and Newboro. He started his career in education as a teacher in 1970 at St. John Catholic School in Perth, where he met Laurie. He retired from the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario as the Director of Education, and then served as the Executive Director for the Canadian Catholic School Trustees' Association. Greg had a zest for life, a deep faith in God, a wonderful wit and respect for all. His fondest work memories included working in the schools; keeping the student at the heart; coaching team sports; practising servant leadership; writing history, including Beacons of Faith; and collaborating with educational groups such as the EOCCC, CCSTA, OCSOA and EOSDN. He loved attending Church; emceeing Geritol hockey banquets; gathering for Sunday family dinners; getting together in Florida and at Otty Lake Road Parties; golfing at the Chappie Open; watching his grandchildren grow up; making others laugh; remembering birthday dates; and, celebrating all things that brought family and friends together. He was a loving husband, supportive dad, and proud grandpa. Special thanks to the doctors and nurses, especially Lesli Richmond, who cared for him so well during his five-year battle against cancer. Visitation will be at the Blair and Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St. W., Perth on Sunday, August 16 from 1-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with Vigil Service at 5:45 p.m. (blairandson.com). Mass of Christian Burial celebrated in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 40 Wilson St. E., Perth on Monday, August 17, 2015 at 11 a.m. May Greg rest in peace. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish, the Great War Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Toonies for Tuition Program, which Greg helped implement through the CCSTA as a means to support students in provinces that have little or no public funding for Catholic schools.