Obituary of Melva Jean McKenzie

Remembering Melva Jean McKenzie

London, Ontario — Melva Jean McKenzie, aged 90, passed away peacefully on May 21st, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on April 3, 1936 in Toronto, Melva was the cherished daughter of the late William and Elva Addison. She was a woman of rare depth, and a humorous, brilliant soul who possessed an incredible memory right to the very end, leaving an indelible mark on the world through her kindness, empathy, and boundless creativity.

A Life Well-Lived

Not only was Melva a first-class wife and mother, she was a woman of many passions. Entrepreneurial and deeply creative, she was an artist whose talents went far beyond traditional mediums, even inventing her own board game. She was an extraordinary cook and homemaker, a captivating storyteller, and a brilliant interlocutor who thrived in deep discussions about world issues and politics.

Above all, Melva was an animal lover who believed that all living things possess a spirit and intelligence. She spent her life going above and beyond for others, always standing as the first to defend the underdog and protect those without a voice.

Family and Legacy

Melva’s legacy of love lives on through her family. She is survived by:

• Her devoted husband, Frederick McKenzie.
• Her loving son, Todd Kirkpatrick.
• Her son-in-law, Ken Fillman (husband of her late daughter, Julia).
• Her dear stepchildren, Ken McKenzie, Ian McKenzie, and Scott McKenzie.
• Her grandchildren: Jack, Nicole, Jessica, Sara, Derek, Mark, and Ryan.
• Her many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, who were the modern spark and continuous joy of her family tree.
• Her dear brother, Gordon Addison.
• Her beloved nieces, Kimm and Kara (daughters of Gordon), as well as many lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Julia Fillman, as well as her parents, William and Elva Addison.

Services and Memorial

In keeping with Melva's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Melva will be interred at Woodland Cemetery (493 Springbank Drive, London, Ontario, N6J 1H3).

In Lieu of Flowers

The McKenzie and Kirkpatrick families request that donations be made in Melva’s memory to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre, a cause reflecting her profound love for animals and her belief in the spirit of all living things.

• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 601, Mount Brydges, ON, N0L 1W0
• Phone: 519-264-2440
• (Official Charity Registration No: 853863546 RR0001)

Melva McKenzie (Mel) would also like to thank the staff and many friends she made during her stay at Chartwell retirement home on Riverside in London, Ontario.

The McKenzie and Kirkpatrick families wish to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Barry, Dr. Beswick, Dr. Goldszmidt, Dr. Mitchell, Sabrina, Bridgette, and the rest of the superb staff and team at London Health Sciences Centre for their compassionate care and support during Melva's final days.

Rest in peace, Melva Jean. Your beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.