Obituary of Rod Mckay

Rod McKay was born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1950. He grew up in Pickering and then attended the University of Guelph, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture. While attending university, his dream was realized when Willowtree Farm was purchased in Utica. He started up the farm upon graduation. Rod’s passions included - farming, family, and his rural community. These passions were shared by his wife and partner, Marlene (deceased). Success in dairy culminated in a Master Breeder shield from Holstein Canada, and was followed by a transition to strawberry farming that quickly grew into production of a range of fruits and vegetables. Today, Willowtree Farm is recognized at numerous farmer’s markets and at their on-farm store. Rod oversaw this business, along with sons’ Jordan and Alex, and their wives Alyson and Kelty, respectively. Rod's commitment to the farm business was reflective of a deep commitment to his family. It gave him great pleasure to know the farm is continuing in the family with those that share his passions. As an added bonus, grandson Ian (Alex and Kelty) loves the farm too. He asks to go to the barn every day to see the animals. Despite long days farming, Rod maintained a broad social network and actively supported his local community. In addition to sitting on various boards, Rod pitched in with snow plowing, church maintenance, the Port Perry fair, various hockey leagues and much more. Rod could always be counted on to help in his community. Rod lived life fully, and his last day was a normal and active one on the farm (December 21st). Rod was the son of the late Rev. Dr. Bill and Melba McKay and the beloved husband of the late Marlene McKay. He is survived by his siblings Bill (Sally) McKay of Saskatoon, Elspeth (Paul) Deir of Kingston, and Catherine (Marvin) McKay of Port Perry, as well as sons Jordan (Alyson) and Alex (Kelty) McKay, and grandson Ian McKay. The family of Rod Mckay will receive friends and family at the Utica Hall, Marsh Hill Road in Utica on Thursday, December 29th from 3 - 6 p.m. A Service to celebrate Rod’s life will be held on Friday, December 30th at 11 a.m. at the Port Perry United Church, 294 Queen Street in Port Perry with a reception to follow at Rod's farm (Willowtree Farm Store). The family requests any donations made through the WAGG FUNERAL HOME, 216 Queen Street in Port Perry (905-985-2171) in Rod’s honour be to either the Epsom/Utica Church or Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre by cheque. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com