After showing immense strength and courage in his long journey with ALS, Karl passed away peacefully at home on August 23rd, 2023 surrounded by his family at age 76.
Karl was married for 53 years to his loving wife Mary (nee Gibson). He will be dearly missed by his children Robert (Jenny) and Katie Baldwin (Mitch). He was, and always will be, the best Papa imaginable to his cherished grandchildren Ben, Ethan, Evi, and Emma.
Son of the late Karl and Marie Mackay and survived by his brothers Al (Wendy), Ian, and Don (Anne). Beloved brother-in-law to Lee Ross (Glenn). Dear uncle to Mark (Kristin), Rachel Russumanno (Frank), Brian (Lauren Alvarado), Kevin, and Ken Ross (Sarah Wood).
Karl was lucky to have many caring and devoted friends in Ottawa, Peterborough, and St. John’s. He appreciated all of the love and support that he and the whole family received throughout his illness.
A special thank you to the Orleans Palliative Care team (Dr. Vincent, Dr. Rioux, Dr. Plantive) for their exceptional care. Karl also received excellent support from Dr. McKim, the community nurses, respiratory therapists and PSWs (John, Edith, and Mark). An extra special thank you to Karl’s beloved long-time PSW, Felix, who became part of the family.
Karl will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, his sense of humour, his love of sports (especially hockey and F1), and his fierce support of the Ottawa Senators. He started his career as an electrical draftsman at Canadian General Electric in Peterborough and moved to Ottawa in 1984 to join the public service. He worked for over 25 years for Revenue Canada/CBSA, retiring as a manager in the Anti-dumping and Countervailing Program.
Donations in Karl’s memory can be made to the ALS Society of Canada.
Digital Guestbook
Bob and Heather Simpson and family
Maureen Nash
I’m so sorry to hear the sad news. Karl was a great boss. He was kind, funny and always friendly. We had many good times. I will miss him. My sincere condolences to his family
Greg Budnik
So sorry to hear about Karl’s passing. Sending thoughts and prayers from our family to yours.
Marwan El Ghossein
May you rest in peace Karl ,you will be missed!🙏
Claudette St-Georges
My deepest condolences on the passing of Karl.
Lynn Pagett
Mary, remembering our fun times pre children, they bring a smile, hugs for you, Robert and Katie. R.l.P Karl we were blessed to call you friend.
Iqbal Motani
Dear Mary,
My deepest condolences to you and the family with prayers for eternal peace and rest of Karl’s soul.
Karl was an exemplary boss and a wonderful friend for me.
Rumi:
« Good byes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation «
Allison Gregory
My deepest condolences Mary, Katie and Robert. It’s in moments like these that words fall short. But I hope you know how much love I have in my heart for Karl, and that you’re in my thoughts.
Dawn Lawson
I worked with Karl many years ago in Customs and I fondly remember his easy smile, his great sense of humor and his kindness. My deepest sympathies to your family during this difficult time.
Andrew Manera
I can only echo the other comments from the others who worked with or for him. Richly respected manager who everyone enjoyed working with. A gentleman and a professional. I had the pleasure for many years and am saddened by this news. Deepest condolences to friends and family.
To Mary, Robert, Katie and families, as well as his brothers and his sister-in-law and all their families, our sincere condolences.
Karl was such a kind and friendly person; we are grateful to have shared many good times over the years.
We send our love and prayers.