Benjamin Thomas Mackey
January 4, 2005 – May 13, 2020
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It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of our dear sweet boy Benjamin, age 15 years, with his family holding him and loving him as he made his way to heaven. He leaves to mourn his loving and very proud parents, Lisa and Leonard, his amazing brother and sister, Connor (11) and Emily (8), his many fur siblings, grandparents John and Carmel Power, Leonard (deceased) and Marie Mackey, aunts and uncles Michelle Stevenson, Keith and Natalie Power, Glenn Power (godfather) and Tammy Parsons, Tony (deceased) and Sonya Mackey (godmother), Neil and Barb Mackey, Glenn Mackey, Anita and Sterling Foote, Dean and Heather Mackey, Donald and Pam Mackey, numerous cousins, and many many friends.
Benjamin had a very challenging yet beautiful life. He came into this world on his own terms 15 weeks early. The first 6 months of his life were spent at the Janeway. Many of the staff became like family and helped care for him over the years. He became known for keeping his medical team guessing. We always said he was adding a new chapter in the “Book of Benjamin”.
Benjamin had incredible strength, determination, and a love of life. He loved to have fun! Whether it was horseback riding with Rainbow Riders, swimming and music with Easter Seals, playing baseball with his Challenger Baseball League, bowling, going for walks and feeding the ducks, or watching hockey and golf. He loved all animals and he truly loved his dance parties.
Thank you to the Shriner’s Hospital for your assistance with Benjamin over the years. A very big thank you also to the Children’s Wish Foundation. Benjamin was granted a wish and he received a hippocampe in 2016. This all terrain wheelchair provided him with the ability to explore so many new places. He was also very proud to be their Wish Ambassador that year.
Benjamin had a stubborn streak, a determination not seen by many. It was clear that he was going to change the world for those around him and that he was going to be a force of positivity, joy, strength, perseverance and motivation. Many friends had the privilege of witnessing his amazing life and many more have been blessed with his beautiful smile.
Benjamin loved going to school! He had fun on his school bus ride especially when he turned it into the party bus. St. Matthew’s School was a huge part of his life. They made his learning fun. He enjoyed seeing each and every one of his St. Matthew’s Tiger Family. He loved gym class and music class, he loved Friendship Club, reading with visiting classes, art, baking on Fridays, the occasional snuggles and sometimes doing work. He dearly loved all his teachers and assistants. Ms. Devereaux, Ms. Upshall, Ms. Bryne, Ms. Follett, and Ms. Johnson you have no idea how much you mean to us. You loved Benjamin as we did. You got him!
The close bond of a sibling can never be broken. Benjamin had an amazing brother and sister. Connor and Emily helped to be his hands, legs, and voice. They have included him in everything. There was no such thing as he can’t. It was how can we change it so he can. We have been so proud of their strength and love for their brother throughout their lives but especially in his last few days. They now have a special guardian angel protecting them as they did for Benjamin.
Benjamin, we are honored to have been chosen as your family. You have taught us so much in your 15 years. It was difficult knowing you were writing your final chapter but we could not be prouder of you.
We would like to thank the Paramedics who assisted, Dr. Conradi and Dr. Carey of PICU and all the amazing nurses and respiratory therapists who helped during this final stage of Benjamin’s life. As difficult as it was you helped us to love and honor him as he gained his angel wings.
A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 11 a.m. from Corpus Christi Church. To view the online service, please click on the following link tom0349.wixsite.com/streamingservices/cauls
Donations to the Shriner’s Club or the Children’s Wish Foundation are graciously accepted. And we know Benjamin would just want everyone to smile and be kind to one another.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Benjamin Thomas Mackey 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Torbay, Province: T-N