Kathryn (“Kaye”) Elaine Groen (nee McCracken)
It is with profound sadness that we announce Kaye’s passing in her 70th year on December 5,2023 at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital. Beloved wife of John for 45 years. Loving mother to Krista (Michael). “Best Nana ever” to Emily and Nicholas. Dear sister of Janet Ward (nee McCracken), David McCracken, Paul McCracken (Virginia) and the late Donald McCracken. Fondly remembered by her niece Robin (Gord), her nephew Wayne (Fiona), her cherished in-laws, her many great nieces and nephews, extended family and dear friends.
Kaye was born in Alliston, where she worked for Baxter Corporation for over 45 years. She loved to golf, curl and play cards. She volunteered her time to charity events and organizations including the Huronia Wire Wheel Chapter of Model A Owners of Canada club. She was intuitively creative, making masterpieces in carpentry, painting, quilting and any other medium she could get her hands on. She loved gardening and canning much of her harvest. She was known for her stellar cooking skills, especially her homemade French Onion Soup.
Despite her lifelong health struggles, Kaye was an unrelenting fighter who never gave up. She continuously beat the odds that she was up against. Even when she did not feel her best, she selflessly put the needs of others before her own. She refused to allow her afflictions to define her. Kaye maintained her kind heart, sense of humour and radiant personality to the end.
A Visitation will be held at Rod Abrams Funeral Home (1666 Tottenham Road, Tottenham 905-936-3477) on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. James Church Colgan (2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham). Interment to follow. Guests are invited to join the family in the parish hall for refreshments immediately afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kaye’s memory may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundationof Canada, the Kidney Foundation of Canada, the St. James Building Fund or a charity of your
choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Road, Tottenham Ontario L0G1W0
Wednesday December 13, 2023
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Wednesday December 13, 20236:00pm - 8:00pm
Funeral Service
St. James Church Colgan
2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham, ON L0G 1W0
Thursday December 14, 202311:00am
Daryl and Tammy says
Our deepest condolences to the whole family. So sorry for your loss.
Dennis Adams says
Sincere condolences to John and family on the passing of
Kaye . We were neighbours for many years in Adjala .rest in peace Kaye
Dennis Adams
Mike Rizzuto says
Dear John and family.
I am very sorry to hear about Kaye’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. Kaye was such a wonderful, kind person and will be missed but always remembered fondly.
Nancy and Reg Ross (Wynnyk) says
We are so sorry for your loss.
Nancy Eagan says
John ,Krista and Families ,
May we offer our heart felt condolences on the loss of Kaye.
Nancy and Jim Eagan
Sharon Garbutt says
My sincere sympathy to John and all family and friends of Kaye. She was a lovely lady who will be greatly missed.
Eileen Kearney says
To John & all the family my deepest sympathy. Kaye was a dear lady who always welcomed you with her beautiful smile.
Gerry and Clare Groen says
John, Krista, Micheal, Emily, Nicholas and extended Groen & McCracken Family.
We are sending love and prayers in your time of need.
Kaye loved her family fiercely. She would always share stories of how everyone was doing, making sure to get the details just right. Kaye would smile as she shared car show stories spent with John, her love for Krista and Micheal and her adventures with the grandkids. Her wisdom, laughter and kindness touched all who knew her and had the honour of calling her family and a friend.
Morag and Glenn says
We were deeply saddened to hear of Kaye’s passing. She radiated kindness despite her own challenges, she met others with a smile and uplifting words. Kaye was always fun to have along on our Model A travels, whether across town or across borders and we will cherish those memories. .
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. John, may comfort find you and your family during this difficult time. It is clear Kaye’s warmth touched many lives; her legacy lives on through those she met and inspired.
Carolea Andrews says
John, Krista and family…sorry to hear about Kaye,I know she’ll be missed,our thoughts are with you all Carolea Andrews & Pete Graf
Deborah Campbell says
Kaye was a wonderful person and a good friend. I worked with her at Baxter for many years and she always worked with dedication to the responsibilities that she had. It was a pleasure to go on trips with her, because she was always good company. It was through Kaye that my son Daniel his first job, working with John at the Albion Hills. She was generous with her time and talented in her abilities. Kaye was on the executive of our Model A club for several years. Her contributions were many. She was an excellent cook, and was always willing to share her tips for making things taste wonderful. I will miss her. My sincere condolences to John and his family. Life will not be the same without Kaye, and it has been blessed with knowing her.
Deborah Campbell
Marlene Stonehouse says
John and family
Thinking of you all. Praying for your peace and comfort
durning this difficult time.
Trevor & Marlene Stonehouse
Thomas Svob says
Worked with Kaye for near two decades. Always professional and ready to help – considered her a brick in the foundation of Baxter Alliston. Condolences to her family and friends.
Heather Partridge AKA/ 'Harvey' says
Kaye was a fighter to the very end. She lived her life to the fullest every day despite the bumps along the way. She was a dear friend going back to our Adjula Central public school days and to our current regular BMHS high-school ‘ crew ‘ group get togethers. The story telling and laughter will be a cherished memory of mine and for us all, as we look back on the friendship we shared with Kate. My deepest sympathy and thoughts are extended to John, Krista, her cherished grandchildren and her extended family and many friends, that were fortunate enough to have known Kaye and shared a laugh and made a memory with her. God bless you Kaye and rest in peace, till we share the laughter again ❤️ ‘Harvey’
Lorraine murphy says
My deepest condolences to the Groen and McCracken families I worked with Kaye for many years at Baxter and also knew her before then
A fighter all the way but the world has lost a very special person fly high with the angels my friend
James Willis says
John and Krista and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I had the privilege of working with Kaye at Baxter. She was a wonderful person who had a positive impact on so many people. May you be comforted by friends and family over the coming weeks and months.
Stacy Albano says
My deepest condolences to Kaye’s family and friends. I was fortunate to have worked with Kaye for over 20 years. I have missed our conversations and her infectious laughter. She was very proud of her family and spoke of you often. Sending you all strength as you grieve the loss of this beautiful lady.
Allen Middleton says
John and Family, Kaye will be missed by us all and her spirit will live on in all of us. We were sadden to hear the news and our heart felt condolences to you all during this hard time.
The Middleton’s
Allen, Vicky and family
Joanne & Pete Duggan & family says
To John and family, so sorry to hear about Kaye. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May she rest in peace.
June Barnes says
Deepest condolences to Kaye’s family. She was such a wonderful person. Kaye will be deeply missed but always remembered
Wayne and Betty Sutherland says
Our deepest sympathy to all of Kay’s family.
Jim and Nancy Kidd says
Condolences to the families
Tom and Shirley Harper says
Our heartfelt condolences to John and family, as well as the McCracken family, on the loss of a beautiful lady. Kaye left many happy memories in the hearts and minds of her many friends, and she will be sorely missed by many.
donna Jebb says
John and Dave:
we are so sorry to hear of Kaye’s passing. We have some fond memories of Kaye and all she did over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Barry & Donna (Gibson) Jebb
Nancy Mcgee says
John and family- our thoughts and hearts are with you. May you find peace and comfort in your memories – they never really us.
Your old neighbours, Nancy and Jamie McGee
Dave and Laurie Harvey says
Our sincere condolences to John, Krista and the whole family.
Venera (Vinnie) Cicuttini says
On behalf of the Cicuttini family our deepest condolences.
Lisa Carson says
John and family,
We were extremely sad to hear about Kaye’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Lisa and Paul Carson
Gayle and Gordon says
Heartfelt condolences to the family of Kaye. We have many wonderful years of memories knowing her for the 45 years at Baxter. May she rest in peace.
Deanna McMann says
John, Krista and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Kaye’s passing. I have fond memories of Kaye when I grew up across the road. May she rest in peace.
Adele Mckenna says
Dear John and family. It’s been many years since we were in each other’s company but I still remember the times we hung out in the early days. Kaye had the best laugh I can still hear it now. Just know it will be hard to get through these days to come but then all the good memories will flood in to make you smile at what wonderful times that god granted you to have wth Kaye. So sorry for your heartache .
Brian and Karen Westlake says
John, Krista and family, our deepest condolences on your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you and may all the wonderful memories of what a truly special person she was give you comfort
With our love Brian and Karen and family
Louise and Lyle Longhurst says
Sincere condolences to Kaye’s family and friends. Kaye was a lovely person taken too soon.
Rita Byl says
My deepest sympathy to the family in her passing. I knew the whole family I baby sat the whole family. We lived across the road for a number of years went to school with her and the rest of family . She learned her cooking from her mom we were blessed to have them across the road they had a phone and Tv those were the days . She was great .She will be missed Rita Byl (Winters)
Brian and Patti Snell says
To John and all extended family,
We are very sorry to learn of Kaye’s passing. We extend our condolences at this time of loss and grief.
Sincerely, Brian and Patti Snell.
Sarah Curtis says
My heart goes out to you all in this incredibly difficult time. Kaye was a wonderful person and loved by so many including me. We will miss her .
Rita Van Niekerk says
Dear John and family,
From across the ocean our sincere condolences with the loss of Kay. Wishing you lots of strength from Rob & Rita Visser – Van Niekerk
Rotterdam Holland
Kevin and Kim Dermott says
Our sincere condolences to all of you. Kaye was a kind lovely lady .
Karen and Peter Harvey says
John and family, our sincere condolences at the passing of Kaye. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
Karen and Peter Harvey
Mary Wiley says
Our very deepest sympathies John.Krista the Groen and McCracken families on the passing of Kaye such a wonderful friend You will be truly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing you Rest in Peace Kaye God Bless
MaryLou Hunter
Garry Mary and Lisa Wiley
Joanne Celentano says
Our hearts go out to you for the loss of Kaye. Her wonderful smile will be missed! We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers!
Joanne & Brian Celentano
Danny & Debbie McAllister says
Sending our sincere condolences to John Krista and family. We have known Kaye for many years, and also from working at Baxter. Rest In Peace my Friend
Lorna and Barry Kerr says
Very sorry to hear that Kaye lost her battle. She fought very hard over the last several years. I had the privilege of working with Kaye at Baxter for many, many years. I also had the privilege or playing alot of golf with her and we enjoyed lots of stories and laughs. You will be missed!
John, Krista and family I hope your memories help you through the difficult times you have ahead.
Perry Bimm says
I offer my deepest condolences to the family. I know how much work Kaye put into the Model A club and anything else she took on. She will certainly be missed by all who knew her!
Paul Bontje says
Dear John – our sincerest condolences on Kaye’s passing.
Paul Bontje & Rita Rocys
Pat (Shetler) Shacklady says
Sending sincere condolences to all.
Kaye was one of a kind and I’m happy to have known her.
We sure had a lot of fun in our younger days.
In spite of all her health issues over the years, she was always so upbeat. Heaven is lucky to have her ❤️
Margaret and Bill Barber says
Sincere condolences to John, Krista and family. The wonderful memories we have of Kaye will be remembered forever. Baxter bonspiels, Christmas parties, golf tournaments and many years of working together are to name a few. Thank you Kaye, you will be missed!
Marg and Bill Barber
Clay & Nancy Jackson says
We were very grateful to have had the privilege of calling Kaye our friend.
Clancy Curling had many participants over the years but none as avid as Kaye even at -40 + a windchill
Rest in peace Kaye ❤️
Donal Blacklaws says
My sincerest condolences to Kaye’s family , siblings, families.
God bless.
Marie says
John, I am so sorry that Kaye didn’t make it this time. I didn’t know her all that well, but what I did, she was a sweet lady! Praying for you and the family.
Bonnie O'Hara says
John, Krista & family. I was so sad to hear of Kaye’s passing. She fought hard through out her life. She was a kind & caring lady. She will be missed. Keeping you in my prayers. Bonnie O’Hara
Phil stubbs says
Sincere condolences too John and family. Knew Kaye from my childhood. R. I. P.
JJ Paul & Margaret Whiteside says
John, Krista, Janet, David, Paul and Families,
We extend our deepest sympathy to your family on the passing of Kaye. May you find comfort in knowing that others are holding you close in their hearts during this difficult time. We wish you peace, strength, comfort and love now and in the days to come.
Paul worked with Kaye at Baxter Labs for many years and was a pleasure to work with.
Rest in Peace Kaye.
Cheryl Vienneau says
John, Krista, Mike and family
From the moment we found out about Kaye’s passing our hearts have been broken in half. She was a beautiful courageous lady. I hope she is teeing off on some golf course in the warm sunny sun.
Take Care my Friend ❤️
Love
Cheryl, Lawrence & family
Laura Traynor says
John and family. Please accept my sincere condolences on Kaye’s death. I first met Kaye at Baxter and enjoyed spending time with her on the golf course and the curling ice as well as in the office. At one time we both worked for Gord Raines. Kaye always had the respect & admiration of her coworkers and friends.
May she Rest In Eternal Peace.
God bless you all as you mourn your significant loss of your beloved Kaye.
Sincerely, Laura Traynor.
Carol Fuller says
John and family,
We are very sorry to hear of Kaye’s passing.
Gord and Carol Fuller
Rose Courneyea says
John, Krista, Michael & Family:
I hope memories of the happy times you had together can be of some comfort during this incredibly difficult time. I’m sharing in your sadness and praying for all of you. Sending our most heartfelt sympathy to you and your entire family. Rest in peace.
Pat & Rose Courneyea
Linda Barber says
Sincere condolences to John, Krista and families. We have many good memories of Kaye over the years from Baxter’s many functions. Lots of fun. RIP Kaye. Jack & Linda
Sue Godwin says
Our Deepest Condolences To John ,Krista and Family!,I only recently net Kay but she always had a smile for us and a warm Hello!,May she R.I.P.
Sue Godwin and Gerry
Margo & John Cooney says
John, Krista and family, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of Kaye. Kaye was the definition of strength and grace. She prevailed where many would have fallen and always did it with a smile that lit up the room. Gone long before her time she will be sorely missed in your family and in our community. May you find comfort in the loving memories she made throughout her all too short life.
David and Maureen Archibald and family says
So very sorry to hear.
Kay will be missed by all.
Such a kind, lovely lady.
Our prayers are with you all.
Bill & Sandy Clark says
John & Family,
We are very sorry to hear of Kaye’s passing. Kaye will be remembered as a very kind person who has left loving memories to everyone. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Bill & Sandy Clark
Sandra Hatcher Maher says
Sending our deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful mom Krista. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Cherish your wonderful memories they will love in your heart forever.
Love Sandy and Brian
Mary Lynn Nosad says
John, Krista, and Family, my Condolences to you All, Kaye sure fought so hard to stay, but, she just couldn’t. R.I.P. my friend. Fly high !
Chey says
Kaye (Mama G) was an integral part of my life since I was 13, when I befriended her sweet, quiet and shy daughter, Krista. Our friendship blossomed and Mama G welcomed me into her home (literally, I lived with them for a summer and practically every weekend!) and treated me like her own. I don’t have all the words right now to express what she meant to me but this loss weighs heavy. I have numerous fond memories of Mama G, but my favourite one will always be when she chased me around the kitchen to try and give me Buckley’s cough medicine. Her laugh was the best. My heart goes out to all who knew and loved Kaye – especially Krista, Papa John, Mike and my sweet “niece and nephew”, and of course to the large family I inherited when I became friends with Krista. You are all in my thoughts.
Mama G, I will miss you immensely and maybe, just maybe, should I ever need to, I will take some Buckley’s just for you. May you rest in peace. I love you.
Ernie and Daina Wienecke says
Dear John and family, our deepest condolences at the passing of your wife Kaye.
Our thoughts are with you.
Ernie and Daina Wienecke
Carolyn Cave says
Sending sincere condolences to the entire Groen and McCracken families but especially to Krista and her family. I worked with Kaye for 37 of her 45+ years at Baxter and will hold those many memories dear. She will be sorely missed by many.
Carolyn Cave
Bob and Evy Vienneau says
John and family,Evy and I offer our deepest condolence.It was so sad to hear of Kaye’s passing.