Obituary of Lena McGriskin
The family of the late Lena McGriskin regretfully announce her passing on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Lena was born on September 13th, 1924 in Oshawa, to Alex and Dorothy Rosnak and was one of eleven children.
As a young adult Lena worked on an assembly line for war munitions in Pickering prior to marrying Joe McGriskin on January 25th, 1945. Lena and Joe were dairy farmers and raised their family in Agincourt, where the McGriskin family originated. Lena and Joe were loving parents to their children, Tom (Heather), Donna (Don), Mike (Jo-Anne), Theresa (Gary) and Collette (Danny). Lena was pre-deceased by her son Mike and daughter-in-law Donna.
In 1965 they relocated the family and farm operation to Sunderland. During their lifetime together they bred multiple top genetic Holstein cattle, exported cattle throughout the world and were renowned for their breeding excellence, earning several significant awards from the Canadian Holstein Association. Lena and Joe loved to spend winter holidays in Florida, which eventually became their home away from home. Lena lost her beloved husband Joe in 1984 after which Lena was able to establish a home on the farm in Sunderland and a home in Florida during the winter. With the support of her children and grandchildren Lena was able to maintain the life she loved. Lena leaves behind twelve grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren and six great great grandchildren, the joys of her life. Lena was blessed with good health, strong determination and lived independently until she was 98 years old when she transitioned to residential living. Lena’s last achievement was a grand celebration with family and friends on the farm for her “100th Birthday”.
The family of Lena McGriskin will receive friends at the WAGG FUNERAL HOME, 216 Queen Street in Port Perry (905-985-2171) on Thursday, April 24th from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1710 Scugog Street (Hwy 7A) in Port Perry on Friday, April 25th at 11 a.m. with Father Silva officiating. Private interment St. Malachy’s Catholic Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com