When Marilyn McKenzie retired from volunteering with Meals on Wheels in 2023, she had been delivering meals in Peterborough for 53 years. Just a few months later, she passed away peacefully at the age of 88 — leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet impact that continues to inspire.
Marilyn began volunteering in 1970. She was the runner — hopping out of the car, meal in hand — while her childhood best friend drove the route. Later, her husband Ross joined her, recruited after his retirement. Their service became a shared rhythm of life.
“I remember climbing up snowbanks and down again to deliver meals,” Marilyn once recalled. “As long as clients were happy and looked after, that’s all that mattered.”
Over five decades, Marilyn saw the program grow and change, but the heart of it remained the same: people looking out for one another. Neighbours helping neighbours. She cherished the friendships she made with both clients and fellow volunteers, and often came home with smiles — and the occasional sweet treat — from those she served.
Marilyn was recognized many times over the years, receiving Community Care’s service awards, a Mayor’s Award from the City of Peterborough, and an Ontario Volunteer Service Award shortly before her death.
This National Volunteer Week, we remember Marilyn with gratitude and admiration. Her life reminds us that true community care doesn’t always come with fanfare — it comes, quietly and faithfully, one meal at a time.
