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
Brian C Thomas
Donald Orth
I am so sorry to hear about Karl's passing. I worked with Karl for many years at Revenue Canada/CBSA and I was always struck by his professionalism and his friendly manner - he had a great sense of humour and was a true gentleman. It was a real pleasure to have known him. My condolences to Karl's family and friends.
Tina F Askwith
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Karl for many years and it is so sad to hear of his passing.
Bob Becker
Karl was a great guy. A pleaure to work for, he will be missed by many.
Fritz Family
We are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember seeing Karl cheering on Ben and his teammates at Orleans Rush hockey games.
Vera Hutzuliak
Karl was not only a great boss, but also a wonderful mentor and confidant. During my many years working under him, going to work in the morning was nothing but a pleasure. My sincere condolences to his family.
Mary Houston
Dear Mary and Family
I am so sad to hear of Karl’s passing but know his long suffering is over.
I will remember with Love and a smile all the good times we shared.
Sending Love and Prayers to everyone
Love Mary
Maggie Kreuk
I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a sweet man.
Jeff Higgins ( Higgins Family)
Aunt Mary, Robert and Katie thinking of you all during this time Uncle Karl was a true family man and his love will live forever in your hearts. Uncle Karl go have a dance with my mom in heaven your suffering is over. Love always Jeff, Jennifer and Paul.
Jennifer Higgins
Sending my deepest condolences to Aunt Mary, Robert and Katie. Uncle Karl was one the best there was and I will always remember his sense of humour! Love you all! I am sending you all my strength, support and prayers
Uncle Karl was an amazing person and he will be deeply missed. My heart goes out to Aunt Mary, Katie, Robert and all our family and friends who were so lucky enough to have him as part of our lives.