For those of you fortunate enough to know Makena White, I am beyond saddened to inform you of her passing on Monday, September 22nd, 2025. Though her years with us were far too short, her impact on the people she met was significant. Her impact on the people that she loved is immeasurable.
Makena was born in Ottawa, where she attended St. Joseph High School, played Nepean Wildcat hockey and forged friendships too numerous to mention. She graduated from McMaster University with degrees in communications and software engineering. Makena applied her exceptional people skills in a sales career that eventually led her into the field of healthcare where she was able to fulfill one of her driving forces…to help people who needed help.
Stunningly beautiful, Makena could turn heads in a roomful of people, not just because of her looks but because her beauty emanated from her spirit for life. Adventurous, funny, passionate, impulsive and driven to get the most out of every experience, Makena was interested and interesting. To be loved by Makena was a gift: one that brought endless laughter, so much joy and a healthy dose of chaos. Keeping up with her travel schedule was a fulltime job. From a work conference in Europe, to a volunteer calling at an orphanage in Uganda, to a surgery in Peterborough, to The Masters…Makena loved to travel. It was pure joy simply to touch base with her to find out; “what is she up to now?”
More than, almost, anything Makena loved her dogs. Her high school graduation photo was classic “Makena”. There she was clad in cap and gown with Lola beside her, also in cap and gown, as she convinced the photographer that; “the principal said it was ok”. More recently her precious Fergie and Nelly provided endless joy and comfort to Makena.
Makena will be dearly missed every single day by her Dad, Mark White, her uncles, aunts, cousins and her countless friends and colleagues who are fortunate enough to be touched by her radiant spirit. Makena was pre-deceased by her Mother, Crystal Barrington in 2022.
A Celebration of Makena’s Life will be held at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue in Ottawa, on Thursday October 2nd at 1:00 p.m. Visitation will be held Wednesday October 1st from 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. also at Beechwood. Please wear yellow in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, Makena would love it if donations were made in her honor to The Bruyère Health Memory Clinic or The Griffin Bell Golden Endowment Fund at CHEO Foundation.
Livre de visiteurs
Emma Teale
Kenny Cardozo
Thank you for being the light in our team. Thank you for being an exceptional human and professional. Your commitment to serving others exemplifies what we should all strive to do while we are here.
Thanks again for your energy, your vibes, and your relentless dedication to your work, team, and community.
Team Canada will always miss you
Paul Bennett
Mark - It broke my heart to learn of your daughter's passing. I know you will fondly embrace her memory and spirit.
Andrew Baker
I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Makena’s passing. I had the absolute privilege of training Makena at my gym and she was always a bright light.
She made everyone’s day who got to cross paths with her and made everyone feel so welcomed. Her presence was so inviting.
I feel lucky to have gotten to know Makena and we will miss her deeply. My condolences to her friends and family.
Jenna Byrne
Makena was the most amazing person. Growing up, I loved every year we got to play on the same team together. We played on the same line a lot, and she would just have the best hockey cellys whenever we scored a goal! I'll never forget those big hugs and that huge smile every time I got to see her. She had a way of making everyone feel included and welcome and was one of the most funny people I know. I will cherish all the amazing memories we had growing up. Love you forever xox
Carlo Santurbano
Makena, you were a ray of sunshine that will be forever missed. The sweetest, kindest, funniest person in the room. We’ll miss you forever. Love you.
Shaylin Telford
I was honoured to have known Mak, she was the brightest light and the funniest person I knew. This news has me deeply saddened to hear. Rest in paradise Mak 💛 my greatest condolences to her family
Dawn Collings
I did not have the privilege of knowing Makena well, yet
reading about her life makes it clear what a remarkable, and vibrant person she was.
Her spirit, accomplishments, and the love she gave to others shine through in every word of her story.
My deepest condolences to Mark, family, friends, and all who were touched by her light.
May your memories of her bring comfort in the days ahead.
Katie Lazdins
Makena, it’s hard to believe it’s been years since we last saw each other in person (by chance at Belfast in Toronto), because it truly feels like just yesterday. You never missed a chance to make me feel special on my birthday, and you were always cheering me and my little family on from afar. I’ll miss your sweet, spontaneous Instagram check-ins that always felt like a hug through the screen. You were such a bright light—your beauty shone through those big blue eyes, and your warmth touched everyone lucky enough to know you. You will be so deeply, deeply missed.
KT Wetmo’
Luke Taggary
So unbelievably saddened to hear of Makena's passing. I had the privilege of spending some time with her during the Rocket Classic in Detroit. She was so sweet and kind. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Makena, I’ll hold you dear in my heart forever. The best team mate, friend, sister anyone could ask for. And oh the memories, well that will put a smile on my face even on the hard days. Love you forever buddy
Teale