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.
Digital Guestbook
Molly Grunewald Hamby
Melly (Mary Elin) Atkinson (Moore)
Mark, my deepest condolences to you and the family on the loss of your beautiful daughter. While I never met your daughter, your Mom always spoke so highly and proudly of her. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. 💛
Charlene Michalak
My deepest condolences to Mark and his family on the passing of his beautiful daughter. I didn’t know Makena but I do know how special she was and how much she is terribly missed. My heart aches for you Mark.
Greg and Heike Payne
Our heartfelt condolences to you Mark and your entire family as you process this sad tragedy of the loss of your beautiful Daughter who was a light in every aspect of her short life. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. RIP Makena
Peter Ellis
Mark - I am so sorry to hear about Makena. I know she was the light of your life for you and Chris and will be sadly missed. My sincere condolences - my heart breaks for you.
Steve,Karry,Tiana and Alyssa Lisle
Psalm 34:18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.
Mark, we miss you, and speak of you often. May the Lord give you peace during this incredibly difficult season.
Sandi Dodds
Over the years, family ski holidays with the Okemo “gang” were always so special …memories forever in our hearts and minds. Our thoughts , prayers and love are with you Mark… Sandi, Terry, Alex, Courtney and
Gillian (Raiden)
Makena was one of those people you meet and instantly think oh, this is someone special. She had this way of making everyone around her feel like they mattered, like you were seen and important. Even in such a short time of knowing her, she became someone I felt deeply connected to—and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way.
Her light was so big, so bright, and so beautiful. It’s the kind of light that doesn’t just disappear—it stays with you, woven into the memories, the laughter, and the love she poured into this world.
I’ll always be grateful that our paths crossed, even if it wasn’t for nearly long enough 💛