Armella Winifred McKenzie
April 25, 1926 ~ July 31, 2024
Armella Winifred McKenzie, premier polka punch press professional and kooky craft connoisseur, passed away peacefully at her assisted living facility on July 31, 2024 at the age of 98. Born into the third generation of farmers famous for introducing alfalfa to Minnesota, Armella’s early life was devoted to washing, watering, and weeding on the farm. Ready to live that Mary Tyler Moore life, she moved to the Twin Cities in the early 1940s where she met a real-life Captain America, her husband Robert. They married in 1949 and welcomed their only child, Patricia, in 1954. Later the family moved to a literal forest by the lake in the suburbs, Forest Lake. Armella worked at Tool Products for over 30 years, achieving multiple accolades for her attendance and work ethic. She also perfected a variety of hobbies including creative conservation, squirrel trap engineering, social sewing, and experimental gardening. And of course, we would be remiss to forget her love for playing the accordion and piano. She really did make it after all.
Armella was preceded in death by her husband, Robert McKenzie; and daughter, Patrica (McKenzie) Walters. She is survived by her grandchild, Mary Walters; sister, Florinda; nieces and nephew, Mary, Karen, and Frank; and lifetime family friend, John Vallerie. A special thank you to all family, friends, and neighbors for your prayers and support.
A Celebration of Armella's Life and luncheon will be held 11 AM Thursday, August 8th with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake.
Aunt Armella, you will always be rembered by me for the wonderful times as a child coming to your house for the family picnics during the raspberry festival. I was always so excited for that day. Eating, playing, watching the parade, going to the fair, and then listening to you play the piano. As I have gotten older I realize that these memories will always be so precious to all of us. Rest in peace.
Remembering Armella: As a little boy, (and kind of a bratty one) I was somewhat intimidated by Armella, as I deserved to be. But she was always kind to my brother and me. And we loved Patty!
As I grew up and moved on, decades went by without my seeing Armella. But when we met again (15 years ago?) at a McKenzie family reunion, I was just delighted to see the meet Armella again. Warm and loving, with a big smile and a bigger laugh, she was a truly unique person and a joyous lady.
Armela was an amazing lady who we enjoyed to be around at the lake she always came for breakfast and dinner. She always had wonderful stories and lots of plastic bags/containers for Cindy 🤣we will miss you but will always remember are memories of Bob and you/ family ❤️. Are family loved you!!
Armella became a dear friend as we spent time together at the lake. She was the hardest worker I know and we spent many hours together working on her lot cleaning up leaves and pulling out those pesky dandelions. In her later years she joined us for every meal while spending time at her lake home and during those hours we shared many stories and laughs together. She will be missed by her second family on Chickadee Trail. God speed Armella 💕
From your Columbus neighbors, you will forever be in our hearts.