Long-time Acton Citizens' Band member Marv McRonald passed away last Sunday, one day short of his 78th birthday. His band jacket and trombone were displayed beside his casket at a celebration in his honour at the Living Hope Church in Georgetown on Wednesday. Well over 100 people attended the service. After a eulogy by Dr. Paul Little, about a dozen members of the band were on hand with their instruments to send him off with a tasteful rendition of Amazing Grace.
Marvin William McRonald was many things to many people. He was a formidable bridge player, avid photographer, and he and his wife Audrey loved to travel. The couple raised four children: Ryan, David, Sharon, and Paul, all of whom were in the Citizens' Band at one time. “He instilled in us a love of music,” according to his daughter Sharon Lowe.
Photo: 1984 Brent Stock piano, with Marv, Ryan David- trombones trumpet
Born in Durham, Ont., in 1945, Marv grew up in Hanover, Ont., where he first picked up the trombone. He read for his Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Waterloo where he also received his engineering degree. He went on to garner his MBA in business administration from McMaster University in Hamilton.
Marv's working life was spent in managerial and administrative positions at Nortel in Brampton and at the Ford Motor Company in Oakville, where he took on tasks of increasing responsibility. When not working, he enjoyed playing table games and researching his family tree.
Marv joined the Acton Citizens' Band in the early 1990s. He was known as a dedicated and skillful trombonist. Marv logged over 30 years with the band, playing in most of the ensemble's engagements including concerts, parades and rehearsals. He also enjoyed working with young musicians and was supportive of them.
Photo: 2012 Winds Of Worship - GAC Brass-Woodwind Ensemble
Former bandmaster Jeff Carr played trombone alongside Marv in the band remembers his enthusiasm and dedication. “Marv used to drive me back and forth from band practice when I was staying in Georgetown. He was often involved in small group ensembles, as a trombonist, in the community rehearsing and enjoying the company of fellow musicians. Marv and I played together in the ACB for many years. I considered him a good friend and enjoyed our conversations in between pieces.”
Fellow trombonist Bruce McBurney recalls Marv wearing these huge, bright red gloves when he was marching in the annual Acton Santa Claus Parade. “I once asked him, what's with gloves? I mean we're marching and it gets hot and it must be cumbersome to play the trombone. He told me, 'That's so the kids can see me when I wave.' But the hard part during the parades was keeping him in the parade. There was always someone along the parade route that he'd be talking to.”
Marv McRonald is survived by his wife Audrey, 4 children and 7 grandchildren. According to Dr. Little: “He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to his family and his faith, that will be remembered for generations to come.”
Photo: Singing Oh Canada Abby Evan accompanied by Grandpa McRonald on trombone
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