First Officer MacKenzie Gunther, 24, unexpectedly passed much too soon on March 23rd in LaGuardia, New York.
He was born in Ottawa, Ontario on September 14, 2001 to David and Krista Gunther sporting a full head of hair. He will be missed by his wife Hanna, parents David and Krista, his sister Rosie (Julie), grandparents Judy Mackenzie, Norma and George Gunther, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his grandfather Bruce Mackenzie, who introduced him to the wonders of aviation.
MacKenzie married his high school sweetheart, and the love of his life, Hanna, in 2024. They were partners in crime, living life to its fullest with many beautiful outdoor adventures and looked forward to exploring the world together. They made sure to make the most of every opportunity they had together.
MacKenzie had endless energy and was always up to experience new things. He could often be found extensively researching and planning his next adventure. His interests were expansive and ever growing. He nurtured a passion for coffee, right down to the beans and the best way to brew a cup of coffee. During the summers, he enjoyed his time outside gardening, tinkering with his latest projects or out on the water fishing. MacKenzie loved experimenting in the kitchen and trying different cuisines. He was passionate about crafting delicious meals that some thought of as works of art.
MacKenzie was curious and had a need to understand how things worked. He was the technology expert in the family and was regularly on the phone with his parents and grandparents for IT support, always armed with an immense amount of patience.
MacKenzie was a fun loving goofball who loved to pull a good prank and get a rise. He would also sit and chat with anyone for hours, whether that was to fiercely debate a topic, sharing insight far too wise for his age or talk about nothing in particular. He had the ability to connect with anyone and made an impact on all those he came into contact with.
He was passionate about flying and was eager to share his love of aviation with anyone who would listen, often providing far more information than anyone could retain. He was excited to start his career in aviation with Jazz, joining them in 2024 as a First Officer on an aircraft he loved, the CRJ 900. He loved exploring the new cities his work brought him to whether it was just walking the town, visiting the sights or trying all the best local food. He often bragged how he had the best office view of all of us.
MacKenzie will be missed immensely by his family, friends and colleagues. A Private Celebration of Life will be held with close family and friends.
An Award Fund has been set up in honour of MacKenzie with Seneca Polytechnic. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to support aspiring young pilots. Tax receipts will be issued by Seneca for all donations of $20 and above.
Ways to Donate:
Online at: give.senecapolytechnic.ca/Gunther
By phone: 437-312-0296
By cheque: Mail a cheque payable to Seneca to: Seneca Advancement, 1750 Finch Ave E., Toronto, ON, M2J 2X5
Please specify "MacKenzie Gunther”
To MacKenzie: “Fly high, clear skies and tailwinds, until we meet again.”