Calder McKenzie

Calder George McKenzie was born in Kingston, Jamaica on October 24, 1954 at Victoria Jubilee Hospital. He was the son of the late Gladys Foreman and Ceford George McKenzie, and the sibling to Danny and Lawrence. During his time in Jamaica, he developed a passion for electrical engineering while attending Kingston College. After Kingston College, Calder attended CAST (College of Arts, Science and Technology) in Jamaica. It was only fitting that Calder's first passion led him to the love of his life, as he met his soon to be wife Jacqueline while working on an electrical pole in St. Andrew, Jamaica. In Jamaica, Calder was known for his suave demeanor and infectious smile that lit up whatever room he was in. Calder was an avid footballer, who enjoyed playing soccer at Sabina Park in Jamaica with his friends and family.

In the summer of 1978, Calder immigrated to the United States with aspirations of raising a family and furthering his education. On August 25, 1979 Calder married his one and only love, Jacqueline, and that union produced 2 children Asim and Kermar. Calder and Jaqueline remained a loving couple for 42 years, until he bravely fought and eventually succumbed to lung cancer.

During his time in White Plains, New York Calder started out working for MLA Pipette Company, where he calibrated pipettes for the medical laboratory. Shortly after, he moved onto becoming a supervisor at MUCIP Cable Company, where he worked for 15 years. Highly motivated to start his own business, Calder started his Electrical Contracting Company named CGM Technology. Calder operated his business until his final days and gave opportunities to young aspiring Electrical Engineers, who immigrated from Jamaica to the United States.

Upon Retirement, Calder’s vast knowledge and education acquired over the years made him the go to person of friends and family, for any home or outdoor projects they desired. Calder’s huge heart and compassion extended to all those who needed his help, and he always made a point to be a man of his word. When he wasn’t continuing to challenge himself, Calder could be found on his hammock relaxing with his feet up while Chelsea F.C. play on TV. Or he could be found listening and dancing to “She’s Royal” by Tarrus Riley with his loving wife. However, his greatest enjoyment was spending time with his granddaughter Ava in the garden.

Calder is survived by his wife Jacqueline, his 2 children, 2 brothers, 1 grandchild, his mother-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

As we say goodbye to Calder let us honor his legacy by striving to continue to be a unified family. The same way he lit up a room wherever he went, he is now lighting up heaven with his smile and laughter. He’s watching over all of us and letting us know that he is OK. He wants us to continue to love each other and remain in each other’s lives. He wants us to speak his name and reminisce about the time he spent with us. Thank you, Jesus for letting us share so many years with our loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather Calder George McKenzie.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Calder's memory to The St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/GiftFunds/GiftFunds?px=7166347&pg=personal&fr_id=39300