Introduction

In a remarkable turn of events, 101-year-old Mary McEachern from Edmonton is embroiled in a legal dispute with Rotary Canada regarding her late husband's substantial $40 million estate. Steve McEachern, who passed away at the age of 99 during the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2020, had initially designated Rotary Foundation Canada as the estate's primary beneficiary outside of his widow's living expenses.

Mary's Claims

According to Mary, her husband had intended to change the will to ensure that the funds would benefit multiple Canadian charities, particularly those serving the local Edmonton community, before he passed away. She claims he was passionate about supporting organizations that focused on “real people” within their community.

Ongoing Legal Battle

Despite her offers to settle the matter by donating $13 million of the estate to the Rotary Foundation, the organization has opted to continue the legal battle, leaving Mary feeling vulnerable and unheard. "I miss him very much. We both agreed on how we wanted the money to be used - to help those in our part of the world," she expressed in a touching interview.

Steve McEachern’s Legacy

Steve McEachern was a celebrated figure in Edmonton, having dedicated nearly 65 years to Investors Group Wealth Management and actively participating in various charitable organizations throughout his life. He was a devoted Rotarian who served on several boards and made significant contributions to numerous causes, including STARS, The Salvation Army, and local educational institutions.

Dispute Over Intentions

The issues arising from this estate dispute highlight a growing tension between local charitable priorities and larger national organizations. Mary accuses Rotary Canada of exploiting the situation and not honoring her husband’s true wishes. "I can't believe that Rotary could be so mean and so greedy, asking me about financial details instead of offering condolences," she lamented.

Community Support

As the legal proceedings continue, Mary’s family has rallied support, launching a campaign to prevent further delays in her ability to distribute funds to local charities, which she believes would have aligned with her husband’s philanthropic vision. She hopes to establish scholarships for nursing students and support multiple charities, including Alzheimer's Society of Canada and the Multiple Sclerosis Society, upon her passing.

Rotary Foundation's Response

In response, Eva Vida, president of the Rotary Foundation Canada, acknowledged the McEacherns' longstanding support, stating, "We regret that this issue is still with the courts and look forward to a timely and reasonable resolution," emphasizing that the foundation is committed to honoring Steve's legacy while adhering to the stipulations of his will.

Conclusion

This conflict not only reveals the intricate dynamics of charity legacies but also raises questions about how best to honor the wishes of benefactors while serving the broader community. As this story unfolds, it remains a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of philanthropy and the sometimes heart-wrenching complexities involved in estate matters.