John Neil MacDonald
Born In: Grand Anse Richmond Co.
Born: May 27th, 1917
Passed in: Sydney
Passed on: August 26th, 2015
It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our dad, grandfather, uncle, friend, and comrade, John Neil MacDonald, 98, on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2015, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney, surrounded by his family.
Born in Grand Anse, Richmond County, on May 27, 1917, he was a son of the late Hugh A. and Cassie (MacIntosh) MacDonald and was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Promoted to Lance Corporal with the 1st Battalion Canadian Scottish Regiment, Dad served overseas in England, France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany. He was a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 126, Westmount. Upon returning home in 1946 on the RMS Mauretania, Dad found employment with Mindamar Metals at the Sterling Rock Mine, Sterling. For several years, Dad also worked at the Point Edward Naval Base, before taking a job at Municipal Ready Mix, where he worked for 20 years, retiring in 1983. Being an avid reader, he was known for his quick wit. Dad enjoyed the outdoors, especially in the garden, tending to his tomato plants. His passion for animals led to a variety of wildlife at the door. Dad always had a great outlook on life and found the good in people. He had a wealth of knowledge and we referred to him as “Our Google”. Dad always believed where there is life there is hope.
Surviving are daughters, Helen Charlong (Jerry), Westmount, Sandra, at home (Norman MacDonald, East Bay) and Donna MacLeod (Blair), Howie Center; grandchildren, Maureen Charlong, Westmount and Ian Charlong (Sandra), New Brunswick and Tyler and Cassie MacLeod, Howie Center; and several loving nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law.
Besides his parents, Dad was predeceased by his loving wife, Hattie (Hendsbee) MacDonald in 2011; brothers, Dan (Jessie) and Duncan (in infancy); and sisters, Barbara and Peggy (Stanley).
Visitation will take place at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Sunday, Aug. 30 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held at Westmount United Church on Monday, Aug. 31 at 10 a.m., with Rev. Thomas Whent officiating. Reception to follow at the Westside Legion, Midgley Drive. Interment will take place at Black River United Church Cemetery.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff and management of the Cove Guest Home for the excellent care dad received over the past 11 months. Dad leaves behind many wonderful friends and memories.
Memorials in dad’s memory may be made to the Veteran’s Comfort Fund, SPCA, or charity of your choice.
Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or email sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
