MacDONALD, WILLIAM ALEXANDER FRANCIS - 1916 - 2011 - How well William Alexander Francis MacDonald lived! Born in Cape Breton on February 16, 1916, Bill passed away peacefully in Oakville on Thursday, October 6th. We have so many wonderful memories of this special man, but many of us will remember him best with his ukulele in his hand and a twinkle in his eye, leading family and friends in a sing song. He was a wonderful poet and song writer, and wrote a love poem for his wife Marion, every anniversary. He ‘shot his age’ several times playing golf throughout his 80's and early 90's, and he never ever lost his sense of curiosity and wonder. Bill loved music and people and laughter... but most of all, Bill loved Marion, his wife of 70 years. Theirs was a true love match, right to the very last day when she sat at his bedside and he patted and stroked her hand in a communication that didn't need words. Bill began his career with the Bank of Nova Scotia, but this was interrupted by World War II. Bill served overseas for five years with the Cape Breton Highlanders rising to the rank of Captain. He spent the majority of his working life as the Coca Cola bottler in Moncton, New Brunswick. After the business sold, Bill joined London Life, selling annuities and insurance well into his 70's. Bill is survived by his wife Marion (Buck), his brother Bruce McDonald, his three children, Jean Wright (Peter), Bruce MacDonald (Dianne), and Alice Court (David), seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Bill often said to us, "Be careful how you live, you may be the only bible some people ever read". We are all fortunate to have had the opportunity to read Bill's life.
There was a family celebration of Bill's life October 9th at the home of Tim and Alice Wilson, grand daughter. Bill will be cremated and his memorial service and interment will take place in Moncton, New Brunswick at a later time. Donations may be made in Bills Honour to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.oakviewfuneral.ca