Miriam MacDonald
Born: March 14th, 1943
It is with a great deal of sadness, but also with a great deal of gratitude for having her with us for 68 years, that we make known to her many friends and acquaintances, the passing of Miriam MacDonald.
Born March 14, 1943, to the late Roderick (Odgie) and Christena (Cameron) MacDonald, Miriam touched the hearts and souls of numerous people in many and varied ways. She was a kind person, a gentle person who accepted what life had given her in a very pragmatic way. She had a way of passing on to others this quiet way of dealing with the ups and down so inherent in those with special needs.
Miriam was an active member of her community and gave to each undertaking her full attention. Miriam began her journey as one of the original members at the Activity Centre located in the former St. Ninian Street School. From there she went to the CACL program on Kirk Street where she grew and prospered in those programs designed to promote independence.
At the time of her death, Miriam was a resident in Hope House, L’Arche, Hawthorne Street. From there she continued her involvement in special programs such as Corner Stone.
Miriam had many passions in life. Her ability to skate was well known providing to many a suitable partner for a skate around the arena.
Special Olympics held a high priority for Miriam winning many medals and recognition in various sports. She represented Nova Scotia at the Special Olympics in Regina. Her singing ability was widely recognized and she took great satisfaction in performing. She combined her two loves of singing and Special Olympics by singing O Canada at the opening of many Olympic Games. She faithfully sang in the senior choir of St. Ninian’s Cathedral for many years.
Miriam had a terrific memory and if a birth date was required all one had to do was ask her. She had a special fondness for Peter MacKay, never missing an opportunity to talk to him or have her picture taken with him.
Miriam is survived by her sisters, Claire, Abigail, Isabel (John) Tramble, Beverly (Bill) MacNeil and many nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Kenneth and his wife, Marcie.
The family thanks all Miriam’s caregivers for their devotion to her. A special thanks to L’Arche personnel as well as St. Martha’s palliative care and the residents for their support to Miriam and the family during this difficult time. Their presence made Miriam’s death a special, peaceful experience.
Visitation was in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish, Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Ninian’s Cathedral at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011, with Fr. Andrew Boyd presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery.
Donations to L’Arche, Antigonish or St. Martha’s palliative care.
www.MacIsaacs.ca
