It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our son, brother, companion and friend, James Stephen MacKinnon on January 10, 2023 as the result of a motor vehicle accident. James was born on December 11, 1998 to parents George and Joanne (MacNeil) MacKinnon in Inverness, NS.

 James was employed as an auto mechanic, a career that he truly enjoyed (most days...) most recently at Seaboard Tire in Port Hawkesbury. He could often be found repairing a vehicle for his friends, family, or for himself in his spare time. He loved tinkering with RC vehicles that he would build, riding his bike, listening to music, or playing guitar or bass, and was always available to lend a helping hand whenever one was needed. He was working towards obtaining his Red Seal in Auto Mechanics, and was hoping to complete it this year. He had purchased his first home and was working hard to make it his own. He was very proud of that, as are we. James was a kind, gentle, caring soul, much like his Dad, and he had so much to give to anyone who was lucky enough to meet him.

He will be missed terribly by all, but especially by his younger brothers Cameron and Daniel. James was an amazing big brother and there were always lots of laughs and inside jokes between them when they were together. James was making plans with his girlfriend Haley Van Den Heuvel to have her move in to his home and make it theirs. (All of that watching HGTV with his Mom must have came in handy when choosing paint and wallpaper..) He had formed a special bond with Haley’s family as well, especially her younger brothers. James was predeceased by his Grandpa James and Grampy Joseph Neil and uncle Stephen.  He leaves behind Grandma Jessie Ann MacKinnon (Alderwood, Baddeck) and Nanny Jean Marie MacNeil (Grass Cove/Iona). I am sure that they will cherish the memories of many sleepovers and cookie baking when he was young. James was incredibly loved by his aunt Mary Lou (Hugh)MacNeil, uncles Hector, Thad (Anne), John C (Rhonda), Gord (Susan) and Charlie (Deborah) and many cousins as well, and was very fortunate to spend lots of time with them as a child and young adult, and have many fun outings and adventures. Also left to grieve, along with his family, many friends and co-workers is his fur baby, his cat Pasta, who he loved very much.

Sadly, this tragedy reminds us that life is temporary and tomorrow is promised to no one. Hold your loved ones close, always tell them that you love them, and make the most of every day that you are fortunate enough to spend with them. If you feel inclined to make a donation in memory of James, please do so by donating to your local SPCA or animal rescue.

A Celebration of Life for James will be held at the Whycocomagh Fire Hall on Wednesday, January 18th , 2023 from 4-8 p.m. Interment at a later date.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Whycocomagh.  Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haveerstocks.com