Obituary of Brian MacDonald

It is with great sadness that the family of Brian MacDonald, age 73, Ashfield, Inverness County, announce his passing on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at St Martha's Regional Hospital, Antigonish.

He was born in Toronto Ontario, where he lived until the age of 8, then returning to the family homestead in Ashfield.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathy and their daughter Alison. Proud Grandpa to Grayson and Zachary.

Also survived by sister in laws, Elizabeth Bridges, Ria Van hees, Annabelle ( Duncan) McRae, Charolette O'donnell, Suzanne ( Dwight) Coffey, brother in law Daniel ( Marilyn) MacDonald. He also leaves behind 7 nephews, 1 niece and many lifelong friends.

He was predeceased by parents, Robert and Janet MacDonald and brother in law's John MacDoanld and Richard Bridges.

Anyone that knew Dad, knew he had a great sense of humor and was very smart with his sports and music trivia, often joking he should try his chances for jeopardy.

If it wasn't a hockey game or ball game he was watching, his music was meeting you at the front door and don't think you were turning the volume down without hearing, " if my music is too loud, you are too old." If the Leafs were losing a big game, especially to the Habs, and the phone was ringing, he would jokingly say, tell them I'm not home. Everyone knew there would be no other place he would be but watching the game.

Music was a huge part of his life, and he was able to see his favorites live in concert, John Prine, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen to name a few. He loved travelling around and catching any live music that was happening. 

The last number of years, he struggled with mobility and breathing issues. This was hard on him as he could no longer be on the go like he always loved to be. We want to send a special thank you to Danie Mackinnon, who was always there to lend a hand. We also want to acknowledge 2 very special people who held a huge part in his heart, Fredrick and Mary MacKinnon.

The family would also like to thank the nurses at St. Martha's Regional Hospital for their care over the last few months. Palliative care nurses, Tara Bekkers and Kathy Chisholm, in such a short time, you will never know how much you did for us, you are true angels. We would also like to thank Dr. Howard and Dr. Rice for your professionalism, compassion and care during his last days.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 17th from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Dennis Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Whycocomagh. A graveside service will be held at 11 am, Wednesday, October 18th at Stewartdale Cemetery with Reverend John Tapscott officiating.

Family flowers only, please. Memorial donations may be made to the IWK or a charity of one's choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Whycocomagh. 

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."