Neil MacDonald

Neil MacDonald June 1st 1940-June 30th 2026

Heaven’s gates have opened wide to receive our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, Neil MacDonald. Neil passed away peacefully at his home in Florence where many cherished memories were made with his family. 

Much loved by his family and friends, he had a kind word for everyone. It was rare to see “Neily” without a smile on his face. He loved his daily walks, often stopping to talk to many friends in the neighbourhood along the way. He loved telling stories about his younger years; from his time on the lake boats, to his years spent as a successful businessman, having founded MacDonald’s Dairy, Munchees Sub Shop, Munchees Pizza; and his own car dealership, Neil MacDonald Enterprises. Somehow, “Gampy” also found the time to give back to his community through his work with the former Northside-Victoria School Board, having ended his career as a much loved and well-respected school bus driver.

The word “no” was never part of Neil’s vocabulary. He was a kind and generous man, often putting the needs of others ahead of his own. He was always nearby to offer a hand, tools, support, or simply just a listening ear.

“Da” spent 62 years by the side of his beloved wife, Beulah, who predeceased him in August of 2023. There wasn’t a day gone by that he didn’t share fond memories of their lives together; from RV’ing across Canada and the US, camping alongside many cherished friends in both Englishtown and Baddeck, or simply watching their “stories” together at home. We take comfort in knowing that both Neily & Beulah are reunited in heaven at last; as he missed her so deeply.

At his request, Neil spent his final months at home under the Palliative Care program. Our family cannot extend enough gratitude to the Palliative Care Team - Dr. George Burns, Dr. Andrew Giorno & nurse Julia Penny; whose exceptional care made it possible. Special thanks to the staff of Northside Homemakers for the compassionate care & conversations that provided Neily with so much comfort - he thought the world of his entire care team and was so gracious for all of your support. 

Additionally, Neil received incredible care and attention from his children who made staying at home possible: his son, Edward (Sherry), Michele (Shaun) MacLean, and Nancy (John “Doc”) Graham. Gampy will be ever missed by his grandchildren, Erica Fox (Ryan), Lucee, Leo (Haleigh) & Mila (Ben) MacLean; Kiana MacDonald (Kyle), Summer Graham; and great-grandchildren Navy, Georgia, Keegan and Lyla.  Neil was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He was predeceased by his siblings Marie, Alex, Lally, Jerome, Loretta and Margaret; and special niece Bernadette MacDonald.

There will be a Funeral Mass to celebrate Neil’s life on Friday July 3rd, 2026 at 11 am, in Holy Family Parish in Sydney Mines. A reception will follow the service at the Holy Family Parish Hall. Words of comfort may be forwarded to his family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com 

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