William "Bill" Patrick McDonald

Born September 7th, 1930, he was the son of the late Thomas and Ann (Martin) McDonald. Bill was born, raised, and attended school in Halifax, proud of being an “old south-ender” being raised on Queen Street, and attended St. Mary’s Boy’s School before going on to St. Mary’s University.

He started his career in sales at the J.F. Hartz Company, selling medical equipment and supplies. In 1965 he was asked to head up the purchasing department at the Halifax Infirmary, where he subsequently worked and held positions of increasing responsibility until his retirement in 1993.

He had a great love for golf, in his early days playing at Brightwood, and his later years at Northumberland in Pugwash. He was proud that he played most games with only a 3-wood, 7-iron and putter; and boasted about how many rounds he had played without losing a ball. In his middle years he looked forward to playing hockey each week with the St. Mary’s Alumni Oldtimers.

A man of great faith, he grew up attending St Mary’s Cathedral, but for most of his adult life he was an active member of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, and served actively on many committees and ministries. For a number of years he was an administrative leader of the Light of Life charismatic prayer group.

His passion, though, was his family, and especially spending time with his grandchildren after retirement. His ability to make everyone laugh and put them at ease through humour was unparalleled.

Bill is survived by sons Stephen (Tammy), Sean (Maria) and grandchildren Andrew (Heidi), Emily, Ellen, Will, Michael and Gianna; as well as many nieces and nephews and in-laws. Besides his parents, he was pre-deceased by his wife of almost 61 years, Monica (Flinn) in 2021, an infant son, Michael, and brothers Jack and Tom.

The family would like to thank St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, particularly the staff of the 4th floor, for their care and kindness over the past 18 months, and in particular during his final days.

Visitation will be at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, Sunday, Sept 10, from 4PM-7PM. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, September 11th, 10AM, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church on Oxford Street in Halifax.

A private interment for family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, an organization that was close to his heart.