Gerard was born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 28th, 1963. After spending his early years with his Beaton family in Welland, Ontario, and every summer in Cape Breton, Gerard returned to the beautiful community of Mabou. There, he was lovingly welcomed by his extended MacDonald family, Grandparents Angus Johnny Ban and Katie Margaret, Aunt Christianna, Uncle Jack, Uncle Roddie and Aunt Margie who created a second Mabou home for him alongside his cousins Angus, Lorna, Sharon, Wayne, and Devin. Gerard loved his time in Mabou and the community loved him just as deeply in return.
Gerard grew up enjoying the outdoors, often working and living close to the land. He embraced adventure, travelling across the country with a genuine curiosity for new places and the people he met. As a young man, he returned to West Mabou, where days were spent surrounded by others—long afternoons at the beach, guitars pulled out, stories shared, and laughter carrying into the night.
In time, Gerard met Claire, and he made the short journey from Mabou to Footecape, where they built a warm and welcoming home in their farmhouse. There they cared for their horses, Beauty and Jesse, and their puppy Jack. Above all, they became devoted and proud parents to their daughters, Annie and Olivia. Together, the family shared the responsibilities of the land, visited local beaches, shared a love of music, tended to vibrant gardens and fruit trees, and raised animals with care – especially Finn, Gerard’s steadfast co-pilot. Gerard taught his daughters to be curious about the world, and to stay curious. Young cousins and friends of the girls had many exciting adventures with Gerard, exploring the natural beauty of Inverness County! As Annie and Olivia grew, pursued their studies, found meaningful work, and became artists, community organizers and planners, they brought Gerard immeasurable pride and joy.
Gerard is survived by daughters, Annie and Olivia MacDonald, and his wife, Claire Brennan; his mother-in-law, Lorraine Brennan; his Brennan, Taylor, O’Grady, Falencki and Ryan in-laws; his nieces, nephews, and grandniece. He is also survived by his brother, Sean Beaton (Sylvain); Aunt Margie MacDonald; and cousins Lorna (Danny), Sharon (Mike), Wayne (Colleen), Devin (Koryne), Angus, and Brenda Rankin MacDonald and families, along with his Halifax cousins Sandy, Cathy Laurie, Aunt Susanna and their families. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Beaton and father, Bernie Beaton; uncles, Alexander, Roddie, Jack and aunt Christianna (Dougall) MacDonald.
Gerard, a friend to so many, will be remembered for his kindness, his easy smile, and the way he always made time for a quick chat with those he encountered. Whether he was working on a project, heading to his beloved land in West Mabou, checking a racecard, hitting the beach for a quick dip, or running into the Freshmart or Co-op, he would pause to share a laugh before carrying on. He believed that life’s true worth is found in the connections we make—and he lived that belief every day. Gerard’s passing is a tremendous loss, yet his spirit will continue to echo through the stories told, the songs played, and the memories cherished by all who loved him. Visitation will take place on Tuesday December 9th, 2025 from 4pm-7pm in Inverness Funeral Home. Gerard will be laid
to rest with his mother in Mabou at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneraalhome.com
