Donald A. MacDonald

80, East Bay

It is with great sadness that we, the family, of Donnie Duncan MacDonald announce his peaceful passing surrounded by his family on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in the An Cala palliative care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Detroit, Mich., on Feb. 6, 1931, Donnie was the eldest child of Duncan and Katherine (MacMaster) MacDonald of East Bay.

Donnie lived his entire life in East Bay and was a member of St. Mary’s parish.

He spent his working years in the trucking and forest industries where he met many people with whom he became lifelong friends.

Donnie is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Rita (MacInnis); and daughters, Margaret, Judy ‘Dody’ (Chris) Wilbur, Helen, Michelle (Ronnie) Penny; sons, Donald Allan and Paul (Shirley Anne). Donnie was a very proud Poppy to his loving grandchildren, Emily, Jacob, Matthew and Ryan. Donnie is also survived by sisters, Teresa (Martin) MacInnis, Anne (Michael) MacIntyre, Jean (Jim) Finn; brothers, Malcolm (Mary), Paul (Pam), and Leo (Florence). Donnie will be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Donnie was predeceased by his parents, Duncan and Katherine, sisters, Helen and Elaine, brothers, Charlie and Francis.

Donnie had a special love for Scottish music and was an avid fan of boxing and hockey, and he took a special interest in following the NHL career of Port Hood’s Al MacInnis.

Visitation will be held at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s parish, East Bay, on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, at 11 a.m. with Fathers Frank Abbass and Dan MacInnis presiding.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of 4B and the An Cala palliative care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for the excellent care and kindness they provided to Donnie during his illness.

Donations may be made to the An Cala palliative care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.twcurry.com.

“Pleasant Dreams, Dad”