It is with sadness we announce the passing of Charlie MacDonald at the young age of 97. He passed away peacefully, with his wife by his side in Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital on Thursday, January 10, 2019. He was born September 25, 1921, son to Daniel and Jessie (MacLean) MacDonald. Charlie, at a young age went to "Normal College"; after graduating with his teaching license he taught in many of the one-room schools in Inverness and Victoria Counties. The first school was Head Lake. His last position was at Whycocomagh Consolidated School as a Librarian. Charlie was a founding member of the MacDonald House Museum (which was his childhood home). He was the first president of the Lake Ainslie Historical Society and on the Board of Directors of the Lake Ainslie Weavers Guild. Being very proud of his heritage and the history of Lake Ainslie, Charlie and his wife Jessie generously donated the property to the LA Historical Society. He served in many positions on the Board of Directors for the Museum/Historical Society, first as President, needless to say he was an honorary member up to the time of his passing. Charlie was a member of the Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church, was an active elder for many years, and served as a Clerk of Session until he felt it should be handed to another elder. Although he was no longer an active elder, he was also an Honorary Elder. He also served on the Cemetery Committee as Treasurer.
Charlie enjoyed talking to people and could tell a person stories of things that happened throughout his life in Lake Ainslie. After 96 years he knew a lot of the history. He could tell a funny story too, you could decide by the twinkle in his eyes if it was 100% true or not. People were always welcome in their home and Cape Breton traditions were certainly a part of their home, the teapot was always ready to be filled, the biscuits were on the counter and the cookie can was opened. We will miss seeing Charlie out for his walks, using his cane to guide him along the side. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jessie (MacLean); son, Charles, East Lake Ainslie; grandchildren, Bobby, Halifax and Jessica, Fort McMurray; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides his parents he was predeceased by his daughter, Gwynn; sisters, Eva Larken (Fred), Hannah Harrington (Guy) and Julie Cameron (Donald); and 2 nieces. There will be no visitation by request. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 17 in East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church with Rev. Louis Ihasz celebrating. Burial in Lake Ainslie Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church or the Lake Ainslie Historical Society.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
