Joseph "Wayne" Neil MacDonell

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother. Wayne MacDonell, 56, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday October 24th, 2010, following a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Wayne was born in Toronto, Ontario., on December 8th, 1953, to Margaret and the late Angus MacDonell. His family then moved to Glencoe Station where he met and fell in love with his high school sweetheart, and lifelong best friend, Anne. Wayne and Anne were married on September 29, 1972 and recently celebrated 38 wonderful years of marriage.

From an early age, Wayne’s passion was music. He grew up with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams as his musical influences. Wayne took his passion on the road and formed The Connections with friends Alex Dan, Blaise, and Gerry. No matter the occasion, and especially when friends and family were together, Wayne was always happy to share his amazing voice.

Wayne had a way with children; you could always find him surrounded by laughter. There was no better father than Wayne. Wayne leaves behind three heartbroken children, Denise MacDonell-Cook (Jamie), Dean (Patricia), and Craig (Michelle). Wayne’s pride and joy were his five grandchildren – Avery, Cadence, Gus, Finlay and Caleb. Wayne will live on forever, having passed his legacy of kindness, integrity and music to his children and grandchildren.

No matter the situation, you could always count on Wayne for a smile and a laugh. In the end, Wayne was still cracking jokes, telling stories and giving his family memories to recall for years to come. Laughter was always the best medicine for Wayne and all who loved him. We will miss hearing “How’s she goin’ George” when we drop in for a visit, or, “What’s your hurry?” when we try to leave. Wayne loved to laugh about the escapades over the years with his brothers and sisters. Wayne leaves behind five brothers, A.D.; Gary (Valerie), David (Sheila), Glen (Annette), Ronnie (Lori); and sister, Diane (Charlie) Beaton. Wayne is joining his youngest sister, Marcey Cameron, in heaven.

Visitation will be at the Port Hood Resting Place on Wednesday October 27th from 7PM – 9PM and Thursday October 28th from 2PM – 4PM and 7PM – 9PM. Funeral mass will be held on Friday October 29th at 11AM at St. Peter’s Church, Port Hood with Fr. Victor officiating. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Port Hood Resting Place, the St. Peter’s Parish Cemetary Fund, or to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences may be sent to www.invernessfuneralhome.com

“Without a song the day would never end. Without a song a man ain't got a friend. Without a song the road would never bend. Without a song. So I keep singing.” – Elvis Presley

Arrangements under the direction of Inverness Funeral Home, Inverness, NS.