This is not just our loss, but it is huge loss to the entire community and beyond. It is an understatement to say that he loved music, Pius lived for music. He received his first guitar from Father Stanley MacDonald, to whom we owe a huge debt of gratitude, and there was no stopping him from then on. Pius taught himself to play that guitar and sing. He went on to learn to play the fiddle and mandolin. In the face of adversity Pius excelled in his music. He was generous with his talent, sharing it graciously with others by playing at concerts, the Manor, benefits and the list goes on. He was very devoted and dedicated to his community. He played at the Glenora Distillery for many years. He organized a concert in the lounge on Thursday nights for the people in the Senior Apartments where he resided. If Pius committed himself to play somewhere he was determined to get there no matter the weather, even if he had to walk or hitch hike, he was getting there.
He spent many Saturday nights in West Mabou playing along with every fiddler that played there but his proudest moments were playing with his nephew Ian MacDougall. Pius helped a lot of young musicians over the years with his knowledge of the music. He inspired and encouraged them to believe in themselves and to play from the heart and most of all to enjoy the music that they play.
Pius was a generous kind soul with a huge heart, he was always in good cheer with a big smile on his face. He had the ability to brighten everyone's day. He made friends everywhere he went. If someone was trying to find out who you were you would just say "do you know Pius Mac Isaac", he knew everyone. He had a great sense of humor and a big personality. Oh, how he will be missed!
Besides music, Pius's other passion was his Toronto Maple Leafs.
Pius is survived by brothers, Anthony (Theresa), Joseph (Darlene), Dougie, Jimmy (Hilda), Alex (Sarah), Angus (Janie) and sisters, Anne Marie (Nat) Croucher, Sadie Moloney, Catherine MacIsaac, Stella (Todd) Goyetche, Teresa MacPherson and Maggie (Dany) MacIsaac. He is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews, his special goddaughter Lucy as well as his Aunt Mary MacLean and Uncle James Ryan.
Besides his parents Pius was predeceased by his twin brother Pat, as well as his brother, Duncan and his sister, Rita Marie both in infancy. He is also predeceased by brothers-in-laws, Francis Moloney, Alexander MacPherson and sister-in-law, Pat Smal.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 16th from 2-7 pm in St. Mary's Church, Mabou. Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 17th in Stella Maris Church, Inverness with Father Danny MacLennan officiating.
Family flowers only please. In appreciation upon family request, masks are to be worn.
Memorial donations can be made to Stella Maris Church, Inverness, St. Mary's Church, Mabou or to a charity of one's choice.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
As Pius always said: "THANK GOD FOR THE GIFT OF MUSIC".
