Loving father of Keara and Malcolm, loving son of Norman and Ambrosa MacNeil, former partner of Brenda Runnalls. He will be missed by his siblings, nieces, and nephews: Rosalie (Len Lefebvre, Everett, Sylvie), Norman (Veronica Chandler, Ryan, Danielle), Laurine (Chris Over, Rachel, Mitchell, Madeline) and Cameron (Jason Clapp), and by dozens of cousins, aunts, uncles and countless friends and clients. Donald was the owner of Motorworks Automotive for 25 years. He was a Certified Mechanic specializing in high-end European brands. His skills were always in high demand. His life-long passion was to own his own shop so he could work on and race exotic cars. In 2016 he achieved his dream of competing in the Targa Newfoundland, placing 4th in class on his first attempt!
Before becoming a family man, he lived adventures; travelling Europe working as a race mechanic, and spending six months in Banff working on ski-lifts just so he could ski until June. Many will know Donald from his hockey playing years when he minded the net for many teams and even appeared on TV as a goalie. Donald’s initial post-secondary education was at Ontario College of Art. He had an artistic eye and loved welding engine parts together to form whimsical sculptures. Where everyone else saw a spark plug, he saw a world of possibilities. At the annual Christmas gift exchange, we all fought over Donald's creative hand-made gifts. He loved to draw, build model ships and cars, and always had at least 20 different creative projects on the go. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. His storytelling rivalled that of his father (a legend in a family of storytellers). He loved his mom's apple pie (also legendary) and Sunday roast beef dinners, and never left without a care package. His impact on the community was significant as he was always willing to help anyone in need. The family appreciates all the kind messages of love and support, from Cape Breton to Texas and beyond. Cremation has taken place and a memorial event will be planned for a time more conducive to gathering, as Donald loved big get-togethers. Arrangements entrusted to Thorpe Brothers’ Funeral Home & Chapel. 519-759-2211. Memories and condolences of Donald may be shared online at www.thorpebrothersfh.com
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