It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather on Sunday, July 5th, at the age of 90. Born June 25th, 1930, Edinburgh, Scotland, he was the eldest son of Jean (Fairbairn) and Norman Macdonald.
Predeceased by his infant daughter Morna and brother Murdoch, John is survived by his ever-loving wife Margaret (Burns) Macdonald of 63 years; children, Shona, Kirsty, and Rory (Donna-Lynn); grandchildren, Maggie and Duncan Touesnard; Allia, Neal and Shay Ruparelia; and Callie Macdonald. In Scotland, brother Godfrey (Hilary) Macdonald, cousin Betty, brother-in-law Denis (Rona), sister-in-law Helen (Duncan) and several nieces and nephews.
Being brought up near the sea and influenced by sea captain neighbours, at age 16 he went to sea and attended Nautical School, Port of Leith, Edinburgh. He started with Currie Shipping Line of Leith as navigating cadet and was a Master Mariner by the age of 26.
During his Nautical School years, he met Margaret, “my first-class ‘Mate’ and lifelong love”. Together they went to Aden, Yemen, where he was a Marine Pilot for 10 years, during which time they had their family. John loved piloting; in piloting he found his niche.
After Aden, the family moved back to Scotland and John worked in Libya for 5 years. The family then emigrated to Canada where for 10 years he was the Marine Superintendent at Canaport, Saint John, New Brunswick, with Standard Oil of California.
John then joined Transport Canada, Coast Guard Division, as a Marine Safety Inspector in Sydney, Nova Scotia, where he and Margaret lived for 16 years until moving to Halifax following his retirement.
Throughout their lives, the Captain and his classy First Mate were fortunate to travel to many corners of this amazing world. And now, home is the sailor, home from the sea.
A memorial service and reception will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, School Street, Dartmouth, when services resume.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Mission to Seafarers Halifax.
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