We, the family of Colin Charles MacKinnon, regret to announce his death on his 89th birthday, April 23, 2018, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Sydney April 23rd, 1929, he was the son of the late Alex Charles & Margaret (Smith) MacKinnon of Valley Mills. Colin worked for CN Rail as a telegraph operator for 40 years. He was a member of St. Giles Presbyterian church where in former years he served on the board of managers. He was a member of the CN Pensions Club and he enjoyed watching “his team” the Screaming Eagles at Centre 200. Until recently he and his wife enjoyed camping many a summer in Ingonish, with family and friends. Colin is survived by his wife of 64 years, Patrica and his children, Cal (Debby), Gary, Shelley (Jimmy Johnston) and Tanya. Also left to mourn are his grandchildren, Corey (Sarah), Jared (Marisha), Ashley, Sara, Patrick, Jordan, and Joshua. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren, Fiona, Alistair, and Llewellyn. Survived by his brother, Frank of Louisiana and brother-in-law, Neil MacLean of Orangedale; sisters-in-law, Jessie MacKenzie and Margie Reid (Neil) as well as several nieces and nephews. Colin was predeceased by his parents and sister, Jessie Maclean. Family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. John Kirkpatrick, Dr. Khodadad and staff at the Cancer Centre, the VON and palliative care team and caring staff of 4 West Northside General Hospital. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 24th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Fillmore Whitman Funeral Home, Clyde Ave, Sydney Mines. Funeral on April 25th at 11 a.m. at St. Giles Presbyterian Church, Campbell Street with Officiating Rev. Ritchie Robinson, interment will be in Malagawatch Cemetery. Online condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.fillmoreandwhitman.com. If desired, donations in Colin’s memory may be made to either St. Giles Building Fund or the Malagawatch Cemetery Fund.
