Charles Gilbert “Gil” MacIsaac
March 2, 1949 – April 15, 2022
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We are heartbroken to announce the peaceful passing of Gil at St. Martha’s hospital on Friday, April 15 with the love of his life, Pat, by his side.
Born in Inverness, Gil was the son of the late Hughie Jim & Margaret MacIsaac of Troy. Gil is survived by his wife Pat, Troy, step children Tracy Marin (Martin), Hubbards, Darren Sangster (Anna), Stellarton, and Michelle Sangster, New Glasgow. Grandchildren Molly, Madi, Lili-Anne, and Malcolm. Also left to grieve is Gil’s sister Peggy (Halifax), nephew and nieces that he treated more like his children, Gary, Wolfville, Stacy (Ray), Mount Uniacke, Peggy (Andrew), Halifax, and Moira (Jose), Port Hawkesbury. His brother-in-law Glen (Debbie) which he shared a valued friendship. As well as grand nieces and nephews Jonah, Maxden, Jayden, Julianna, Annlise & Rory. Gil was predeceased by both parents, brother Hughie (Anne), sister Louise all of Troy, and brother Allan Joseph at birth.
Gil was a member of Stella Maris Paris, Creignish and Local 244 Antigonish. He graduated from Mabou Consolidated and became a Pipefitter & Welder by trade. Early on Gil worked in Baffin Island for the Hudson Bay Company and then for Stora Enso. He also travelled for work in construction. Gil’s true passion was working with Pat on building, and continuously improving, their accommodation businesses.
Gilbert & Pat owned and operated The Capeway Motel, and Celtic Shores Coastal Inn & Suites at two locations in their community. In both locations, Gil did what he did best, he made things better. He put his handyman skills to work at both properties and thoroughly enjoyed conversing with people from all over the world. Gil was also an avid gardener and was quite proud of his gardens. Behind his blue eyes there resided an excellent listener. He was able to overcome his natural shyness because he was genuinely interested in what people had to say; especially if someone made him laugh. Aside from opening their home to tourists, Gil and Pat opened their home to Michelle and her girls for a period of time. Gil opened his heart and lovingly embraced them. He also had a soft spot for his cat Erica, who is already feeling his absence.
Gil’s nieces and nephew were fortunate enough to grow up with Gilbert by their side, at every step of the way. He provided endless love, guidance, and sometimes helped promote mischief, with Louise often bearing the brunt.
The MacDougall children (nieces and nephew) will always treasure their memories with their uncle. Memories at the beach, assisting him with repairs to his Pinto, and receiving the very best gifts. The best gift of all was the love and the true quality time that he spent with them.
He always had time for tea, sweets, and cheese. He also loved ghost stories and Cape Breton folklore. He was especially attentive when hearing about possible UFO sightings in Troy.
When diagnosed with cancer the first time he faced it with his trademark upbeat attitude, and a few comical quips. Being the type of man who would never want to cause worry, when the cancer returned, he kept the terminal diagnosis entirely to himself and relied on his unwavering faith along the way.
If it’s been a while since you’ve had a visit with him, or worked on a project together, please know that he cherished every relationship and reflected on interactions with fond memories.
In Gilbert’s farewell he’d be over the moon knowing of all the condolences and love people had for him. If he could ask one final time “was anyone asking about me?” We could tell him of the long list.
Funeral for Gil be Wednesday, April 20 at 11am at Stella Maris Parish in Creignish with Rev. Barrett Clare-Johnson officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.
Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will take place at a later date.
The family would like to thank Dr. Saliba and the nursing staff in the Oncology Clinic at Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital and Sydney Regional Hospital as well as Cancer Patient Navigator Heather Brander for their tremendous care.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Charles Gilbert Gil MacIsaac March 2 1949 April 15 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Port-Hawkesbury, Province: Nova Scotia