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Obituary of Gary Lewis MacDonald
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It is with broken hearts, we announce the passing of Gary Lewis MacDonald (71), of Port Hawkesbury, NS. He was the proud son of Ruth and the late Lewis MacDonald. Growing up in Mulgrave, Gary had countless adventures full of mischief and fun with his 8 siblings and many friends.
Gary had a zest for life, finding his greatest joy in his family. He married the love of his life and best friend, Linda (MacInnis) and together they spent 47 wonderful years building a life centered around love, laughter, and family. A devoted father to Tara (Justin) and Brent, Gary was
unwavering in his support, always present in every way that mattered. He embraced fatherhood with warmth and playfulness, never hesitating to get down on the floor to play Barbies or Wrestlers, or to dive into the lake for a swim with the kids. Gary treasured watching hockey games with Brent. They would take turns commentating every play and yelling at the television when things weren’t going well. With Tara, Gary instilled his love of travel. They would spend hours talking about their favourite places to explore and where to go next. Whether it was celebrating milestones, offering a late night ride home from a party or the airport, or simply sharing a heartfelt hug and an ‘I love you’, Gary was always there with a proud smile. His love for his family was fierce and unconditional, and his presence was a constant source of strength and happiness.
Gary loved being a Grampy to Hannah, Benjamin, and Logan. They were his pride and joy. From the moment Hannah was born, he would light up whenever she came into a room. Gary and Hannah had a special bond that cannot be put into words. She was his “Booker” and they were inseparable, even getting matching tattoos. When Benjamin and Logan arrived, they kept Gary on his toes. They could be found climbing trees, swimming in the pool, but mostly sitting in Gary’s lap where he would share funny stories of his childhood. Gary also had a special place
for Stanley, his beloved dog that never left his side.
Gary lived and breathed sports. He dedicated countless hours cheering on Tara and Hannah on the volleyball court and Brent on the ice, attending every sporting event he could. If a game was on TV, especially the Boston Bruins, you could bet he was watching. For over 40 years, Gary was a devoted volunteer for the Strait Pirates Junior B hockey club. His passion for the team was undeniable, and he was known to get “into the game” on more than one occasion. In earlier years, he took numerous trips with his American friends, to experience the NCAA Frozen Four tournaments. He reminisced about those memories for years to come. One of the greatest highlights of Gary’s life was volunteering as a VCC Operator at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games. Spending two unforgettable weeks in Vancouver, he assisted with skiing events
and had the opportunity to witness many others. It was truly a dream come true for him.
Gary worked for Atlantic Lottery Corporation for over 20 years. He traveled throughout Eastern Nova Scotia in sales and loved talking and getting to know each of his customers. After retirement, Gary started working at one of his favourite places; the rink at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center. There he became friends with many of his coworkers, with lots of laughs being shared. He was also a proud member and past president of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA).
Gary will also be deeply missed by his loving brothers, Lloyd, David, Glenn (Marlene), Phillip (Deborah), and Bobby (Angela), his dear sisters, Debbie and Alice, his mother and brother in law Annie and Larry MacInnis, as well as his 17 nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by his
many friends, including Daniel Demone and Joe Praught. Gary was predeceased by his father, Louie, his sister, Dawna, his brother in law, Chris Chamberlain, his nephew, Luke, and his father in law, Eddie MacInnis.
Honoring Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 22nd, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM in Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury. A private burial will take place at a later date. If you are inclined to make a donation, please consider The Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Inverness County Home Support for their kindness, humour and friendship. You enriched Gary’s life and it will not be forgotten. To the Strait Richmond Palliative Care team and Dr. Pluta, thank you for the compassion you’ve shown to Gary and his family.
Go Pirates Go!
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1953 2025
Dennis Haverstocks funeral homes
Death notice for the town of: Port-Hawkesbury, Province: Nova Scotia
death notice Gary
Lewis
MacDonald 1953 2025
obituaries notice Gary
Lewis
MacDonald 1953 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Gary
Lewis
MacDonald 1953 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
