Obituary of Laverne "Mac" Robert MacDonald

Laverne Robert “Mac” MacDonald, 85, of Bedford, Nova Scotia, passed away on October 7, 2024, at home, as were his wishes. One of six children, he was born on August 3, 1939, in Millville, Nova Scotia, to the late Michael J. MacDonald and Bertha Mae Joudrey. Preferring to go by the nickname “Mac,” he left Kentville after joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in the communications trade. During his 11 years of service, he was posted to St. Hubert, QC, Whitehorse, YT, and finally, Halifax, NS. He later continued his trade as a civil servant, retiring in 1993 after a 38-year career. It was in Halifax, NS, where he met a young nursing student, Karen Kennedy. The two were later married, settled in the Halifax area, and raised three children. Retirement was a time for Mac to enjoy watching his five grandchildren—Ryan and Kennedy Huestis, Cameron and Ben MacDonald, and Abby MacDonald—grow, including many hours spent watching hockey, taekwondo, and dance. He also enjoyed summer fishing in Yellowknife, selling antiques, sharing time with friends, and even making new ones, with his morning Sunnyside Mall coffee club. Mac is survived by his three children, Donna Huestis (Jeff), Bruce MacDonald (Angela) and Janice MacDonald (Ken); brothers, Michael, and John; as well as many beloved family members and friends. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 54 years, Karen; sister, Louis Hockley; and brothers, Vincent, and Alan. This past year, as our father’s health declined, we were greatly supported by his caregivers, friends, and extended family. Our gratitude also goes to DVA and VON for their care and support. Cremation has taken place under the care of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists. We will hold a Celebration of Life, on November 28 from 1-3pm at Oakfield Golf and Country Club, Enfield, NS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mac’s memory to Bide Awhile Animal Shelter, where he adopted his fur baby, Wilma.