Obituary of Thomas MacDonald

MACDONALD, Thomas (Tom/Skipper/Grandpa Tom), Port Morien March 19th, 1930 – October 27th, 2024 It is with heavy hearts that we the family announce the peaceful passing of our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor Thomas MacDonald, 94, of Port Morien on October 27th,2024 at the Glace Bay Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Tom grew up in Rose Blanche, Newfoundland before him and his father crossed the Gulf of Saint Lawrence in an open dory. For several years they fished from Scatarie before settling in the beautiful fishing community of Port Morien where he met the love of his life, Colleen. Tom loved a great conversation and often made an effort to impart his wisdom. Whether it be fishing skills, handyman tips, just clever “Tom-isms” or knowledgeable advice. He was a champion of Port Morien, he loved his little village and often said there was no where else in this world he would rather be. As the head of the Port Morien Harbour Authority for many years, “the wharf” in Port Morien was his passion and it was his life’s mission to ensure it was sustainable for future generations to come. He was an advocate for the fishing industry and led the development of the wharf expansion now in place. He was a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and assisted many a stranded fellow fisherman in his day. He also served as a past fire chief of the Port Morien Volunteer Fire Department. In his later years, he could often be found in his favorite place “sitting on the bank “looking out over the wharf watching as the fishers came in with their catch of lobster. Tom (and Colleen) opened their heart and home to their entire family, every member of our family has lived under their roof at one time or another, sometimes multiple of us at once, but they always made it work and without any complaints. Whether you were family or a friend who dropped by for a visit, the door was always open. The teapot was steeped and there was a plate of treats on the table. Tom always had a story to tell and knowledge to impart. If you had the privilege of knowing Tom, or even a chance encounter, you knew he was a dedicated man. His wit and cheekiness were unmatched. He provided for and loved his family like no other. Left to mourn with heavy hearts are his personal angel and grandson/son who he raised from birth, Craig Thiel. Devoted daughter, Marion Maxwell (Leonard). Son and first mate, Lionel MacDonald (Mary), and son Donald MacDonald. Granddaughters - Tanya Thiel (Rob), Holly “Hefferdust” Thiel (Devin), Alisha MacDonald (Adam). Grandsons- Justin Dearn (Gail), Adam Dearn (Shantelle), Daniel MacDonald (Hillary). Great-grandchildren Drew White, Caiden Dearn, Bella Dearn, Lachlan MacDonald and Olivia Anderson as well as many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbors, and friends. Tom was predeceased by his parents Netta and Steve MacDonald, wife and love of his life Colleen, daughter Juanita Thiel, brothers Reginald (Reg) and Edward (Ted). He was also predeceased by his mother and father-in-law Tom and Viva Robinson, as well as several brothers and sisters-in-law and many life-long friends especially Cameron MacPherson. Our family would like to thank the staff at the Glace Bay Hospital (3rd floor and especially 4 North who cared for him in his final days), Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Cape Breton County Homemakers Agency, Port Morien Volunteer Fire Department-First Responders for their kindness and excellent care. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to the Cancer Patient Care Fund or a charity of one’s choice. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, at 11 a.m., with Rev. Sheldon Chant presiding in T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. 902-849-4199. Words of condolence may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. Interment to follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery, Port Morien. Fair winds and following seas Skipper. God Grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then most humbly pray; When in the Lord's safe landing net, I'm peacefully asleep, That in His mercy I be judged as good enough to keep.