It is with devastation that we announce the passing of Owen "Keith" McGuinness on November 23rd, 2025.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1950 to Patrick and Amy (nee Martin) McGuinness, Keith and his family immigrated to Canada when he was seven years old. During the voyage he was marched to his mother by a crew member after hitting all the shuffleboard discs off the deck into the Atlantic ocean - a stunt that came as absolutely no surprise to anyone slightly acquainted with him.

The family settled in Amherst, Nova Scotia. Keith and his siblings - older brother Paul, younger sister Collette (both surviving), and youngest sister Stephanie (deceased) grew up exploring the Tantramar Marshes, caring for pet crows, dogs, and chickens, and playing the occasional prank on their unsuspecting mother. Keith joined the North Nova Scotia Highlanders Militia as a teen before the family relocated to Charlottetown, PEI.

Teaching himself art at a young age, Keith carried his passion for painting and sculpture throughout his life. Many of his works have been featured in shows and galleries across Nova Scotia. Studying art at Holland College, he was known as a wild child until he met Anne (nee Cox, deceased), who wrangled him in (slightly) and they later married. Anne gave birth to their only daughter, Kathlene McGuinness (surviving), in 1982, whom he affectionately called "Pook." They shared creative passions and a love of working with their hands. Though Anne and Keith's marriage ended, they remained lifelong friends and confidantes.

Never one to settle into a routine for too long, Keith had various careers in Truck Driving, Graphic Design, Art, Painting, and Construction. His favoured beer was Ten Penny, not because he loved it, but because no one else liked it - he could leave it in the fridge at parties without fear of any disappearing.

In 2000, Keith found great love again with Deborah Ghaney of Wolfville, Nova Scotia. In their home on the quiet shores of Tupper Lake, Keith found what he had always been seeking - peace in Deborah's presence and the space to pursue his art. They lived there together for 25 years, until his passing.

Keith did not live life gently - he lived it with passion, humour, and presence. He was a storyteller, an artist, a man of action. He was a fiercely loyal brother, a steadfast friend, a deeply loving father, and a beautiful partner. His absence leaves deep cracks in so many hearts.

A gathering celebrating Keith's life will be held in the warmer months of Summer 2026 - details to follow.