Mary Patricia (Pat) Edstrom McDonald

September 1, 1929 – April 9, 2026

Pat McDonald, aged 96, passed away peacefully in the An Cala Unit of the Regional Hospital on April 9, 2026, on what would have been her 73rd wedding anniversary. Born in Birch Grove, she was the daughter of Leah (Hayes) and Jimmy Edstrom.

Pat graduated from St. Joseph’s nursing program in 1950 and remained, in many capacities, a nurse for her whole life. Shortly after graduation, she taught nursing students in New Waterford. She worked in Kentville, then returned to St. Joseph's and applied her skills in many areas, notably obstetrics, before retiring from the Community Hospital pharmacy in 1986. She also took great joy in her work with the VON. She was the first point of medical contact in our family and often in the community of Port Morien, where she treated her "patients" in their homes or at her kitchen table.

Pat married Hughie McDonald on April 9,1953 and together they built a beautiful, full life. They valued the joy of family above all else and were consummate hosts. Holidays and special gatherings were held at their home, creating lasting memories and fostering a closeness that has carried her family through all of life’s moments. Both she and Hughie passed along a sharp sense of humour to the generations that came after them.

Grandma emanated class and kindness. This was exemplified by the heartfelt notes she would send out, always reaching their recipient in perfect timing. She was known for her sharp fashion sense and immaculate yard. She loved taking photos, capturing her world travels and so many of the memories she worked to create. She was a faithful member of the congregation at St. Mary's Parish, Port Morien.

Pat is survived by her sons Ken (Nancy) MacDonald, Paul (Val) MacDonald, Keith (Sue) McDonald and her grandchildren Katherine (Dennis) Snow, Dennis (Amanda) MacDonald, Leah (Edward) Helfmann, Glen (Andrea) MacDonald, Frances MacArthur, Andrew MacDonald, Kate MacDonald and Gillian (Michael) MacDonald. She will be dearly missed by her great grandchildren Bethany, Ben, Nora, Allie, Colson and Claire. She is also survived by her sisters Elaine MacKenzie, Beverly Betts and Judy (Kenzie) Wadden, brothers in law Kevin McDonald and Dave Jelusich, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who were close to her on both the McDonald and Edstrom sides of the family.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Hughie, sister Kaye Hopkins, special niece and nephews Terri Lee Kelloway, David Wadden and David Nearing, as well as several in laws on both sides of the family.

A special thank you to Tom Donovan and the staff at Carefield Manor for the exemplary care provided over the past two years. Heartfelt gratitude is extended to Dr. John Rogers (Monica) for his guidance and support, MaryLou Mauger and Calvin 'T' Thomas for being wonderful neighbours and goddaughter and niece Lynn Cuzner for the warmth and comfort she provided, especially during Grandma’s last nights.

As per Pat’s wishes cremation has taken place under the care and compassion of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. (902-849-4199.). A private service and burial will take place at a later date.