Obituary of Rod MacDonald

John Roderick “Rod” MacDonald

Glace Bay/East Bay

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of an amazing husband, Dad, “Grampie”, uncle and special friend to so many. John Roderick ‘Rod’ MacDonald passed away peacefully at Cape Breton Regional Hospital, on September 10, 2019 in the arms of his high school sweetheart and wife of 43 years Trudy (Burrows) MacDonald. Rod was man of very strong faith, and his  daily life reflected that faith in his tireless devotion to others. Whether Rod knew a person for 60 minutes or 60 years, his willingness to assist anyone and everyone seemed endless. While born in Glace Bay, Rod cherished every moment of his time with family and friends at McGillvary Lane in Northside East Bay. For many of  the younger nieces, nephews and visiting friends, many  now adults,  time spent with Rod at “the cottage” was simply magical.

Rod freely gave of his service to a wide variety of organizations, including: Race the Cape, Junior Achievement of Cape Breton, Glace Bay Minor Hockey, Vince Ryan Hockey Tournament, to mention a few. A life-long learner, Rod attended Xavier Junior College and completed his Bachelor of Business Administration from ST.FXU. Rod  also received a diploma in Adult Education from St. FXU and attended numerous courses related to the environment and outdoor survival. Rod enjoyed promoting boating safety and so many people benefited from his pragmatic  teachings style.

Rod enjoyed a varied and interesting 28 year working career with the Cape Breton Development Corporation, working initially in the Coal Laboratory and then Inventory Control. Rod most enjoyed his time working in the International Marketing and Coal Export field where developed lifelong relationships with numerous business associates.

Rod is survived by his loving  wife Trudy and his best friend and son Kyle( Brandi). Rod cherished his time with his beautiful grandchild Finn and Beau who described their grandfather  as “the best Grampie in the whole world”. Rod is also survived by his sisters Mary McDonald and Reynelda and brother Michael (Sharon). Rod will be dearly missed by his extended family as well.

Rod was predeceased by his parents Roderick and Bernetta (Walker) MacDonald; sisters Colleen MacDonnell, Marion Froebrick; brother Myles;  brother-in-law Doug McDonald and nephews Sean Buck and Neil Brennan MacEachern

Rod also became a known as “Dad” to a number of international students who continue to display their love and respect.

The family would like to express special thanks  to Rod’s friends at Sydco/Scotia fuels for their kindness and support.

The family would like to express their thanks to doctors of and nursing staff at CBRH 4A and  the An Cala Unit. Cremation has taken place.

There will be no visitation, a funeral mass will be held on Friday, September 13, 2019 at 2pm at Holy Cross Church. Seaview St., Glace Bay with Father Norman MacPhee presiding. Interment at a later date. There will be an opportunity to meet Rod’s family at a reception downstairs following the mass.

Donation maybe be made to Cape Breton Palliative Care.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com