Obituary of Russell MacDonald

MacDonald, John Russell Age 97, of Black Point, Pictou County/ Dartmouth passed away June 29, 2017 in Dartmouth. Born October 12, 1919 in Plymouth Park, he was the son of the late Jean (MacPherson) and Daniel William MacDonald. Russell received his education in Pictou County (valedictorian of his graduating class) before starting a long and varied career with Maritime Tel & Tel Co Ltd for nearly fifty years. His time at MT&T was interrupted when he served in the RCAF in WWII. Dad was an avid athlete, sports fan and fitness buff all his life. He enjoyed his Good Life Fitness life membership almost daily, even as recently as a month ago. He was past president of Acadia Chapter #49 Telephone Pioneers & Past Master, recent recipient of his 70 year jewel at Keith Lodge No. 23. He was an elder at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, New Glasgow, attended St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Dartmouth while faithful to Little Harbour Presbyterian Church during his summer months. He was a member of Clan Donald Nova Scotia . After retirement he became a dedicated golfer - a real student of the game! Travel to Scotland and winters in Mexico (25 of them with his son and daughter in law) were adventures he and Betty thoroughly enjoyed together. He was probably happiest when his family was with him, especially along the shores of Black Point. Sixty-five years of swimming in the waters of the Northumberland Strait, puttering around the cottage, woodworking, furniture building, creating an extraordinary garden and chatting with friends on his daily meanders were all things important to him. Russell married Bertha (Betty) G MacDougall August 12, 1949. They shared a life of love, devotion and dedication to each other. Together they raised four children, William Douglas (Rosy) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Louise Muriel (Ray) Black Point; James Grant (Glenda) Dartmouth; Amy Ruth Cranbrook B.C. He is also survived by five grandsons Roger (Katherine); Adam (Johanna); Daniel (Kayla); Michael and Angus and great grandson Oliver. Papa engaged in lively discussions and shared many stories with his cherished grandsons. Besides his parents he was predeceased by sister Elizabeth (late Henry Heighton); brother Robert W. (late Nellie Joe C); sister Elda Jean in infancy. The family will receive visitors from 2-4 &7-9 P.M. on Sunday , July 2 in the H.C.MacQuarrie Funeral Chapel ,18 Acadia Ave. Stellarton. Funeral service will be held on Monday July 3 at 2 P.M. from the First Presbyterian Church , Stellarton with Rev. Charles McPherson and Rev. Dr. P.A.(Sandy) McDonald officiating. A reception will follow the service in the church hall. Burial will be in the Bridgeville Cemetery. If desired donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Russell’s family would like to thank his family doctor, Dr. W. Busahmen, as well as Dr. D. Weatherbee and the excellent staff at the Dartmouth General Hospital for the outstanding care and support he received. Dad was a principled, strong and honest man who loved his family above all else – he will be missed. Online condolences may be sent to angusfuneral@ns.sympatico.ca