January 20, 1947 – May 2, 2025

Donna McInnis Manuel was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on a bright winter’s day January 20, 1947. Her journey came to a peaceful close on May 2nd, 2025 at Glen Haven Manor, New Glasgow NS, where the staff provided exceptional and loving care beyond measure. As the daughter of a naval officer and his spirited Scottish bride, she spent her childhood on both coasts of Canada, sharing many adventures with her two brothers. Time spent in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, especially learning to sail on the Bay of Fundy with Don Wheaton, left a lasting impression and sparked a lifelong love of the water.

Donna was a proud graduate of Mount Saint Vincent and Dalhousie Universities. She began her career as a teacher in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, and after marrying David George Manuel, she moved to Pictou to begin a new chapter, raising their two daughters. After David’s unexpected passing, Donna returned to the school system as an administrative assistant to be close to her girls. She later became a school business manager, a role she embraced with dedication and care.

Sailing remained a constant in Donna’s life. She was an enthusiastic and competitive racer, always seeking the edge or chasing better wind. Even when she was once disqualified from a race due to a protest lodged by a fellow sailor, she found the perfect response—she married him. Donna and Peter Melnick were married for 42 and a half years and shared a rich life filled with adventure, laughter, and, of course, sailing. Together with the girls, they explored the Bras d’Or Lakes, Pictou Harbour, and countless waters in between.

In retirement, Donna and Peter continued their adventures, spending time in Maine, New York, Georgia, and Florida. Along the way, Donna discovered and nurtured a passion for basket weaving. From Florida to New Glasgow, she enjoyed creating, teaching, and connecting with fellow weavers who became cherished friends.

Donna, beloved wife of John Peter Melnick and of the late Dr. David Manuel and proud mother to Leslie and Lindsay (Dennis MacDonald). She was the daughter of the late but delightful pair BL and Dolina McInnis and sister to Dale (Kathy) and Calvin (Barb) and sister-in-law Sherry Norton (Clarke) and late sisters-in law Barb McInnis and Linda Cruikshank (Bruce) - she loved them all like sisters. She was fortunate to have lots of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends that felt like family - The family loved (and tolerated) each other and was full of laughter.

A thoughtful observer of life, Donna has a remarkable ability to understand people’s motivations. She valued genuine connections, choosing to surround herself with those who acted with kindness and integrity, treating everyone with equal respect and appreciating positive energy.

Donna’s warmth, resilience, and adventurous spirit left a mark on everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many communities she touched.

Please join us to celebrate Donna and all of her favourite things: ice cream, chocolates and fudge at Angus Funeral Home, 256 King Street, New Glasgow. Visitation 2-4pm Saturday May 10, 2025. Starting with words of memory followed by an ice cream social. Attire is casual and joyful.