It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Michael John MacIsaac, 73, of MacLellan’s Brook. Mike passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026 in the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care unit, surrounded by the love of his family.

Formally from Giant’s Lake, Guysborough County, Mike was born on September 9, 1952, the son of John Archie and Nora Theresa (Twomey, from Ireland) MacIsaac. His parents instilled many great values of kindness, faith, hard work and a sense of humour, which he carried throughout his life.

Mike married his wife Mary “Deen” on October 12, 1974, and they shared many special moments and adventures together over their 51 years of marriage. They were blessed with three children and most recently a granddaughter who always brightened Grampie’s day.

Growing up on his family farmstead, Mike loved animals and being in nature, something he later passed on to his three children. Many great memories were made together at the family camp in Giant’s Lake. Enjoying gatherings with family, cousins and friends, sharing laughter, food and music. He enjoyed many fishing and hunting trips, campfires and of course a game of crib. Mike took great pride in his Christmas tree farm which his son Andrew continues to develop, working alongside his cousin Johnathan MacIsaac.

Being an only child, Mike considered his cousins, who grew up nearby, his brothers and sister in heart as they were like siblings to him. Flora (Long), Norman, Aird, Kenneth and Angus MacIsaac. They shared many fun times together and an everlasting bond. He was also very close with his cousins Doug and Brent MacIsaac, who travelled from Detroit with their parents Hugh and Peggy, to spend summers together.

Dad loved gardening and kept a beautiful vegetable garden for many years for his family to enjoy. His buddy Freddie the toad would come back to accompany him every year. Mike spent many hours in the yard chatting with his neighbour and trusted friend, John Marshall, who lived side by side for 50 years. Mike valued his close family friendships and shared many life experiences with friends who were like family – they worked, vacationed, raised families and supported each other through it all.

Mike was a passionate sports fan especially for his Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Blue Jays. He loved cheering them on, rarely missing a game.

After graduating from St. Francis Xavier University in 1974, Michael was employed as a Social Worker with Community Services in Pictou County for 42 years. During this time, his compassionate nature had a positive impact on many lives. He was well respected in his field and developed many close and lasting friendships with co-workers over his career.

Michael was a man of great faith and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus for 50 years, in which time he made many friends, old and new. We were told he was the first to welcome a new member and always willing to lend a hand when needed.

For those who spent time with Mike, we think you would agree of feeling a calmness in his presence. Mike was a good man and enjoyed the simple things in life. Whether listening to birds and watching deer, to swimming in the lake or ocean on a warm day. Quiet, thoughtful and steadfast, always treating others with respect. He was patient, kind, caring and hard working. He was a mentor and role model. He faced his tough battle with cancer with bravery and strength. Above all, he was a great husband and father who always put his family first. We are so grateful for all he did and gave to us.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary “Deen” (Chisholm) MacIsaac; daughters, Vicki (Gibb) Thompson – Noah, Brea and Hazel; Jill (Bud) Paton; son, Andrew MacIsaac (Abbey Mullendore) – Aiden, Leni; goddaughter, Hillary Chisholm; as well as many other close family and friends.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his father-in-law, Andrew “Andy” Chisholm, mother-in-law, Geraldine “Gerry” (MacMillian) Chisholm; aunts and uncles, and best buddy, David Morse.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 30 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at H.W. Angus Funeral Home, New Glasgow. Funeral service will take place Friday, May 1 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Stellarton with Father Macdonald Ibeh officiating. A reception will follow in the parish hall (Sister Catherine Steele Centre). Burial will be held in the Giant’s Lake Cemetery at a later date.

The family would like to express our gratitude to all the doctors, nurses and staff for the care and dignity they gave Mike during his hospital stay. A special thanks to Heather Cameron for her music therapy, always there to lighten the day with a folk tune and fiddle in hand. To all Mike’s family and friends for the visits, prayers, support and kindness during this difficult time, thank you.

Donations may be made in memory of Michael to the Aberdeen Health Foundation Palliative Care Fund or Ducks Unlimited Canada.

Forever in our hearts. Rest In Peace Dear Mike.

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

“Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, too-ra-loo-ra-li, too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, that’s an Irish lullaby”