The daughters and of Bernie MacDougall and their families are saddened to share the news of his passing.  He was prepared to leave us and while seated in his rocking chair wrote his own obituary as follows.

The death of “Bernie” Bernard Ralph MacDougall occurred on Monday May 18, 2026, at the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow, N.S.  Born in Halifax on August 15, 1943, to Angus A. MacDougall of Mount Young Inverness Co. and Bridget A. Rankin of Mabou, N.S., he was the third of ten children.  He was predeceased by Ron, Kathleen, Lorne, Leo and Alex.  He is survived by siblings Mike, Liz, Doug, Raymond and their families.

Born into a family with deep roots in Scottish and Cape Breton culture, Bernie was true to his roots and played guitar and fiddle with many Celtic musicians over the years.  The guitar was his favorite.

He was connected to many friends through his many hobbies and interests.   Music, sports and volunteering enriched his life.

Bernie will be remembered for his dedication to coaching, mentoring and community spirit.  He loved being in the company of neighbors and his garden which he generously shared with many in his spirit of helping others.

A graduate of Saint Mary’s University, he received a Master’s Degree in Social Work.  His career and specialty in mental health took him into many hospitals within N.S.

He thanks his children Laura and Elana for providing support over his recent illnesses as well as their mother, Cecilia who helped make the burden easier to bear.  A special word of thank you to the staff of Aberdeen Hospital and the dialysis team at Sutherland Harris Memorial.

An informal celebration of family and friends will be held in Inverness Cape Breton on August 1st, from 2:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at 43 Lower Railway Street, Inverness.