Obituary of Gerard MacNeil

Alister Gerard MacNeil, 84, of St. Andrews, passed away in St. Martha's Regional Hospital on Monday, February 12, 2024. Born in Florence, Cape Breton on July 24, 1939, he was the youngest child of the late Daniel Martin and Catherine (King) MacNeil. 

Gerard was preceded in death by sisters: Catherine, Viola, Anita, Eleanor, Greta, Carmelita, and brothers John, Chester, and Claude.  

Gerard is survived by his wife of 60 years, Catherine (MacPherson); son, Jack (Michelle) Antigonish; grandchildren Ian, Perth, AUS; Rachelle (Marcus) Antigonish; and Cameron, Antigonish;  great-grandchildren Maisy and Maddox; and 4 legged companion, Zipper.  

You probably knew Gerard as a whistler who could sometimes be heard before he was seen. He was very active in the community as a founding member of the St. Andrews and District Volunteer Fire Department; member of St. Andrews Parish Council;  Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers; Strait Area Ground Search and Rescue; Nova Scotia EMO; and he was a 4th Degree Grand Knight for St. Ninian's Council and district navigator with the Knights of Columbus.

You also might have known Gerard as a crosswalk guard for the past 12 years after he retired from the Municipality of County of Antigonish. Gerard was often seen in the scale house, driving a plow, or truck for the county. He also drove a feed truck, propane truck and could drive just about anything. Gerard enjoyed a good game of crib or watching old westerns with Zipper by his side.

Sincerest thanks to the staff at St. Martha’s, who have given Gerard and his family incredible support and care, with special thanks to the palliative care team, the oncology unit, and especially Amelia Tate and Dr. Maureen Allen.

There will be no visitation. Funeral mass will take place at 11am Friday, February 16th in St. Andrews Church, St. Andrews, with Father Charles Cameron presiding. Reception to follow at the St. Andrews Community Centre. Burial in the South River Cemetery at a later date. 

Family flowers only. Donations may be made in Gerard's name to the oncology or palliative units, care of St. Martha's Regional Hospital Foundation.