Obituary of Donald Chisholm MacDonald

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Donald Chisholm MacDonald (Donnie "Elm Gardens") who passed away peacefully on Monday, October 24, 2016 in the RK MacDonald Guest Home after a long and wonderful life. He was born to Allan "The Plasterer" and Catherine (MacIntosh) MacDonald in South River Station, Antigonish on April 26, 1929. He was the last surviving member of his family. In 1949, Donald founded Elm Gardens Nursery located in a greenhouse in East End Antigonish, where he met the love of his life, Mary "Shebby". They were married for nearly 60 years. Together with his wife, he grew a home-based enterprise into multiple businesses; Elm Garden Flowers and Shebby’s Gifts, Antigonish Mall and Don’s Flowers, Port Hawkesbury. He led these businesses until his retirement in 1988. He was well known and respected amongst the community of florists across Nova Scotia and served on the boards for the Atlantic Canadian Associations of Florist Transworld Delivery and Flowers Canada. Don had a dry wit and was famous for his gentle humor and "one-liners". He enjoyed many different sports and outdoor activities, especially skating on the long blades, and he was an accomplished pairs skater. Outdoor skating was a passion, and "The Trossachs" at Loch Katrine was a special place to enjoy get-togethers with long-time friends. Don also loved to spend time with his family and friends at the summer cottage in Arisaig, especially playing horseshoes and keeping the place "ship shape". He travelled extensively throughout his life with family and friends and trips to Scotland and Croatia were favorites. Don was a proud and unwavering supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and provided them with quiet and steady guidance. Don was an advocate for the local community and was quick to volunteer and contribute support to local organizations. He was a fundraiser for the construction of the Antigonish Arena and an early supporter of the Keppoch Ski Hill. Don served on the board of the Bergengren Credit Union and was a member of the Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his wife Mary (Shelleby) and children Leo (Paula), Antigonish; Clarence (Debbie), Calgary, AB; Donna Petersen (Paul), Oliver, BC; and Cathy Wallace (Bernie), Antigonish and 10 grandchildren. He was predeceased by an infant son, David and siblings, Alexander, Frank, Kay, Reverend Tony (OMI), Br. John (OMI), Reverend Clarence, and Sister Christine (CSM). Visitation will take place Thursday, October 27th in MacIsaac Funeral Home, Antigonish from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Liturgy of Christian Burial will take place in St. Ninian’s Cathedral, Antigonish on Friday, October 28th at 11a.m.; Rev. Donald MacGillivray presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. The family would like to thank all of Don’s caregivers, especially the CCA’s, LPN’s and RN’s from the alzheimer’s unit, and all the staff at the RK MacDonald Guest Home. We would also like to thank Dr. David Cudmore for the care and council he provided over many years. Donations may be made to the RK MacDonald Foundation or the charity of your choice. www.MacIsaacs.ca