Obituary of Joseph Alexander MacDonald

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With  great sadness we announce the passing of Joseph Alexander (Joe Peter) MacDonald, 94, of St. Andrews, Antigonish County on January 9, 2026.

Dad was the second eldest son of the late Peter J. (Peter Dan) and Annabelle (MacGillivray) MacDonald of St. Andrews.

Born in St. Andrews on September 3, 1931, Dad lived a life ingrained with kindness, humility, and devotion to those he loved.  

Just prior to completing engineering studies at StFX University, Dad had a change of heart and decided he would take over the family farm. In September of 1953 he married the love of his life, Margaret Fraser, and together they raised their seven children in the 'white house on the hill', that he and his father had built.  Dad also worked in construction and at Scott & Stewart Forestry.

Dad was a caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.  His greatest joy came from being surrounded by family.  He loved visits from his children and grandchildren.

Possessing a mischievous sense of humour and quick wit, and with a disarming twinkle in his eye, he lulled many cribbage opponents into defeat, even during the last few weeks of his life.  A 'quick' game frequently became a marathon.  If he lost a game there was always an immediate invitation for 'one' more.  A decision from his opponent to stop on a winning note, drew a comment of  'chicken' (or a version thereof).

Dad enjoyed watching sports and cheered for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays.  In his earlier years loved to dance with Mom.  After retirement, they enjoyed several trips throughout Canada and to Scotland.

Joe is survived by his children Brian (Helen), Carol Ann (Terry), Donna, Ritchie (Christine), son-in-law Darryl Murrant, Shirley (Marty) and David (Lisa).  He is also survived by his grandchildren Jennifer, Christopher, Victoria, David, Tommy, Jimmy, Maria, Rachel, Chelsea, Colleen, Laura, Colin, Finn, Isabelle, Lyla and Lexi and his  great-grandchildren Zoey, Ada, Joel, Serena, Laughlin, Kaitlyn, Ruby and Sid.  He is also survived by his brother Blaise (Basil) and his sister Remegius Hasick, as well as several nieces and nephews.  We will miss him.

Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret, brother Leo, cherished daughter Darlene and son-in-law George Keys.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Dad’s life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11am in St. Andrew's Church, St. Andrews.

Our family would like to extend our appreciation to the doctor and staff at Oceanview Continuing Care Centre and Dr. Cudmore and staff at Parkland (Antigonish).

Donations in memory of Joe may be made to the Antigonish Community Food Bank or St. Andrew's Parish Cemetery Fund.