Obituary of Elwin Alphonsus MacPherson

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Elwin ‘Elvie Sam’ MacPherson of Antigonish passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026 in the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, Antigonish, surrounded by care and compassion.

Born in Antigonish, he was the son of the late Alex ‘Sam’ and Mary (Lays) MacPherson. Elwin was a skilled welder by trade and dedicated many years of hard work to Antigonish Machine Shop, Trenton Works, and Alva Construction. He took great pride in his work and in providing for his family.

Elwin will be remembered as a man who truly enjoyed life and the people in it. He had a natural gift for conversation, a quick wit, and a warm, engaging personality that drew others to him wherever he went. A storyteller, a jokester, and a charmer, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome and at ease. Whether sharing a laugh, a story, or simply a moment of connection, Elwin left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

At his core, he was a devoted family man. He was immensely proud of his sons, Leo (Heather) and Bruce (Erin), both of Antigonish, and nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life. He is lovingly remembered by his six grandchildren: Jennifer (Scott) in Calgary, Alison (Benedikt) in Copenhagen, Gemma in Halifax, Calum, Mairead, and Bree in Antigonish; as well as his three great-grandchildren, Hazel, Charlotte, and Dryden, who brought him endless pride and happiness.

He is also survived by his brothers Harvey (Anne), Jack (Patricia), and Fr. Gary, all of Antigonish; his sister Sr. Jovita, CSM, Antigonish; and his brother-in-law Dave MacKenzie (Colleen) of Addington Forks.

Elwin was predeceased by his beloved wife, Margaret (Margie) MacPherson, whom he missed dearly; infant daughters Denise and Margot; brothers Gordie, Joseph, Sam, R.J., Doug and Alex; sister Mary; and infant twin sisters Alexandria and Therese. There is comfort in knowing he is now reunited with Margie.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate caregivers at R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home and to Dr. John Chiasson for their kindness and care.

Visitation will be held from from 2–4 p.m.and 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8th in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant Street, Antigonish. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, April 9th at 11 a.m. in StFX University Chapel.  Burial will take place at a later date in St. Ninian's Parish Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to VON Antigonish.