James John MacDonald
October 6, 1943 to July 17, 2025
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Jim (JJ) MacDonald. Jim (Grandpa) enjoyed a precious visit with family in Cape Breton at the time of his passing on 17 July, 2025, at the age of 81. His fearless, mischievous, humorous and adventurous character and his talent for crafty story telling will be missed by many. He was known widely, as he would often encounter some of his many acquaintances, no matter how far he travelled. Though retired from service on the Ferry’s of Marine Atlantic, JJ remained a true sailor at heart. Without a doubt, many of Jim’s family and friends will remember him with his apron on, at the stove, cooking up a delicious meal or baking a tasty treat. It was his passion!
Jim will be missed dearly by his wife, Marion (nee Trelegan), and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his siblings, extended family and friends.
In accordance with Jim’s wishes, the family has had a private cremation and will have a celebration of life at a later date, while listening to his favourite tunes from The Moody Blues.
As many are aware, Jim’s family includes many military veterans. Therefore, any who wish may donate to the Wounded Warriors Canada in memory of Jim (https://woundedwarriors.ca/).
…extending heartfelt condolences to all the family
Marion, my heartfelt condolences to you on Jim’s passing. He was a lovely person and so good to myself and Brian on many a Gulf crossing. May the memories that you shared bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Brian and Norma Bulger
Marion and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear the news of Jim’s passing.
My Thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
In the days ahead as you reflect back on all your happy memories together, it will help comfort you.
Jim will remain in your heart forever.
RIP Jim
Marion & Family:
Bill and I were very shocked and saddened to hear of Jim’s passing;. Our sincere condolences, and please call upon us if we can help in any way during this difficult time. We affectionately called Jim , the ‘Mayor’ of our Condo Community, as he was always there for us. A wonderful friend and neighbour for the past 20 years or more . We shall miss him greatly.
Marion’ & family. I was truly sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a lovely man and always waited patiently for Marion wherever she had to go take care of things. Jim was the best shortbread cookie maker (yummy). Marion & family, you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God Bless, Karen (Murphy) Mallard.
Marion & family
Tom & I were deeply shocked & saddened when we learned of Jim’s sudden death last week. We were chatting with him only 2 days before he left for Cape Breton. We’ve enjoyed being your neighbors for the past 25 years.&, although we didn’t see you on a daily basis we knew we’d be there for each other should the occasion arise. Our sincere condolences to you, Sherri; her family& all of Jim’s Cape Breton family..
Marion I have no words to say that could truely tell you how we feel about Jims passing.
Glad we got together the Friday before he went on his much anticipated visit with his family in Nova Scotia. The laughing and joking was always so much fun.
Remember i am always here for you my dear friend.
Jim my friend from England who only liked real butter you will definitely be missed.
Rest In Peace.
Tom & Jackie
Marion,
I am saddened to read of Jim’s passing. I remember clearly what a great cook Jim was and his story telling.
May his gentle soul rest in peace
Dorothy Pound Rideout
Marion and family,
So deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. My condolences to you and all your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My sincerest condolences are sent out to Mr. MacDonald’s family. I had the pleasure of knowing Mr. MacDonald when I worked at Terra Nova Motors many years ago. He would share stories with me about his time on the Marine Atlantic ferry, about his children and he even shared his recipe for his delicious shortbread cookies, which I make every Christmas and think fondly of him as I make them. I hope he is resting comfortably in peace.