
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of John Guy McDonald, at his home, on July 26, 2025, at the age of 68.
John leaves behind his loving wife, Elinor McDonald, daughter Sarah McDonald and her mother Michele Wilson, son Ashton (Hickey) McDonald and his mother, Nancy Hickey, and his sister Lynn Reed and her husband, Bill Reed. He is predeceased by his daughter Katie McDonald and parents Rita and John (Jack) McDonald. Also left to mourn are a large circle of relatives and friends, including best friend “Jake” Morris and many others too numerous to mention.
John lived life simply and was often described as a homebody. While he enjoyed family gatherings, he was in his element when they were at his house. There, he would hold court telling stories of his youth, and no matter how many times you might hear the same story, it never got old. It only got funnier. When his mother became ill, John moved her into his home and together with his wife, Elinor, they cared for her for several years until her death. He didn’t just believe that family should look out for each other, he lived it,
John didn’t chase the latest trends, (in fact, his fashion sense left a lot to be desired), he wasn’t interested in accumulating “stuff”, and he always rooted for the underdog. He lived well and with a sense of calmness that could be envied.
True to form, John slipped away from this world with no muss, no fuss. He lived life on his own terms and exited in the same fashion.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at the Carnell Memorial Chapel on Sept.13, 2025 at 12:00pm. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life from 2-5 pm, to be held at the Geraldine Rubia Centre, 41 Shaw St. St. John’s, NL A1E 2W7. Please join us to share stories and raise a glass in John’s honor.
Rest in peace John. There is a large circle of family ready to welcome you home.
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
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Sorry, but I just heard about this, Johnny Mac.
Condolences to all.
May you rest in peace, big guy,
Joe.
Elinor,
I’m so very sorry to hear that John passed away. May you find peace in the love that surrounds you and comfort in the memories you hold close to your heart. God bless.
Lynn and Family,
Sincerest condolences on John’s passing. Numerous memories particularly from our childhood. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
Jim & Lynda McDonald
To know him was to love him. One in a million to say the least. Condolences to Elinor & all the family. Never had or heard a harsh word about Johnny Mac. BBQ story is one of my favorite stories (that could be shared or repeated).
Elinor & Lynn & The McDonald & Gallagher families:
Please accept my condolence on John’s death.
Most Sincerely,
Joan (Wadden) Hann
John you will be so missed, all your stories will be missed, you were one of a kind! Rest in peace, you will always be here through memories and just looking at Ashton, he’s just like you!
Never be forgotten! My condolences to all of John’s family and friends.
Lynn and family. I am so very dopey to hear of John s passing. With deepest condolences
We are all so sorry to hear about the passing of our cousin John. Our thoughts and prayers are with our family in Newfoundland. Rest in Peace John
Sara we am so sorry for your family’s loss. Our Deepest Sympathy to you all. Fly high with the angels into God’s loving arms, and rest for ever in peace John.
will miss you old buddy! many a eve sat to your table swappen stories sippen on a wobblie pop, good times, will see ash man n mimi on friday
Elinor, I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He will be missed especially his sense of humour. Hugs to you and the family.
Lynn and Family,
So sorry to hear of John’s passing unfortunately, we are out of the province and won’t be able to make the week, but our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of John‘s family. May he rest in peace.
Sending our condolences to Elinor and family during this difficult time.
To the McDonald Family: Please accept our sincere condolences on John’s passing. May all your happy memories of all those beautiful family gatherings sustain you and give you comfort.
Thanks for all the great memories you have left us with. You will be talked about often when the family gets together. Always in our hearts dear cousin xo TIL we meet again
Oh Macarone…….You left too soon. Take care of our baby girl.. xo