Ernest Donald MacKay

We, the family of Ernie MacKay, are deeply saddened to announce his passing on March 25, 2024 surrounded by family. Ernest Donald MacKay was born on December 6, 1939, and was raised in New Waterford. He was a proud Cape Bretoner. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy at the age of 16 years and served his country for many years. Ernie was a devoted husband to his wife, Marina, for 31 years. He is survived and cherished by his daughter, Linda, and son, Steve. He was an extraordinary stepdad to Corry (John), Dione (Rob) and Jaime (Neil). He was a kind and loving Grand-pa to Tara (Paul), Michael (Lena), Alexandra, Jared, Elle, Sam, Max, Nate, Mackenzie, and Baileigh and great-grandfather to sweet Oliver. He had many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins spanning from Nova Scotia to British Columbia. He was predeceased by his father George MacKay and his mother Margaret (Burns); his sister, Peggy; his brother Dave, as well as his brother George “Red” MacKay and sister-in-law, Janet. As the baby of the family, he had so many good memories with his siblings including his last epic trip to visit his brother Red, in BC. He lost a daughter, Margaret Ann, in infancy. His beloved son, Little Ernie “David” MacKay passed away on Aug 3, 1992. In that same year, “Tears in Heaven” was released and when he heard it, he would talk of reuniting with his son. Ernie was predeceased by his brother-in-laws, Glenn Milley, and Joey Milley, who he could always depend on for a good catch of fish. His loving sister-in-law Joanne passed earlier this year. His mother-in-law, Mary Ellen Milley, adored him and would slip him some sweets when Marina wasn’t looking. His sisters/brothers-in-law held him in high regard. He was fortunate to have Catherine MacKay, Ron Beaton, Linda & Ron McKinnon, Florence Milley & Isabelle MacDonald, Jeanette Milley, Laurie Milley & Dave Thomson, Freddie & Mary Milley, Steve & Tina Milley, Weldon & Bev Milley, and Darlene Milley, in his life. He was with Ford Motor Company for over 30 years, working first in Bramalea, ON then Edmonton, AB, where he retired. Prior to working in the automotive industry, he worked in a variety of jobs, from coal-mining at #12 Colliery to driving a bread-truck. Ernie was a passionate Union supporter and served as a local CAW President for many years. Through the years, he volunteered for many service organizations like the Lion’s Club and was an avid fundraiser for his son, Steve’s hockey team, the Bramalea Blues. After retirement, he volunteered for the NDP in Cape Breton and when he moved to Halifax he worked at the Dockyards for the Corps of Commissionaires and supported Veterans as a Service Officer at the Royal Canadian Legion. He believed in Al-Anon and earned his substance and alcohol abuse counselling certification through the University of Alberta. He used his knowledge and life experience to help many colleagues and others through tough times. He was a true gentleman, with a soft heart - he didn’t hesitate to share a laugh or a good cry with anyone. He will be most remembered for his quiet wisdom, and most of all his dedication to his wife, Marina, and his children. His biggest joy was to see his children, grandchildren and great-grandson happy. He took every chance he had to praise and give love, and left nothing unsaid. We will be forever grateful for him even if we wanted him around for even longer. His spirit and love will always surround us. A Celebration of Life will be held for Ernie at the Royal Canadian Legion, Vimy Branch 27 on Saturday, April 30, 5-7pm. “Beyond the door There's peace, I'm sure And I know there'll be no more Tears in heaven”

Ernest Donald MacKay

December 6, 1939 - March 25, 2024