Obituary of Captain Murray MacDonald

MacDonald, Murray James (Jim), Capt (Rtd) CD, died suddenly at home on March 22, 2014 at the age of 78 after 9 challenging months dealing with cancer therapies and their effects. He leaves behind to grieve his absence, his wife of 56 years, Irma MacDonald (Dartmouth), children, Sharon Wall (Ernie) Dartmouth, Catherine MacDonald (Dennis Myers) Eastern Passage, Patricia Bell (Stephen) Eastern Passage, Shelley Robinson (Robert) Eastern Passage, Kevin MacDonald (Amanda Priest) Belmont, NS, along with 8 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and his adopted overseas grandchildren and their families. He is also survived by his brother Ronald MacDonald (Gayle) Hantsport and sister Betty Marsters (Morris) Hantsport, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his parents Annie & Murray MacDonald of Three Mile Plains. Born in Windsor, NS, he joined the Air Force at age 17, and spent 36 years as an Air Traffic Controller in various postings around the country. On his retirement, he and Irma returned to his roots, building a house in Martock, creating an ever expanding garden and becoming an active volunteer as a driver for Dial-A-Ride. He was also a regular presence at the Hants County Exhibition. He enjoyed the snowbird lifestyle and was actively involved in the life and work of Melody Gardens in Florida where he was a long time board member and served as President until his recent resignation. Upon their move to Dartmouth, he became involved with the St, John’s Ambulance Pet Therapy Program visiting Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building and Oceanview Manor with Patricia’s dog, Chester. He was a life-long member of Windsor United Church (613 King Street Windsor, NS) where visitation will take place on Thursday, March 27th, from 5-8. A service to celebrate his life will be held at Windsor United Church on Friday, March 28th at 2 pm, Rev. Bill Gibson presiding assisted by Rev. Catherine MacDonald. There will be a reception following the service and interment at a later date. Family flowers only, donations in his memory can be made to Windsor United Church. Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.serenitylindsayfuneralhome.ca.