Obituary of John Edgar MacNeil

John Edgar “Jack” MacNeil

It is with great sadness that the family of John Edgar “Jack” MacNeil, 79, of Bridgetown, announces his death on Saturday March 10, 2018, at Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, Middleton. Born in Middleton, he was the son of the late John and Florence (Power) MacNeil.

Jack was employed by United Elastic for many years. He then worked at the Nova Scotia Housing Authority, where he especially enjoyed the social aspects of his duties until his retirement in 2003. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #33 Bridgetown and a veteran of the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department.

Jack was an avid hunter and fisherman, spending many wonderful hours at Paradise Lake and on the hardwood hills.

A lover of sports, he was a member of the Bridgetown Curling Club & the Bridgetown Lawn Bowling Club and Quoits Club.  His real passion was for lawn bowling and over the years he won numerous Provincial, Atlantic and National medals of all colors. In 1969 he participated in the Canada Games, winning a silver medal.  He was a member of a fours team that was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame in 1982 and in 2011 into the Bridgetown Sports Hall of Fame. Jack also played hockey, ball and golf in younger years.

Jack loved his family and was a wonderful grandfather and great grandfather. He was lovingly known as “Grampie Jack” and never missed a swimming lesson, hockey game, concert, 4H event or graduation. He will be remembered for his witty remarks, sense of humour, and warm hugs.

Jack is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sophie Anne (Connell), daughters: Anne Marie (Scott) Banks of Beaconsfield, Melissa (David) MacNeil of Bridgewater, Carol (Rob) Faircloth of Carthage, N.C.; grandchildren: Annika (John) Lilly, Devann (Scott) Whynot, Liam Banks (Ashley Spencer), Moira MacNeil (David Walker), Cynryc Faircloth, Nigel MacNeil; great grand-daughters: Kierstyn and Zaida Lilly, Phoebe and Blake Banks; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Jack was predeceased by his sister Ruth Benjamin and brother James “Jimmy” MacNeill.

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff, especially the nurses, at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital for their compassion and support, not only for Jack but for all of his family. We would also like to thank the homecare staff of the Victorian Order of Nurses, neighbours and friends for their kindness and companionship.  Also, thank you to Drs. Paul McGuire and Grant Goodine for their on-going care.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday March 24, 2018 in the Bridgetown Fire Hall Community Room with Rev. Gordon Delaney officiating. The family invites those who attend to wear bright colors.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jack’s memory may be sent to the I.W.K. Health Foundation, Diabetes Canada or to the Victorian Order of Nurses.

Online condolences may be posted at www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com