print this page
close this page

John MacDonnell

1984-2023

John MacDonnell

With great sadness, the MacDonnell family announces the passing of their beloved son and brother, John David Cory Mac Donnell, age 39, born in New Glasgow and lately of Chance Harbour. After years of sharing his heart with others, it was sadly a heart attack that took him away from us July 29, 2023.

Always at home outdoors, John would often be found hiking in Trenton Park, going to the beach, and listening to music. Despite his challenges, John always found time to be a friend and help anyone in need. However, John’s big love was always his kids, and he was very proud to see himself in them: Dakota’s loving and caring nature; Madison’s protective instincts; and David’s talent at mathematics. Throughout the years and adversity, John always kept his family as a guiding light, and leaves a space we can never fill.

John is survived by his children, Dakota Westaway; Madison and David MacDonnell and their mother, Diane McMullin. In addition to his children, John is survived by his parents, Sean and Jocelyne (nee Keith) of Chance Harbour; brother, Ryan (Michelle) of Prince George; sister, Anne (Thekla) of Merigomish; brother, Mark (Nina) of Toronto; nieces and nephew, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, Michael MacDonnell and Mary (nee Chabassol) MacDonnell, and Albert and Rose (nee Saindon) Keith.

Visitation 12pm-2pm Wednesday, August 9, followed by Celebration of Life at 2:30pm Wednesday, in R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Interment to follow the service at Holy Name Cemetery in Westville. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Heart and Stroke, or a charity of your choice. 

A letter from his youngest son: "Heavenly Father; I am sorry my Dad had to go. Please take care of him. He was the best. Please look after Maddy and Mommy. I love you. Amen." - David MacDonnell

Fágann an bás pian nach féidir le haon duine leigheas, fágann grá cuimhne nach féidir a ghabháil.

Service Date
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
Service Time
2:30pm
Service Location
R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow

Visitation
Wednesday, August 9
Visitation Time
12pm-2pm
Visitation Location
R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow

Requested Charity
Heart and Stroke Foundation; Charity of choice