Benjamin Gerald MacIntyre

Benjamin Gerald MacIntyre

Sydney Mines, NS.

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Benjamin Gerald MacIntyre, age 93, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather on September 15, 2020 at MacGillivray Guest Home, Sydney, NS.

Born in Sydney Mines, NS, on February 28, 1927, he was the son of the late Ben and Annie Mae (Handley) MacIntyre. Gerald grew up in Bras d’Or, but at an early age, travelled to Ontario where he was employed on the lake boats, starting as porter and working up to first mate. He enjoyed sharing stories with his family of his many experiences sailing. In 1957, he returned to Sydney Mines and began a 33-year career with Devco as a diesel driver and later as wash plant operator at both the Sydney Mines and Victoria Mines sites. Gerald had a tremendous work ethic and a dedication to responsibility both in his professional and personal life.

He was a lifelong member of St. Pius X Parish (Holy Family) and was very involved as a volunteer in parish activities. While he sometimes said he had no hobbies, once he retired, Gerald became an avid walker and always enjoyed a good game of cards or darts. He also loved going to the cabin, and spending time with his children and grandchildren, often travelling to Calgary and the Valley to be with his family. 

Gerald is survived by his children, Celeste MacIntyre, Mary Theresa Reilly, and Gerard (Jeannette) MacIntyre; his grandchildren, Matthew (Carrie), Katherine (Jason), Colleen, Laura (Shawn), Mairibeth, Michael (Emma), Meghan and Justin (Marcie); his great grandchildren, Aidyn, Sabine, Mason, Ryan, Evan, Rad, Ankah and Ava; and his brother Carl (Sis). 

 Besides his parents, Gerald was predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, Thelma (Fifoot) MacIntyre, his sister Marie Lawrence, his brother George (Bernie) MacIntyre, his son-in-law Johnnie Reilly, and beloved grandson David. 

No visitation will be held by request of the family.  A private funeral service for Gerald will be held in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home Chapel, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney with Father Fabian Ihunegbo officiating, and burial following at St. Joseph Cemetery in Sydney Mines. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be made at www.wjdooley.com.   

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