Donald Jay MacKay

It is with great sadness that the family of Donald Jay MacKay, age 82, of Boisdale, announce his passing on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Born in Halifax on August 31, 1943, Donald was the son of the late Murray and Lillian (Jay) MacKay.  Donald was a skilled mechanic who took great pride in his work – a passion that stayed with him throughout his life, even well into his later years. Until his passing, he was employed with Andrew MacDonald Landscaping doing what he loved most, fixing and building anything with an engine.  His love of cars began early; in his younger years he worked in his dad’s Esso garage in Edwardsville.  He raced stock cars at Bud’s Speedway in Cape Breton where his competitive spirit and mechanical know-how always shone through. 

Donald also loved to trap, hunt and fish.  He served on the Board of Trappers Association.  A quiet and simple man, he spent many weekends fly-fishing and enjoying time with his grandchildren, sharing stories and laughter along the way. 

Never one to slow down, Donald also competed in truck pulling competitions, earning numerous trophies over the years.  His dedication, craftsmanship and work ethic defined much of who he was.

He is survived by his loving partner Francine Steele, his four children Cindy (Lloyd) Allen, Port Bickerton, NS, Dennis (Ardith), Great Village, Margaret (Darryl) Currie, Kelly (Randy) Currie, both of Masstown; his step-son Frankie Steele; his grandchildren Alexandra “Allie”, Kyle, Stephanie, Peter, Daniel, Jessica, Morgan, Lily, Sam, Alize, Gordon and Lila; his great-grandchildren Matilda, Oscar, Dallas, Hunter, Travis and Emersyn.  He is also survived by his brothers, Gerald (Gertie), John, David (Shirley) and Kenny (Heather); his sisters Wendy (David) Neil and Elizabeth (Harold) Samson, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.

Besides his parents Donald was predeceased by his sisters Marilyn and Beverley and his former wife Sally.

A Celebration of Life for Donald will be held from 11:30-1:30 on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Hotel North in North Sydney.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by leaving a message on the tribute wall of the obituary at www.wjdooley.com.

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