Robert Roy MacDonald

Robert R. MacDonald

North Sydney

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden death of our brother and uncle, Robert Roy MacDonald of North Sydney on December 18th, 2019. Born in Moncton NB on June 13th, 1954; he was the son of the late Hugh “Sonny” & Teresa (Ryan) MacDonald.

Robert was a graduate of St Joseph High School and went on to study at St. Mary's University, Halifax. In his now legendary Hollis Street apartment, he hosted kitchen parties for his many friends involving good food, storytelling and laughter. He charmed everyone who met him with his big smile, quick wit and incredible sense of humor. Robert was a master storyteller and jokester.

Eventually he would study photography at NSCC, graduating in 1997 with a diploma in Photographic Arts and Digital Imagery. Robert was an incredible photographer. His love and passion for photography led him to travel throughout North America and Europe, capturing gorgeous sunsets and stunning architecture.

Robert returned to North Sydney, working at Marine Atlantic for many years. He established a side business in wedding photography and photo restoration. His camera was never out of reach as he continued to take photos of Cape Breton’s spectacular landscapes and his ever present companions and favorite models – our family dogs. He adored his dogs, especially his beloved bulldog “Sophie”.

Carpentry and furniture restoration were among his many hobbies. He always seemed to have a home renovation project on the go. He would spend hours in the kitchen, whipping up delicious food for his friends and family. His signature dishes, “Spaghetti Delish” and “Rhubarb Torte” were culinary delights. He enjoyed landscaping and gardening, cultivating amazing roses, flowers and vegetables.

Robert is survived by his siblings; Jacinta (Dale) Archibald, Antigonish, Brian (Judy), Ottawa, Bill, Halifax, Michael (April) North Sydney, Brent (Jennifer), Dartmouth and his sister in law Miriam MacDonald, Coxheath. He was “Uncle Rob” to his four nieces: Shanon, Kathryn, Olivia and Abigail; and seven nephews: Jonathan, Christopher, David, Drew, Thomas, Liam and Vincent; of whom he was very proud. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, “David Hugh”.

Cremation has taken place. No visitation by request. A funeral  mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday March 28, 2020 at St. Joseph Church, North Sydney with Rev. Patrick O'Neill officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant St., North Sydney.  Donations in Robert’s memory can be made to the Cape Breton SPCA, North Sydney Food Bank or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.wjdooley.com .

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