It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Alexander Benedict MacDonald, who passed away on July 13, 2026, at the age of 65.

Born on November 25, 1960, in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Alex grew up in Gannon Road before making his home in Mill Creek. He was known for his incredible work ethic, determination, and the pride he took in every job. Alex was proud to have worked on the construction of the Confederation Bridge in Prince Edward Island before spending many years as a laborer in Fort McMurray, Alberta, where he was a proud member of Labourers’ Local Union 92.

Alex was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lorna (Peck); his parents, Lloyd and Susanna MacDonald; his brother, Lloyd MacDonald; his father-in-law, Stanley Peck; his nephew, Brett MacDonald; as well as many special aunts and uncles.

He leaves behind his loving children, Kristen (Stan), Alexandra (Brad), and Loren (Owen); and his cherished grandchildren, Brooklyn, Bennett, Coden, and Hayden, who knew and loved him as Poppy. Being their Poppy brought him endless pride and joy. He is also survived by his siblings, Paul (Patti) MacDonald, Austin MacDonald, Sandra MacDonald, and Jean (Robbie)

Donovan; his sister-in-law, Laurie Peck; his mother-in-law, Carmelita Peck; his aunts, Eileen Boutilier and Teresa MacDonald; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

To know Alex was to know someone who found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. You could almost always find him driving the back roads, stopping to visit a different beach, spending time at the horse races with friends, or down at the wharf, coffee in hand, watching the boats come and go and listening to the water. Whenever we were driving through town, we knew there was a good chance we’d find him there. He loved live music whenever he could find it, and if there wasn’t a band playing, there was always music coming from his phone. He could often be found wandering the aisles of Walmart, always on the lookout for a good deal.

Alex also had a special place in his heart for his beloved “fur-grandchildren.” Ava, Daisy, and Malley always knew they could count on Poppy for a treat, and there was usually a margarine container tucked away in one of his vehicles so they could stop for a drink of water. When Kitty came to live with him for a time, she was thoroughly spoiled with treats, toys, and plenty of love.

Alex enjoyed playing the lottery and was a familiar face wherever local charities were selling fundraising tickets. He had his regular stops and never missed a weekly draw. Even when he couldn’t make it out himself, he always made sure someone picked up his tickets for him. He also had a joke or a silly phrase ready for every occasion—usually the cornier, the better—and they always managed to make people smile.

Above all, Alex loved unconditionally. He was the kind of father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who was always there when someone needed him. Whether it was fixing something that seemed impossible or lending a helping hand, he was the man everyone counted on. To his family, he wasn’t just someone who could do anything—he was someone who would do anything for the people he loved.

Alex passed peacefully on July 13, 2026, surrounded by all of “his girls,” whose love never left his side. He walked straight into the arms of his beloved wife, Lorna, whom he had missed dearly every day since her passing.

After losing Lorna in 2009, Alex continued to raise his children with unwavering love, strength, and kindness. His guidance, steady presence, and unconditional love shaped our lives in countless ways, and his legacy will live on in each of us.

The past eight years brought many ups and downs, but through it all, Alex faced every challenge with incredible strength, courage, and determination. Time and again, he continued to defy the odds, inspiring everyone around him with his resilience and unwavering spirit. Our family is deeply grateful to the countless doctors, nurses, specialists, and healthcare professionals who cared for Alex during this chapter with compassion, dedication, and kindness. Your care brought comfort through some of our most difficult days, and we sincerely thank every one of you.

We will be holding two gatherings to celebrate Alex’s life. The first will take place on Tuesday, July 21, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Northern Yacht Club in North Sydney. The second will be held on Thursday, July 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall in Bras d’Or.

Alex’s kindness, generosity, quick wit, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he is no longer with us, his favorite songs will continue to play in our hearts, his laughter will echo in our memories, and his love will remain with us always.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.