MacDonald, George William

Halifax, NS

March 15, 1942 - September 23, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that the family of George William MacDonald announce his peaceful passing on September 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, at Parkstone Enhanced Care in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

George was born on March 15, 1942, to Dorothy (Ferrand) McDonald and Gordon McDonald in Halifax, NS.

George met the apple of his eye, Janet (McDougall), at the age of 12 in Maitland, NS, and finally married her on June 6, 1964, after several summer visits, hundreds of letters, and many years of dating. Together they had a beautiful life built on their shared passions, close-knit family, great adventures, and unwavering love for each other.

In his career, George was never afraid to take on a challenge. Open to moving across the country and around the world, George was a business leader of great integrity and vision. One of his proudest accomplishments was becoming an executive at Imperial Oil where he led teams in Calgary, Malaysia, Russia, and Azerbaijan. As he would say, this North Hants Rural High boy had “done good”. He remained passionate about traveling and learning to the end.

Always with a twinkle in his eye, kindness in his heart, and quick wit, George was loved deeply by his family. To his grandchildren, he was “Papa,” the one who never said no to ice cream, who came back from the store with twenty things when he was sent for one, and who delighted in having their help on the John Deere tractor for whatever task needed to be done.

His generosity was boundless, his laughter infectious, and his love of music and family filled every gathering with joy. Competitive in the best and most playful ways, George had a gift for turning life into something fun, meaningful, and full of love.

He leaves behind not just memories, but the legacy of a man who lived with open hands, a full heart, and a spirit that will always be remembered.

George is survived by his wife, Janet; his three children, James (Rochelle), Heather (Bob VanDorpe), and Heidi Leslie (Stefan); five grandchildren, Michael (Sydney), Jordyn (Brody), Jade (Braeden), Annika Leslie, and Mattias Leslie; two great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Everly; his sister, Beth deCarle (Art); and his brother, Curtis.

He will be missed terribly by his family, friends and the wider community including at Trinity United Church in Mahone Bay, The Berkeley on Pepperell and Parkstone Enhanced Care.

The family will always be grateful to the staff at Parkstone for the incredible care and love he received in his final year. They too appreciated his sense of humour which was with him to the end.

A celebration of life will be held at Trinity United Church in Mahone Bay at 11:00 am on Monday, September 29, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring George’s memory with a donation to Trinity United Church in Mahone Bay or to a charity close to your heart.

MacDonald, George William