MacNeil, Donald “Arnold”

Baddeck, NS

It is with deep sadness that the family of Donald “Arnold” MacNeil announces his passing on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, following a brief illness.

Arnold was the son of the late Michael Anthony and Mary Agnes (MacNeil) MacNeil.

He is survived by his sisters, Isabel Mills, Dartmouth and Kaye Anne MacNeil, Benacadie West; stepbrother, Bruce Burns (Marilyn), Dartmouth; stepsister, Mary Curran, Lower Sackville; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Arnold had a very close relationship with his nephew, Shane MacNeil and family (Stephanie and Drew). They were fortunate enough to be neighbours - sharing many stories, meals, and laughs over the years.

Besides his parents, Arnold was predeceased by his wife, Sissy; brothers, Lawrence, Allan and Leo; sisters, Frances, Agnes, Jeanette and Eleanor; stepmother, Bridget Burns MacNeil; and stepbrothers, Bill and Donald Burns.

For 17 years, Arnold was a proud member of the Canadian Armed Forces and upon returning to his Cape Breton home, he captained the C. Monty MacMillan ferry between Iona and Grand Narrows until its final crossing on October 23, 1993. Following this he was Manager of the Barra Strait Bridge until his retirement. After retirement, Arnold and Sissy moved to Baddeck where he spent many days a week at the Baddeck Curling Club participating in one of his favourite sports. He was a member of the South Haven Community Hall, also serving as their Treasurer. He was an avid sports fan, always cheering the loudest for Canada’s teams. Arnold will always be remembered for his community involvement, his kindness, his sense of humour, and quick wit.

Visitation will be held at St. Columba Church, Iona, N.S. on Thursday, May 8th from noon-2 p.m. followed by funeral mass at 2 p.m. Following interment in St. Columba Cemetery, a light lunch will be served in the St. Columba Parish Centre.

A special thank you to the staff of Victoria County Memorial Hospital for your compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.