MACDONELL, Joseph Daniel, LCol (Ret’d), CD, RCAF-Log
Joe, age 90, passed away peacefully at the Perley Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre (Perley Health) 11 February 2022.
Joe was born and raised in Judique, Inverness County, Nova Scotia. Left to mourn are his wife of 61 years, Elaine (Murray), daughters Patricia, Teresa, Margo and Claire, sons-in-law Bois, Paul and Darryl, grandchildren Susanna, Devan, Catherine, David, Heather, Sarah, Alec and Jack, his sisters and brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews.
Joe graduated from the Nova Scotia Teachers College, taught for a few years, then headed to St. FX University, which led to a 25-year finance and accounting career in the Canadian Armed Forces (RCAF), followed by more than a decade at the Office of the Comptroller General of Canada.
Joe’s service in the Canadian Forces meant the family moved many times across the Maritimes, Labrador, Quebec and Ontario and overseas to Germany. He was renowned for planning ahead, being prepared and being organized no matter the task. It was these strengths, combined with his steadfast commitment to his family and his faith that allowed the family to enjoy community and parish life no matter where they lived.
In retirement, Joe devoted his time to volunteering – from committee work to helping out at the Shepherds of Good Hope – and, together with Elaine, enjoyed travel and welcoming friends and family members for wonderful meals in their home. A proud Cape Bretoner, he delighted in sharing his love of tartans, fiddle music and Gaelic expressions with his children and grandchildren.