Obituary of A. Blake McDonald
It is with sadness mixed with joy that the family of A. Blake McDonald, age 88, announces his passing to his eternal home, which occurred at McDonald’s Point, NB on Saturday, November 14, 2015. Born on September 29, 1927 in McDonald’s Point, NB, he was the oldest son of the late Arnold and Ruth (Coleman) McDonald.
Blake is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Nancy (Clark) McDonald; son Allan (Karen) of Grand Manan; and daughter Amber (Ronnie) Webster of McDonald’s Point. Also missing their Grampy Blake are his grandchildren: Charity McDonald (Allan Thorne), Liza McDonald, Sarah McDonald, Mitchell (Laura) Webster, Meghan (Ryan) McGarity and Mallory (Scott) Myers; great grandchildren: Lydia, Madelynn, Shayna, Weston, Izabel, Cole and Alex. Blake’s siblings are his sister Louise (Holly) Reicker of Alberta; brothers Malcolm (Joanne) McDonald and Alvin (Dorothy) McDonald both of McDonald’s Point. He was also blessed with many brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents, Blake was predeceased by his brothers Jim (age 5) and Donald.
Blake dedicated his life to serving his God, family, church and community. He was known for his strong work ethic, his faithfulness and for always being there when help was needed. For 60 years Blake served as clerk for his church and the community cemetery, always making sure things were in a good state of repair.
The family farm, A. B. McDonald & Son, provided employment for many community residents over the years as well as summer employment for hundreds of students. When the farm was operating, McDonald’s strawberries and tomatoes were well known throughout the greater Saint John area and beyond. Before retiring in 2003, Blake changed from growing produce to a greenhouse bedding plant business.
Seeing a need in the community, Blake and his brother bought and fixed up an old fire truck. This eventually led to the formation of the Wickham Volunteer Fire Department.
Blake took great interest in people and considered it a pleasure to know everyone from the bank teller to the grocery clerk.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to all who helped care for Blake during his final days. The owners and staff of Great Oaks Special Care Home and the Extra Mural nurses were exceptional in their kindness.
He is resting at Sherwood's Funeral Home and Life Tribute Centre (839-2156) 18 Scovil Road, Norton with visitation on Tuesday from 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 pm. The funeral service, conducted by Rev. Todd Cameron, will be held from Central Wickham Baptist Church at 11 am on Wednesday, November 18, 2015. Interment will take place in the McDonald’s Point Cemetery.
Donations in memory of Blake may be made to the McDonald’s Point Cemetery or to the memorial of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through SherwoodsFuneralHome.com