Obituary of Michael William MacKinley

MacKinley, Michael William- 67, Murphy Cove, It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, son, brother, uncle and friend, following a brief, but courageous battle with cancer. Mike passed peacefully with is loving family by his side on April 10, 2023. Mike was born in Saint John N.B. on April 22, 1955 to parents Eileen (Roberts) and the late Edwin MacKinley. Mikes love for sports evolved at a very young age, and he often spent most of his time in the courts or on a field. During Mikes high school years, he was in his glory playing football for St. Malachys High. After graduating high school in 1973, Mike followed his fathers footsteps, working as a deckhand on the Princess Acadia that ran from Saint John to Digby. In that same year, Mike and his family made the move to Nova Scotia and settled in Liscomb. After working at a few different jobs, Mikes heart led him to the Nova Scotia Teachers College, which he attended from 1980-1983, majoring in physical education. He then received his bachelor of education from St. Marys University in 1984. His very first teaching position led him to Lockport N.S.. During his teaching career of 28 years, Mike was the circuit Phys. Ed teacher for Duncan MacMillan family of schools. In 1997, Mike transitioned to the classroom, teaching multiple grade levels at Moser River, Robert Jamieson and Oyster Pond Academy, and ended his full-time career in 2013 teaching grade 4 at Lakefront Consolidated. Following retirement, Mike continued to play a huge role in the students lives. He was a regular on the substitute list and organized/supervised many extra curricular activities for the students. Especially broom ball, one of the kids favourites. This continued until the doors at Lakefront closed in 2019. Mikes love and respect for children led him to hosting functions at his home so he could still be a part of their lives. Upon retirement, Mike was thrilled to be at home spending time with his fur babies and walking the shore line of many beaches, Port Hillford being his favourite. He was happiest sitting around a bon fire listening to music with family and friends, especially the country classics with his baby. Mike was an extreme hockey and football fan and was especially passionate about the Montreal Canadians and New York Giants who he enjoyed watching with his family. Anyone who knew Mike, knew he was very competitive and an all-round athlete. One could say it was bittersweet to have him on their team knowing he was going to give 110% but your chances of being MVP against him, were slim to none. Mike was also passionate and dedicated to the various teams he coached, womens softball being his favourite. Mike certainly has made a huge impact on many students, parents and communities. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 25 years Charlene, Murphy Cove, mother Eileen, Sherbrooke, sister Nancy (Gerry), Sackville N.S., brothers Gary (Carol), Fredericton, John (Lorna), Sackville N.S. and Mark, Liscomb as well as many nieces and nephews and fur babies Sully, Willo, Charlie and Boo. Predeceased by father Edwin, nephew Craig, fur babies Penny, Mack, Bear and Rogan. The family would like to thank all of the healthcare workers for their compassion and outstanding care shown to Mike during his final days, especially the staff at Eastern Shore Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be held Friday April 21 from 7-9 with prayers at 8 in DS Crowell & Son Funeral Home 22558 Highway 7 Sheet Harbour. Memorial Service will be held Saturday April 22 at 1p.m. in St. Peters Anglican Church, Murphy Cove Rev. Dr. Michael Foley officiating. Burial to follow in the Shoal Bay Cemetery, Murphy Cove. A celebration of life will follow at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 120 East Ship Harbour 15463 Highway 7. In lieu of flowers donations in Mikes memory may be made to your local SPCA. Online condolences may be directed to www.crowellsfuneralhome.ca “Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true” -Mike MacKinley