Obituary of James Archibald MacDonald

It is with deep sadness that the family of James A. MacDonald announce his passing on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, peacefully at home. Born August 12th, 1945, he was the son of James A. and Catherine (Ferguson) MacDonald of Portage. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Joan (MacArthur) MacDonald. Jim worked in the trucking industry and later worked in the forestry industry with his good friend, Cecil MacArthur. A talented carpenter, he could build anything; our home and garage, numerous boats and his root cellar. He was happy to share his skills with all who knew him. He was a well-known water diviner around the Cape Breton area, helping many find water. He was proud of his Doctor of Motors Certification in mechanical training. He loved music and was Wilf Carter's biggest fan. Happiest in his garden, growing the best potatoes and yellow beans. His two tractors were his most prized possessions. A lover of animals, giving a home to Belgian horses and six dogs over the years. He will be missed by Josie. A friend to many who will miss his good deeds and stories. Also survived by his sisters, Mary (late Hector) MacNeil, Anne (Roddie) MacNeil, and Joan's siblings; Sharon (late Eddie) Campbell, Bobby (Gina), Anne Marie (Greg) Pasternak, Margie (Robert) Eisan, Johnny, Cathy (Barry MacKay), Charlie (Cindy), Susie (Arthur MacKinnon), Tracey (Sean) O'Rourke and Tammy (Sean) MacSween; and sister-in-law, Catherine MacArthur. He was predeceased by his parents, James A. and Catherine (Ferguson) MacDonald; parents-in-law, Donald (Boo) and Theresa MacArthur; nephew and friend Roddie MacNeil; brothers-in-law, Hector MacNeil, Dougie MacArthur, Jimmy MacArthur and Eddie Campbell. Special thanks to the Doctors, nurses and staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital and also Palliative Care and VON for making Jim's last days at home comfortable. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, NS, 902-539-7175. There will be no service or visitation as per his wishes. Words of comfort may be shared with the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.