Obituary of Donald James MacEachen

With hearts full of sadness and love, we announce the passing of Donald James MacEachen, 88, on February 5, 2024, at the Kiwanis Nursing Home in Sussex, New Brunswick. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.

Born on August 18, 1935, in Broad Cove, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, he was the son of the late Lauchie and Bridgett (MacKinnon) MacEachen.

Don was a miner by trade and earned the nickname “Coast to Coast” through working in every province and territory in Canada except Prince Edward Island. His longest-held, and final, position was in the PCS mine in Penobsquis, where he was well-loved by all those who knew him. He retired in 2000 after 20 years in Penobsquis. After retirement, he stayed in Penobsquis and remained active with the Knights of Columbus, the Liberal Party, and numerous other activities. It would be impossible to name, or even count, all the people touched by his kindness or entertained by his sharp wit over the years.

The family would like to extend thanks to the staff of the Kiwanis Nursing Home for the exceptional care that Don received, particularly in the past week. Their unwavering hospitality to the incoming flood of visitors meant he was constantly surrounded by love, support, music, and laughter through his final days on this Earth.

Don will be greatly missed by his wife of 44 years, Margaret (Cameron) MacEachen; his grandson, Keith (Dana); his siblings Hughie (Connie) and Sari (Tom, predeceased); and his many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his stepdaughter Anne (Arno, surviving), and his siblings Carmel (Sonny), Christine, Frank (Gina), and Anne.

Donations in Don’s memory may be made to the Kiwanis Nursing Home or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB (506-433-1176). There will be a visitation on Sunday, February 11, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Wallace Funeral Home in Sussex. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis Xavier Church in Sussex on Monday, February 12, at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow. Burial will take place in the spring.