Martin Alexander Mackinnon

Martin MacKinnon
South Bar

It is with broken hearts that the family of Martin Alexander MacKinnon announce his passing on December 23 , 2021, at the age of 95, in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital after a short illness. Martin was born in North Sydney to the late James and Margaret (Collins) MacKinnon.

Martin was a marine engineer who retired from Marine Atlantic at the age of 65, after 23 years with the company. Martin was a decorated 2nd world war veteran who served with the Merchant Marine Navy. He served with distinction and honour and continued his unwavering dedication to the crown until his passing.

He was an active member with the Cape Breton Naval association and served as President. He received the Medallion of the convoy Cup Foundation in recognition of his service at sea during the second world war. He also served as President of the Royal Canadian Legion branch128 from 1998-2005 and was a lifetime member. He was awarded the Royal Canadian Legions Meritorious Service Medal in 2003. He also received the Palm Leaf to the Meritorious Service Medal in May of 2010 which is the highest award that can be granted to a legion member. Martin was also very involved in the poppy campaign and visiting schools for Remembrance Day. He was a very active member of his community, visiting vets in the hospital, volunteering in the community and the church, and keeping the Graveyard of St Alphonse’s Parish regularly maintained.

Martin is survived by daughters Martina (Les) , Linda (Paul), Heather (Mike), Gloria (Kurt) and sons Ernie and Jimmy (Susanne). He is also survived by 13 Grandchildren and 12 Great Grandchildren and sisters- in-law Marian MacKinnon, Pauline Mackinnon, Dolly Quinn and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Gloria, brothers Dan, Francis, Reg, Father Art MacKinnon, Billy, Allan, Ernie , Billy in infancy and his sister Mary and his beloved dog Lucky.

There will be a graveside committal service and interment at St. Alphonse’s cemetery, Victoria Mines on May 5, at 11 a.m., with Father Jim Oliver officiating. All are welcome to attend a reception at the Pier Legion Branch 128 following the burial.

Donations in Martin’s name may be made to a charity of choice

. “Remember me as I have last seen you, as you remember me.”


Funeral arrangements are under the direction of McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave, New Waterford, 902-862-7500. To send online condolences, go to: www.mclellanfuneralhome.com