Winston Joseph Mackenzie

Winston Joseph MacKenzie, 79
New Victoria

It is with immense sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our sweet father, husband, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend after a courageous battle with cancer on July 12, 2021.

Dad was a devoted husband of 55 years to the love of his life Anita MacKenzie, who predeceased him by two weeks. Dad cherished mom and they shared a special kind of unconditional love which was inspiring to experience. Through mom’s illness Dad provided her with the best of care never leaving her side. Through Dad’s illness Mom stood by his side and was his strength to fight the horrible disease that plagued his body. Once mom left us, his heart was shattered, and he longed to join her in heaven. Dad was our hero who provided his family with a stable home filled with love and laughter. His silly antics brought much joy to anyone who would visit. A gentleman through and through, Dad was always willing to lend a helpful hand to anyone who needed it.

In his early years Dad enjoyed playing baseball and was part of several bowling leagues. where he bowled a perfect 300. Dad enjoyed playing Tarbish with mom where they spent many late nights at the kitchen table with family and friends. You could often find Dad at his secret fishing spot, and out at River Ryan ice fishing. Fishing was one of Dad’s favorite past times that he enjoyed with many of his friends, nephews, brothers, and brothers in law.

Dad was a hard worker who entered the Coal Mine at the young age of 15. Later Dad became a journeyman Steamfitter/Pipefitter and was a lifelong member of Local 682, which brought him to several worksites across the country where he made many friends whom he adored.

Dad is survived by his two children Winston (Midori) and Jolene (Shane), his four grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as poppy; Victoria, Kendall, Maxwell and Morley; sister Sharon; brothers Johnnie and Willie; sisters in law Verna, Catherine, Lovie, Agnes, Elaine, Colleen, Polly, Mary, Trina, Lorraine, Stella and Colleen; brothers In law Michael, Vince and Harry; special Niece Stella Corbett; special Nephew Teddy McRury; goddaughter Cathy McRury, Godson William MacKenzie and Special Cousin Martha Simmons.

Dad was predeceased by his parents Martha and Joe MacKenzie; loving wife Anita MacKenzie; father and mother in law Jack and Lena Tighe; sisters in law Anna, Victoria, Willena, Carmel, Anita, and Jessie; brothers in law Tommy, James, Jackie, Eddie, Frances, Tony, Bernie, Buddy, Don, John L., Horace, Mike, and Billy. Also left to mourn are many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who he adored dearly, along with many honorary sons and daughters to whom he was a father figure.

Donations in Dad’s memory can be made to the Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton or the Cape Breton Cancer Center. We would like to extend a special thank you to Raylene Tighe, the staff at the Cape Breton Cancer Center, Palliative Care and VON who provided exceptional care to our father during his end of life.

To the world, you are a dad
To our family, you are the world


Cremation has taken place. A chapel service will be held on Saturday, July 17, at 1pm, with Father Peter McLeod officiating. Covid restrictions will apply, and seating is limited.


Funeral arrangements are under the direction of McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave, New Waterford, 902-862-7500.