Malcolm "Mal" John MacDonald

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Malcolm John MacDonald (Mal a.k.a M.J. on the east coast), age 82, of Georgetown, Ontario, on January 24, 2026. Mal passed peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.

Mal was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life was rooted in family, generosity, and music. Known for his kind and giving heart, his unmistakable stubbornness, and a lifelong lover of the guitar. Mal (self-taught) was a true performer, and touched all with his music whether it was playing around a fire pit during camping trips, friend and family celebrations, street parties and later at Amica where he and his wife lived for 5 years. He never said no when you handed him a guitar.

Born in North River, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Mal was the youngest of five children, born nearly 15 years after his siblings. He was raised by his parents, John Malcolm MacDonald and Elizabeth (Lizzie) Sarah MacAskill, who predeceased him. Growing up as the baby of the family helped shape Mal’s independent spirit, quiet determination, and strong sense of self.

Mal is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, his children Greg (Sonia) and Tamara, and the enduring love and guidance he leaves with them. He was a proud Papa to ten grandchildren: Cory, Brittany (Marolyn), Madison (Tyler), Jasmine (Michael), Arielle (Josh), Emily, Tyler, Travis, Jeremy, and Jessica -- who will remember him for his generosity, camping trips, jube jubes on pasta Sundays, strong opinions, and the guitar that was never far from reach. He was also deeply cherished by his eight great-grandchildren: Grace, Daniel, Aurora, Theo, Jack, Mason, Calista, and Liam. He was predeceased by his daughter Sarah (Beth) Elizabeth MacDonald, his siblings Donald and Jessie, and his parents.

Mal found joy in life’s simple pleasures. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully cheered on the Toronto Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, and both Canadian and American football teams— always hopeful that this would finally be their year. He read the physical newspaper every morning, especially the comics, answered every phone call on his trusted flip phone (proudly refusing all offers to upgrade to a smartphone). His use of technology was limited to the TV remote and his tablet, where he spent many hours playing poker and frequently joking about losing “millions.” He also loved to cook and was especially famous for his pasta sauce, a cherished recipe that has been lovingly passed down.

Despite a difficult prognosis, Mal defied the odds. His family is deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who supported him throughout his journey, and gave them nearly six more years together. During his final eight months, Mal lived with his wife, son, and family, where he was surrounded by love, comfort, and music until the end.

Mal will be remembered for the way he lived—steadfast, generous, and always ready to share a song. His presence and legacy will be deeply missed, but his music and spirit will live and carry on in his family, friends and everyone whose life he touched.

Visitation will take place at Jones Funeral Home, 11582 Trafalgar Road, Georgetown, on Thursday, January 29, 2026 between 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Parish prayers will begin at 4:30 p.m. - all are welcome to join. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Cross Church, 11440 Argyll Road, in Georgetown on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Interment Holy Redeemer Cemetery. A reception will follow the mass at the Holy Cross Church - Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Covenant House in Mal’s memory.

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