“Mac” passed away peacefully in his sleep October 23, 2022 at Victoria General Hospital.
He is survived by his sisters Isobel Lucas of Oakville, Ontario, and Betty Mackenzie of Maple Ridge, BC. Daughters Sydney Ann Wilson and grand-daughter Ravyn Wilson of Victoria, BC. Son Hugh John Gerald Wilson of Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, grand-daughter Serena Boonstra (nee Albers) grandson Hugh Rolf Liam Mackenzie and grand-daughter Ariel Jean Richt Mackenzie. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Annalie, Daryn, Westley and Yvaine Boonstra (Serena) as well as many nieces and nephews.
“Mac” was predeceased by his loving wife Jean in 2016, sister Molly Clozza in 2019 and his brother Donald Mackenzie in 2010.
Mac had a very fulfilling life at sea and enjoyed it very much. Being raised on Digby Island, Prince Rupert gave him an affinity for the sea as in order to get to school he took a 14-minute boat ride. He had a brief office job in Vancouver but he preferred the water. He originally went to sea at age 20, in 1955 and started on the offshore boats for a number of years. He was hired on with the Coast Guard where he learned to work on older engines, which he had a knack for. Mac then moved to BC Ferries where he worked on several the original V-Class ships. After a few years, he moved on to the Fisheries Patrol based out of Victoria. He then got onto the tugs, where he remained for the rest of his career, starting with Shields Navigation and eventually he progressed to Seaspan Towing where after a long number of years he did eventually retire.
Mac was the kind of neighbour that if you needed a hand, he would offer his assistance or show you how something worked. He was always up a good laugh whenever possible and he had a good pleasant disposition – treated people well. He always provided for the family with a roof over their heads and food on the table.
A Celebration of Life for Mac will be held on November 7th at 2pm at McCall Gardens, Sequoia Centre, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
http://www.mccallgardens.com
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Joy A. Urlich
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Annette Schardin My heart goes out to the family for your loss. I first Mac and Jean on a tour in New Zealand in 1986. We kept in contact every year with Christmas cards. I thoroughly enjoyed Mac’s well written letters. Always good doses of humor in them.
May he rest in peace.Annette Schardin
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Mary Thomas Mac you were one of the best neighbours and friend to our family. We will miss your silly sense of humour. We enjoyed our Thursday shopping trips to Red Barn, Fairway Market and Shoppers Drug Mart were you couldn’t walk two feet without somebody recognizing you and stopping to chat. We had some fun drives in the “Bat Mobile” and our chats on the bench at Saxe Pointe in Esquimalt overlooking the ocean and you describing all the ships and freights passing by. Oh and I can’t forget the stops at Sidney or Esq. Bakery for a special sweet treat. You did like your sweets.
Mac you fought a tough battle at the end, but never once complained. Although you will be missed so very much and we will always think of you when we look across the street, you are now at peace and with your sweetheart Jean and the 3 stupids as you would call them.(your cats)Mary, Jay, Justin and Lucas Thomas
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Brian Harris Mac was a great neighbor. He was very friendly and We will miss our chats with him. Our deepest sympathy to his family and friends
Brian and Susan Harris
It is now January 2, 2023 . I have been phoning you dear Mac from New Zealand to wish you a happy new year. I finally googled your name and am shocked to find you have gone to catch up with Jean. Bless you both!!! Loved your visits plus mine to visit you. God bless you your new journey into eternity. Condolences to Sidney and Hugh and their families. Will miss your letters so much