Obituary of Mary "Germaine" MacKinnon

Surrounded by love, Mary ‘Germaine’ MacKinnon passed away on August 14, 2025, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital. Born August 19, 1939, in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, she was the daughter of the late William and Mary (Burns) Chiasson and the beloved wife of the late Jack MacKinnon.

Germaine’s life was marked by a deep commitment to nursing and a passion for advancing the profession. She began her nursing studies at St. Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing in Glace Bay, NS, and continued to advance her education throughout her career, earning a Bachelor of Nursing and later a Master’s in Education. Her passion for healthcare led her to teach and mentor others in the field, eventually serving as Director of Nursing at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital. After leaving the hospital, she continued her work in healthcare through the Department of Health until her retirement.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Germaine had a vibrant and loving spirit. She cherished her pets, delighted in playing the piano, and found joy in entertaining—her home was always warm and full of laughter from visiting friends and family. She loved to travel, creating lifelong memories on many family vacations.

Germaine will be deeply missed by her children, James MacKinnon (Barb) and Sandra MacKinnon Mazerall (Robert). She was a loving grandmother to her grandchildren, Gillian, Erin, Kaitlyn, Alex, and Sidney, and a proud great-grandmother to Carson, Parker, Declan, Thea, and Emma. In addition to her parents and husband, Germaine was predeceased by her siblings, George Chiasson and Pauline Boudreau.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital for their exceptional care.

A memorial service will be held at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with Fr. John Jennings officiating.

A private family interment will take place at the Hermitage Catholic Cemetery. For those who wish, donations in Germaine’s memory may be made to the Chalmers Foundation or a charity of your choosing.