Robert Kitchener "R.K." MacKinnon

It is with great love and aching hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Kitchener (R.K.) MacKinnon who died peacefully at age 95 on August 19th surrounded by his loving family at Queens General Hospital.

R.K. was born in Windsor, Hants Co., the last surviving child of Robert & Jean (Smiley) MacKinnon (predeceased by siblings Shirley, Jim & Ian). He was predeceased by the love of his life, Dorothy Anne in 2016 after 64 years of marriage, with whom he enjoyed countless cherished memories. He is survived by daughters Barb (Ulf) Snarby, Bev (the late Jan) Pettersen, Becky (Archie) Mason and son John (Lori) MacKinnon. He was a devoted grandfather to Kristopher, Andreas, Hans, Brenna, Ben, Liana, Nathaniel, Bria and great-grandchildren Tove, Trig, Freja & Aksel.

After graduating from Liverpool High School where he excelled in sports, band, and served as Mayor of the School Council, R.K. attended Maritime Forestry School. R.K. spent his working career in Rossignol as District Superintendent – South Shore / Rossignol for the Mersey Paper Company, later Bowater Mersey. He spent much of his working life at the ‘base camp’ in Rossignol creating memories with his fellow woodlands crew who always spoke of their high regard for R.K. He was especially proud of helping make Queens County the Forestry Capital of Canada in 1987.

R.K. & Dorothy Anne raised their tight-knit family on Main Street for nearly 60 years, welcoming friends, neighbours, and strangers who always left as friends. Many memories were created during those years including family road trips, traveling to EXPO ‘67 in Montreal as a member of the Mersey Band, and cheering on numerous sporting and cultural events of his children and grandchildren. Their home was the heart of countless celebrations—Christmas dinners, Easter gatherings, and birthday parties.

Never one to idle well, upon retirement in 1991, R.K. embraced curling, bridge, golf, and became an active member of the Kings Orange Rangers. He joined local gyms and became part of the regular 5am crew at Queens Place in his 80s. He remained active post-COVID, walking the track and attending weekly Privateer hockey games and curling tournaments.

R.K. believed deeply in giving back to his community through organizations including the Kinsmen Club, K-40, Zion United Church, and the Progressive Conservative Party, where he eagerly helped organize many winning campaigns. R.K. was a true gentleman and friend to anyone who was fortunate to meet him. He was always happiest being surrounded by family, friends and neighbours. He cherished his long time friends, many of whom have passed, but also took on the unofficial role of the “Mayor of Fort Point” by welcoming newcomers who moved onto the street over the past six decades. He always looked forward to his weekly Thursday Drinks Club with ‘the boys’. Many of us have joked that R.K. – in his 90s – had a larger social life than all of us combined.

The loss of his beloved Dorothy Anne nine years ago was softened by the support he received from many people in his special neighbourhood and the broader community. Neighbours such as Loris & Ron who would always check in, fix things as needed or share a drink, and countless people who would drop off freshly baked goodies and meals which were always appreciated. The support provided by "his girls” (Trisha, Dale, Nicole, Robbie-Lynn, Erika, Kathy, Colleen, Cassie & Alicia) enabled him to remain at home for so long. Our family is forever grateful for their caring dedication.

As we move forward without this special man physically with us, we take heart knowing that he has taught us many important life lessons; "Left is Right" for flag placement, always escort guests to the door, drink rum with ice and a splash of water, don’t ever be the only person in a room that’s not having a drink, and a jingle of car keys means it's time to go home.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers' Funeral Home. A celebration of his wonderful life will be held Monday, August 25th at 2:00 pm at the Astor Theatre in Liverpool with Reverend Joanne McFadden officiating. Reception to follow. A private burial will take place at a later time. Family flowers only; donations in his memory can be made to Queens General Hospital Foundation or the Astor Theatre Society. Online condolences may be made below.

The family wishes to acknowledge the outstanding care R.K. received from paramedics, nurses and doctors at South Shore Regional Hospital and Queens General Hospital.

In true R.K. spirit, take time to say hello to friends and strangers alike—kindness goes a long way in making the world a better place. While greatly missed, we take comfort knowing he made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to call him a friend.