Rev. William Joseph Macdonald, O.M.I.

Father Bill MacDonald was born in Vancouver BC to parents Alexander and Catherine MacDonald of Nova Scotia.  He is predeceased by brothers Charles and Jack MacDonald.  He is survived by his brother Alexander (Phyllis) of Abbotsford BC and many nephews and nieces.

Fr. MacDonald received his primary and secondary education at St. Patrick’s School in Vancouver.  He attended the University of British Columbia for one year in the Arts program.  On September 7, 1958 he entered St. Theresa’s Novitiate, Arnprior ON.  He completed studies in Philosophy & Arts at Holy Rosary Scholasticate & St. Patrick’s College; and Theology at St. Paul’s University, Ottawa ON.  He also completed the Renewal Program at Menlo Park and S.A.T. in California and Aix en Provence in France.

Fr. MacDonald professed his first vows on September 8, 1959, Perpetual Vows on September 8, 1962, and was Ordained in the Order of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate December 18, 1965 at Holy Rosary Cathedral in Vancouver, BC.

His Obediences in BC included:  Missions in Chase, Vernon &  Prince Rupert.  He served as Pastor in Kitimat, Edmonton, Lethbridge, New Westminster, Vancouver, Smithers, Campbell River and Sacred Heart Cathedral, Prince George BC.  He also served as a Chaplain for the Apostleship of the Sea of the USA – Cruise Ship Priest Program.

Fr. Bill was always welcoming and hospitable to parishioners and visitors alike.  He was a great storyteller.  He had many connections and kept in touch with people, particularly those in need.  He possessed a zeal for witnessing to Christ’s love which exceeded the boundaries of his own parishes and indeed, Canada.  He organized his parishioners at several parishes to visit the Oblate missions in Peru.  Consequently, they established a prayer and resource network to support and promote the Oblate ministry in Peru.  His commitment to reaching beyond Canadian borders was not limited to Oblate missions.  He was very active in supporting the arrival of refugees from other countries and in promoting the sale of coffee from Nicaragua.

Fr. Bill’s hobbies were sailing, skiing and fishing.

He resided at the Oblate House (The Crescent) residence in Vancouver.  He passed away September 28, 2023 at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver at the age of 84.

Funeral services:  Viewing at 9:30 am followed by Mass on Thursday, October 12th, at 10:00 am at St. Augustine’s Church, 2028 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver BC.

Interment at the Oblate Cemetery in Mission, BC.