Please note updated burial information below.
Nelson Cluney MacKinnon – 82, Salmon River, Colchester County. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nelson Cluney MacKinnon on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Sackville, New Brunswick, Dad was the son of the late John Henry and Murial Emma (Wicks) MacKinnon.
The family later moved to Baddeck where Dad had fond memories of his early years. Along with his parents, Dad was predeceased by his beloved wife, Beverley (Johnson) MacKinnon; brother, David MacKinnon. He is survived by his family, sister, Anne Blair (Fred); brothers, Harold MacKinnon, Victor MacKinnon, Billy MacKinnon; daughters, Sherry MacKinnon, Truro; Jennifer MacKinnon, New Glasgow; son, Keegan MacKinnon (Misa), Halifax; grandson, Alexander Emery, Truro; great granddaughter to be, Bennett. He was also survived by his self-adopted family from Australia, the Jones - Ron, Heather, Grace and Abbi.
In his childhood years, Dad was a natural athlete in track and field and especially ball. He was competitive both as a ball player and later as a coach in numerous leagues throughout the province. After his playing days, Dad became a well-known and well thought of umpire in both the Intermediate and Senior Leagues in the province. He served as President of Truro Minor Hockey Association (2001-2006), President of Truro Bible Hill Baseball Association and was a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Dad was well-known for his encyclopedic knowledge of major league sports statistics, and his passion for the sport of harness racing and a lifelong New York Yankees Fan.
Dad's accomplished career "in uniform" began at the age of 17 with the Canadian Army, where he was a member of Royal Canadian Signal Corp and displayed expertise as a Signalman. Following several years with the Bagnall’s Cleaners, he embarked on a 38.5 year career of remarkable leadership within Nova Scotia Correctional Services, first as Superintendent of Colchester Correctional Facility in Truro until its closure, then moved to Antigonish and Cumberland Correctional Facility at the same time. Lastly, he worked at Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility in Dartmouth, ending his Career as Senior Superintendent in the Province.
During his career Dad received the Exemplary Service Award recognition at both his 25 and 35 year milestones. Dad also received the prestigious John Dunlap Award from The Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association in 2004 for his outstanding contribution to both the Criminal Justice Association and the community.
Dad touched the lives of many of us with his stories, kindness, humor and good nature. His children and grandchildren and soon to be great granddaughter will cherish memories of his warmth, wisdom and love forever in our hearts.
A celebration of life for family and friends will be held 1 p.m., Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Watson Cemetery, 1997 East Prince Street, Salmon River. Reception will follow at Salmon River Fire Hall, 1102 Salmon River Road, Salmon River. If so desired, donations in Nelson’s memory to "The Lodge That Gives" in care of the Canadian Cancer Society are welcomed.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com