Leo Joseph Mackey Sr. passed peacefully away in his home surrounded by his loving family on December 3, 2023, aged 84 years. Predeceased by his wife, Kathleen Pearl Westcott Mackey, his parents, John and Mary Moore Mackey, his brothers Paul and John and his sister Clare. Leaving to mourn his devoted family: children, Ann Marie (David Baldwin), Paula (Gary Brushett), Leo (Denise Mackey), John; special friend Patricia Mullins who was a source of great strength and support to him and his family to the very end; grandchildren, Ethan and Ryan; his sisters Mary Fleming, Margaret Beckman (Thomas), Patricia Prendergast (James) and a large circle of nieces and nephews and relations.

Leo was born in Carbonear, Newfoundland. His first job was with the American base in Argentia in 1957 where he received his trade in electronics and was recognized with an award for innovative thinking and excellent performance on the job. In 1969, he began his career with the Carbonear Trade School teaching electronics, retiring from this post in 1994. In 1973, he began a construction and rental company which he owned and operated until 1999. In 1985, while still teaching at the Carbonear Trade School and operating his rental business, he completed a degree in Vocational Education from Memorial University.

Leo was active in the McCarthy Council Chapter of the Knights of Columbus. He served multiple terms as Grand Knight as well as other positions on the executive. Leo was also involved in the Progressive Conservative Party for years, once serving as President of the local branch of the PC Party.

Leo has always been a tenacious worker who held himself to the highest standards and a devout believer in God. He was motivated to sacrifice for the benefit of his family which he prized more than any accomplishment. He has certainly instilled the importance of work ethic and love of family in his children.

He will be dearly missed.

The family would like to recognize Patricia Mullins and Patricia Prendergast for their countless hours of support. They were by his bedside through the final months and weeks, right up to the very end easing the burden for Leo and the entire family. A special thankyou to Ellen Merrigan of St. Patrick’s Parish who provided weekly pastoral ministry which was of great spiritual comfort to our father in his final months. Our sincere thanks go to so many of the staff of Coombs Homecare, especially Crystal Mercer, Krysta Crane Simms and Sherry Evely. Thank you to community Support Services and the Community Palliative Care Program for their excellent care and support, especially Leanne Newhook who came into our lives when we needed her most. Sincere thank you to Laura March-Prior and Kim Coveyduck for their kindness and support in our most difficult time. The family would also like to thank Dr. Howse and Dr. Karunanity.

Visitors will be received at Slade’s Funeral Home, Powell Drive in Carbonear on Tuesday, December 5 from 2 pm until 4 pm and 7 pm until 9 pm. Knights of Columbus will hold a rosary at 8 pm. Funeral mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Church, Carbonear on Wednesday, December 6th at 10:30am. Interment to follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Flowers are greatly appreciated or donations may be made in his memory to the St. Vincent de Paul Society Carbonear Food Bank of which Leo was a founding member.

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/132410671RR0339-society-of-st-vincent-de-paul-st-patricks-conference/

Condolences may be written to the family at: sladesfuneralhome.ca , on the Memory Wall section of the obituary. For further information please call Slade’s Funeral Home, Carbonear at 709-596-1212.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Slade’s Funeral Home, serving Carbonear, Upper Island Cove, Bay Roberts, Spaniard’s Bay and surrounding areas.

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