Ronald "Jim" James McDonald

Jim passed away unexpectedly on December 2, 2024, at 82 years old. He lived his entire life in Halifax, always proud to call the city his home. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Mary Munroe; children, Phil McDonald (Jacqueline), Karen McDonald (Simon), and Chris Munroe (Jenny); and grandchildren, Connor, Megan (Adam), Nathan, and Michael. Jim will also be dearly missed by his former wife, Dianne McDonald and close family friend, Rick Ganner.

He is predeceased by his parents, James and Florence (nee Tobin) McDonald.

Jim was a letter carrier with Canada Post until his retirement in 1999. He was admired by his many customers for his steady reliability and friendly approach. Many of his colleagues became lifelong friends.

A gifted athlete, Jim excelled in both hockey and baseball. After Junior A, he played hockey for the Fairview Aces of the Halifax Suburban League, later coaching the team. He participated in various recreational leagues and enjoyed competing in tournaments across Canada. Jim spent summer months on the ball diamond, playing baseball in the Senior League before turning his talents to fastball in later years.

Notably, Jim was a proud member of the renowned 1962 Vaughan Furriers Junior Baseball Team, known for bridging racial divides and winning the Maritime Championship. The team was enshrined into the Maritime Sport Hall of Fame and the Nova Scotia Baseball Hall of Fame. Every member of that team remained dear friends for life.

A highlight of Jim’s sporting life was coaching his son Chris on several minor baseball teams. He, as manager, and Chris, as player, represented Nova Scotia in tournaments on both the Maritime and National stage.

Jim also loved the beach. For decades, he and Barbara spent springtime on Clearwater Beach in St. Petersburg, Florida, enjoying sun, surf, and relaxation. In Nova Scotia, beaches on the south shore were favourites.

Jim’s kind nature, friendly wit, and ready smile were his trademarks. He is loved, and will be dearly missed, by friends and family alike.

The family is hosting a celebration of Jim’s life at the Fairview Legion, 50 Hillcrest Street, Halifax on January 3, 2025 from 2-4 p.m.