Clifford Patrick MacKay

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Clifford Patrick MacKay (age 74) on October 25, 2020 at the QEII. Born in Glace Bay, Cape Breton he was fostered by Fred Snow, the greatest influence in his early life, who encouraged him to pursue barbering. At the age of 18 he completed his trade as a barber in Moncton and came to Halifax in 1967. He worked at the Golden Clipper (Halifax Insurance Building) till 1975 when he went on to open up his own successful barber shop the King’s Krown where he worked until March 2020. No one could keep a captive audience like Cliff, so being a barber suited him well. He loved his clients, some of whom he had a 52 year relationship. Never at a loss for words, Cliff had an opinion on every subject and was often interviewed and quoted in the media. He entertained his clients with his wide range of knowledge and loved to express his thoughts on varied topics from philosophy and religion, to politics and sports, or the latest book he read.

Apart from his work Cliff was an avid bowler for 50 years and belonged to the Men’s Pro League, the Senior League, St. Pius Mixed League and Sunday morning bowling with friends. He was a true sports fan, a huge Montreal Canadians fan and proud Halifax Moosehead ticket holder for 25 years.

He will be remembered for his great work ethic, love of music (especially the 60’s and 70’s genres), good food, love of animals, and his phenomenal ability to recall details and statistics. He was also well known for his sense of humour, gift of gab, and his ability to connect with those from all walks of life. However, by those closest to him he will be remembered most for his generosity and love for his family. His greatest treasures were his children, grandchildren and his wife, who was his soulmate and business partner for 47 years.

He is survived by his loving wife Janet MacKay (Resk), his daughters Tara of Halifax and Melissa MacKay of Toronto, his son Jon MacKay (Lisa) of Vancouver, three grand-children Aeriana, Gabriel and Tobias and his half-sister Katherine Snooks of Ontario. His in-laws Carole Curtis (Fred), Linda Corsetti, Albert Resk (Janet Hiltz-Resk) and Leo Resk (Valerie). His nephews Jesse Resk, Omar Corsetti (Karen) and Oliver Resk as well as his niece Natalia Corsetti. Predeceased by foster father Fred Snow and first wife Barbara Thomas.

We would like to thank the staff of the QEII 5.1 ICU for their care.

For everyone wanting to attend, a visitation will be held at Snow’s Funeral Home, Lacewood Drive on Wednesday, November 4th 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. (Open to the public; Covid protocols will be followed). Mass will be held at Saint Mary’s Basilica, officiated by Archbishop Anthony Mancini, Spring Garden Road on Thursday November 5th at 10 a.m. (Private family service due to church Covid restrictions; Live stream address www.stmbasilica.com)

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.