James MacDonald

MACDONALD, James Martin (Buck) 79, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on September 2, 2008 in Titusville, Florida. A native of Sydney Nova Scotia, Buck graduated in 1951 from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, NS. He began his career with the Royal Canadian Air Force and served until 1967, obtaining the rank of Squadron Leader. After resigning his commission with the RCAF, he joined Burroughs Corp. in Pennsylvania. Following a ten year career with Burroughs, he and partner Tom Skinner established Jatom Systems Inc. (JSI) in 1979. Their partnership has led to the success of JSI as well as other pursuits. His greatest loves were his family, his work, flying and his hobbies (golf and curling); and of course he could never resist a great practical joke. He was the beloved husband of Evelyn (nee Ryan); loving father to son John and daughters Patti Steele (Tom) and Deirdre Weston (Marty). Doting Grandfather to Kristin Mike (Nathan), Jessica Steele (Mark Kalendra) and Natasha Weston. He is survived by his sisters Marie McKeil (Bob), Ruth Jessome and Cathie Curry. Buck was predeceased by his mother, Ann Marie (nee Raymond), father John James, brother, Ray and sister, Joan. He is also survived by many much loved nieces and nephews. A Memorial service celebrating Jim will be held on Saturday, September 20 (10:00AM) at the Blessed Sacrament Church in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Friends in Florida are invited to attend an Open House at his home on Thursday September 4th from 3 to 5 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the Hospice of St. Francis.