MACGILLIVRAY, Matthew (Matt)
It is with profoundly broken hearts and unfathomable sorrow that we announce the death of Matthew (Matt) MacGillivray, 37, of Bedford, NS, on Sunday, November 19, 2017, following a courageous battle with cancer. Matt passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family.
Matt is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Amy (Champion), and the three people who meant everything to him in this world, his children, Abigail (8), Jonah (5) and Caleb (1). He is also survived by and will be dearly missed by his parents, Lynda Moffatt (Gregory Carrigan) of Port Hawkesbury and Bill MacGillivray (Judy Harris) of Dartmouth; his beloved sisters, Victoria (Ken) Brosowsky of Calgary, Elizabeth (Andrew) Fraser of Sydney and brother, Sean, Dartmouth; nephews, Bennett and Ethan, who adored Uncle Matt; parents-in-law, Chuck and Susan Champion (Sydney), with whom Matt had a very close relationship; brother-inlaw, Josh Champion (Jennifer Tobin), Kentville, and countless cherished friends.
Matt will be fondly remembered for his generous spirit, boundless energy and joyful enthusiasm for everything he did. Matt was an adventurer at heart with many passions in life including cycling, music, and more recently riding his motorcycle. He proudly served his community for 13 years and strongly believed in giving back to others. He was a helpful neighbour, supportive friend, and ever-willing volunteer. He had a strong faith in God and was deeply involved with his church in many capacities over the years, most notably leading worship through music.
Matt lived his life fully and passionately, right to his last day. He had an amazing sense of humour and he loved to laugh and to make others laugh. Matt was truly a unique individual with an uncanny ability to engage people and build enduring friendships. His bright and infectious smile always lit up the room and his fun-loving nature endeared him to everyone who was lucky enough to know him. He was an exceptional husband and father. Not a day went by that his family did not feel his complete love and utter devotion. He brought unmatched and irreplaceable personality and fun to everyday moments and experiences with his children that will forever be cherished in memory.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the extraordinary support they received during Matt’s illness from family, friends, neighbours, groups and organizations. You have all been a blessing during a tremendously difficult time.
According to Matt’s wishes, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life to honour Matt will be held at Cornerstone Wesleyan Church, Hammonds Plains, NS on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at 3 p.m.
In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Matt’s heart for Christian mission outreach, donations in his honour can be made to World Vision Canada, Samaritan’s Purse/Operation Christmas Child or Compassion International (see below). https://www.worldvision.ca/ https://www.samaritanspurse.ca/
https://www.compassion.com/