It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shawn David Angus MacAskill, age 50, of Port Hawkesbury and formerly of Dundee, who passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Born and raised in Dundee, Shawn is survived by his mother, Alice MacAskill, Dundee his father, Angus (Pauline) MacAskill of Heatherton and he was a caring and devoted brother to Sheila (Travis Phillips) MacAskill of Halifax. He will be deeply missed by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, large extended family and many, many friends far and wide.
Shawn was predeceased by his stillborn sister, Kyla; his maternal grandparents, Bert and Alice MacIntosh, Dundee; his paternal grandparents, Duncan and Flora MacAskill, Glenora; and several aunts and uncles.
A proud graduate of St. Peter’s District High School, Shawn went on to serve his country with dedication and pride in the Canadian Armed Forces as a Field Engineer. Standing tall at 6’6”, he often joked about always being chosen as the spotter during military parades or about being teased by asking “How’s the weather up there?” Over the course of his service, Shawn did a 7-month tour of duty in Bosnia and Herzegovina and he was also involved in important relief efforts, including assisting during severe flooding in Manitoba and ice storms in Quebec.
Following his honourable discharge from the military, Shawn held various local jobs before heading west to Alberta, where he spent many years living and working.
When his health took a turn for the worse, he returned home to Cape Breton. He took great pride in purchasing his own brand new, beautiful mini home last year, a milestone that brought him much happiness.
Shawn had a deep love for the outdoors. He especially enjoyed deer hunting and spending quiet time in nature, where he found peace and contentment. He was a Maple Fans through and through. He enjoyed his time coaching High School basketball at Richmond Academy, Louisdale.
He enjoyed the friendship and support of his fellow veteran friends, especially Nelson O’Brien, who Shawn greatly loved and respected.
Much appreciation and thanks to the doctors and nurses at St. Martha’s and the Strait Richmond hospitals, who gave him such great care while he spent a year in hospital.
In his last year he enjoyed the friendship of his Port Hawkesbury neighbour and High School friend, Jamie Madden, who in that short year, came to consider Shawn as part
of their family. Shawn’s family appreciates all that Jamie, Tina and their sons did for Shawn. Your kindness will never be forgotten.
He will be remembered for his willing desire to lend a helping hand, wherever needed, his sense of humour, deep appreciation for the simple things in life and for his love of his family and friends. Shawn’s presence will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Cremation has taken place. A service will be held at Black River United Church on Saturday, June 13th at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Carol Joy Shatford, officiating. Burial to follow service at Black River Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Black River United Church in Shawn’s memory.
Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com
