Charles Douglas Maginley

It is with deep gratitude for the life of Charles Douglas Maginley, b. June 26, 1929 in Antigua, West Indies, that we announce his passing on Sept. 12, 2020, surrounded by love and family at his home in Mahone Bay, NS. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Maginley, second wife, June Maginley, and his stepdaughter Pamela Holm. He is survived by his five children: Rachel, Robin (Valerie), David (Erika), Christopher and Amanda; six grandchildren: Suzanne, Ryan, Derek and Megan, Malcolm and Emma; three stepchildren, Heather (Steve), Mike (Dory) and Carol (Blake) Holm; and first wife Marilyn Hill.

Our father lived a spectacular life! A seafaring man, Dad worked in the Merchant Marine, was an officer in the Canadian Navy, a Master Mariner, a teacher at the Canadian Coast Guard College and at the Nova Scotia Community College. Retiring in 1990, he opened a bed and breakfast, wrote three books on the history of the Coast Guard, and lectured frequently as a Nautical Historian. Dad loved being involved in his community of Mahone Bay; he acted in theatre productions, helped with the Wooden Boat Festival and the annual book sale, played Father Christmas for the town, attended Tai Chi, and went dancing every opportunity he could. Coffee at the Biscuit Eater was also daily opportunity to connect with friends. He was a dedicated father, an adventurous spirit, a man who lived in the moment and loved life to the fullest. Dad so enjoyed a good conversation, and always said "You must accept people for who they are." As his family, we are still discovering who he was, as his character and career are deeper than we imagined. He was always a gentleman, a scholar, had a warm wit and charm, was an outstanding teacher, maintained lifelong friendships, was always willing to give his time, and knew he was unconditionally loved. He was ready to cross the bar knowing he had lived a good life to its fullest. Memorial service to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Nova Scotia Cancer Program, made through the QEII Foundation, are appreciated.