Obituary of Vincent MacKenzie

The death occurred peacefully at Beach Grove Nursing Home, Charlottetown on February 3, 2024 of Neil Vincent MacKenzie of St. Catherine’s, age 91 years. Left to mourn are Hazel, his wife of 58 years; their children Grant (Colleen), Garth and Greg (Tania); also his grandchildren Heidi, Daniel (Darion), Alex, Ben, Austin (Sarah), Haley, Gracie, Ryan, Brayden and Logan MacKenzie; and one great-grandson Ryall MacKenzie. Vincent is survived by his sisters-in-law Madeline MacKenzie, Ottawa and Jean (Ernie) Gallant, Cornwall and by his brother-in-law Dr. J. Roger Hardy, Ottawa. Fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by his parents Neil and Ethel (Brown) MacKenzie and by his brother George MacKenzie of Ottawa. Vincent began his education in the one room country school in St. Catherine’s for his first 10 years. He then went on to Prince of Wales College where he earned his teaching certificate. He taught school for just a few years, supplementing his income by farming. In 1961 he joined the Charlottetown Post Office as a letter carrier, where he worked for the next 31 years. He still carried on the family farm with the help of his 3 sons for many more years. Vincent had a strong Christian faith. He was a member of Canoe Cove Presbyterian Church and an Elder, Sunday school teacher and Superintendent for over 46 years. He was very interested in his family and grandchildren. He attended many sporting events from watching the boys play hockey, to the grandchildren play soccer, basketball, rugby and baseball. When Greg and Tania moved to Stratford, for many years he would be there every day to see what he could do to help. He was quite at home on a tractor, and Greg could always keep him busy. In later years they spent the winter in Florida. After many airport delays, storms and missed flights, Vincent thought Hazel could drive and they would go on their own. With Vincent as co-pilot and Hazel the only driver they headed off. They always reached their destination and on predicted time. They had their first experience camping and for many years shared Greg and Tania’s motor home and later rented a cottage. Vincent really enjoyed the friendships he had formed over the years camping. He was a great chatter and could always find someone to talk to. Resting at Hillsboro Funeral Home, Stratford from where the funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Friday at 11 am. Visiting hours will take place on Thursday from 4-7 pm. Interment later in Canoe Cove Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made online to Canoe Cove Presbyterian Church Cemetery Fund.