Bert McGonegal

The family of Bert Joseph McGonegal mourns the loss of a deeply beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Born May 1, 1936, Bert died peacefully on April 18, 2026, at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Elliot Lake, just weeks before his 90th birthday. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon McGonegal (née Dale); his children, Rose Mary (Warren Clarke), Elaine, Julie (Peter McDonald), Mark, Kathleen, Cara, and Joshua (Jessica Riesz); his stepdaughter, Lisa Watkins McCarten (James McCarten); and many cherished grandchildren.

Born in Toronto, Bert was a builder of business and community, of faith and family. He spent formative summers in Temiskaming, where he developed a lifelong sense of wonder in the beauty of the northern wilderness. As a young man, he served in the Canadian military, training with the Black Watch Regiment in Sussex, New Brunswick and Aldershot, Nova Scotia.

Bert overcame significant adversity in his early life, forging a remarkable strength of character, including a deep-rooted perseverance. He will be remembered for his steady, caring presence and the hard-earned wisdom he offered so freely. He relished meaningful conversation—especially about life’s largest questions, ideally over a good cup of coffee—and had a gift for drawing people out, often asking, “How are you really doing?”

His deep Catholic faith guided him throughout his life. It shaped not only what he believed, but how he lived: with a particular tenderness toward those on the margins. He mentored many who struggled with addiction and mental health challenges, walking alongside them with compassion and respect. Guided by the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, Bert celebrated 51 years of sobriety this past year. He remained actively involved in AA throughout his life, sponsoring many men and volunteering even into his final years.

A natural entrepreneur, Bert owned and managed several farmers’ market-style stores across the Niagara Peninsula. For decades, the McGonegal stores were known for their quality and care. He led with purpose and vision, combining a strong work ethic with an instinct for customer service and a genuine investment in the people who worked alongside him. In later years, he moved to Elliot Lake, where he opened a small family business—one that continues today under the leadership of his son, Mark.

Bert had a lifelong passion for sports and fitness and was a devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays. An enthusiastic athlete in his younger years, he played hockey and baseball, and enjoyed running and swimming. He loved Cape Breton fiddle music, the sound of the bagpipes, and a spirited political debate. His family fondly recalls his talent for stirring the pot—a mischievous twinkle always in his eye.

Above all, Bert will be remembered for his deep capacity for love, so often expressed in both words and warm embraces. He had a rare ability to get to the heart of things—and of people. In his later years, a gentleness quietly bloomed in him, enriching how he saw and met the world. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered. His family holds fast to the trust that this is not the end, and that they will meet him again.

A private funeral service will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Operation Smile Canada. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Alternative Funeral Services.