Obituaries

Rod Doiron, a gifted magician, long time supporter and alumnus of St. Mary’s University, passionate and proud member of the Liberal Party, devoted Roman Catholic, and a true friend to many, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2021 at his home. He was 67 years old. Rod was the only child of Alphonse and Catherine (nee MacNeil) Doiron. He lived his entire life in Halifax, a city he loved. After graduating from St. Pat’s High School (Class of 1971), he attended St. Mary’s University earning bachelors’ degrees in both Arts (Class of 1974) and Commerce (Class of 1976). While at St. Mary’s, he gave generously of his time and talents, serving in a variety of positions on students’ council and other bodies. Following graduation, he pursued a career in fundraising for non-profit organizations. Eclectic is perhaps the best way to describe Rod’s many interests. He was naturally curious and when that curiosity matured into an interest, his attention focused and he pursued that interest with single minded devotion. He became intrigued by graphology and would happily analyze your handwriting. He developed an interest in photography and became an accomplished amateur photographer. He was often engaged to photograph various celebrations for his many friends. Rod was a long-time member of Toast Masters, a sought-after master of ceremonies, and taught the art of public speaking. Rod was not a gifted athlete (he might be the first to tell you that) but he developed an interest in racquetball. He studied the game, mastered the skills, and played regularly and very well for many years. Although he did not water ski, Rod became curious about the sport. That curiosity grew into an interest and that interest became a passion. The result was countless hours volunteering at events both locally and nationally, in addition to serving on all manner of committees and boards dedicated to advancing the sport. And then there was politics. Rod may not have been born a Liberal but, if not, he became one shortly after. He remained committed to the Party until his death. He volunteered in every campaign both Provincial and Federal in the past 50 years, canvassing door to door for candidates, manning telephones, and assisting where ever there was a need. Music caught Rod’s attention in the mid 1970s. He didn’t play an instrument nor did he sing. What he did do was support and enjoy local musicians, particularly those who played Celtic music. Rod was a wonderful magician. Magic was the joy of his life. His stage show afforded him a chance to demonstrate his wonderful sense of humor and dazzle and confound his audiences with his illusions. His close-up magic was, well, magical. In typical Rod fashion, after mastering many aspects of the craft, he gave back to those aspiring to do likewise. He spent hours teaching effects to young magicians. And finally, there was friendship. Those who had the good fortune to be counted among Rod’s friends knew true friendship. He was loyal and generous, and cared profoundly for his friends. With his passing the lives of his friends are a little less full. He will be missed. Rod was predeceased by his parents and survived by his cousins (all of Cape Breton): Ronnie Beaton and his wife Alice, Dougie Beaton, Collie Beaton, and Marlene (Beaton) and her husband Angus Boyd, and their families. Rod had many friends but special mention needs to be made of three of them: Cindy Moss for her enduring friendship and support; Dr. Jonathan Gale for his friendship and achievements in which Rod took great pride; and his neighbours Janet and Francis Vosman for their kindness and caring over the years. If you feel moved to give in Rod’s memory please consider St. Mary’s University. Rod’s faith was important to him. He was a member of the congregation at Saint Mary’s Cathedral Basilica for many years and served as a reader during much of that time. Due to COVID 19 restrictions, a private family funeral will be held at a later date.