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Apr 6, 2018
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Ryan MacDonald on April 6, 2018 at the age of 45. Fittingly, Ryan passed away in the company of his two beloved dogs, Hunter and Mocha, in the rugged wilderness of coastal British Columbia, where he retreated often to seek comfort, peace, and solace.

Ryan will be deeply missed by his loved ones including Matthew and Abigail MacDonald, Pauline Johnson and Jory Knapton, Diane MacDonald, Rod MacDonald, Kristin (Greg) Sowak, Jennifer (Kris) Almgren, Brad (Erin) MacDonald and Angela MacDonald. He leaves behind many more family and friends that will hold him close in their hearts.

More than anything, Ryan will be warmly remembered for his keen sense of humour and sly grin. He loved to make people laugh and to play jokes on those he cared about most. Humour was one of Ryan's favourite ways to communicate.

He will also remain in our memories as a passionate outdoorsman who sought nature and adventure at every turn. He adored the rustic beauty of Port Hardy's forests, mountains, and valleys, and these served as perfect companions for his bold, adventurous spirit.

With his father and grandfather as role models, Ryan was introduced to aircraft and aviation as a young child, and this blossomed into his other major passion. Ryan loved to fly, and he spent many years as a pilot with Pacific Coastal Airlines, Wilderness Seaplanes and AirCab. He will be remembered as a talented, dedicated, well-respected and admired pilot who always treated clients like family.

When Ryan went missing in early April, the community of Port Hardy answered the call. Ryan's loved ones deeply appreciate the amazing community support and wish to thank everyone involved for contributing to the search effort while putting their own lives on hold. Thank you to Campbell River Search and Rescue and all of the volunteers, family, friends, and RCMP who tirelessly tried to bring Ryan home. Thank you also to the people who kindly rescued Hunter and Mocha, delivering them home alive and well.

Donations can be made online to Campbell River Search and Rescue: http://www. crsar.ca/

A celebration of Ryan's life will be held at Blueberry Hall, Range Road 15, north of Hwy 16A, Stony Plain, AB on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at 2:00 pm.

An additional celebration of Ryan's life will be held in Port Hardy with Wilderness Seaplanes in September of 2018, final date to be announced. 



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