Obituary of David Baxter McGinnis
McGINNIS, David Baxter (1937-2017) – Life’s final journey for David ended at the age of 80 on August 29, 2017 at the South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater with his grieving family by his side. He was born in Fredericton, NB on February 25, 1937 and was the son of the late Gerald and Doris (Baxter) McGinnis.
David joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the age of 18 and retired as Sergeant after 25 years of service. While with the force, he served areas of Halifax, Windsor, Yarmouth, Dartmouth and Sydney, as well as Ottawa Headquarters and Bedford Highway Patrol. Following retirement, he took on the role of Chief of Police in Bridgewater, NS being the first RCMP member to move to a municipal force in the province. He served as President of Nova Scotia Police Chiefs Association and was a Board Member of the Canadian Association of Police Chiefs. He retired from Bridgewater Police Department after 19 years, completing a 44 year career in policing. David and Angela built a beautiful summer cottage as a retirement project, with the help from their son Christopher, which was enjoyed by the whole family and left us with many fond memories. He pursued many hobbies including wood carving, stained glass, jewelry making, and was an avid reader and follower of American politics. He especially enjoyed his motorcycle rides on the South Shore country roads and took great pride in shining his bike when he returned home. Dave was always kind and generous to others. He loved his family and especially the accomplishments of his 10 grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Angela (MacMullen); his children, Kim (Gilbert) Miner, Moncton and their three daughters, Brogan, Savannah and Addison; Christopher (Andrea Blenus), Bridgewater and their 2 daughters, Laura and Lindsey; Jill (Sean) Darrah, Saint John and their 2 sons, William and Jay; Kevin (Lana Keddy), Bridgewater and his 3 sons, Joseph, Michael and Taylor. Dave will be missed by his two sisters, Anne (Ed) Dunphy, Mary Matchett; brothers-in-law, Scott (Marcy) MacMullen, Craig (Rosalind) MacMullen, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; brothers-in-law, Neil MacMullen, Bob Matchett. There is a huge void in our family and he will be truly missed by all of us who loved him so much, along with the many friends and neighbours. Special thanks to Dr. Everett Weagle and all the nurses who cared for him at South Shore Regional Hospital and palliative care (Kim and Heather).
Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm and 7-9 p.m., Saturday, September 2 in Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater (corner of Phoenix and York Streets) and where the service to celebrate David’s life will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, September 3, followed by a reception at the Bridgewater Legion. Rev. Willis Ott officiating. Private family interment will be at Brookside Cemetery Columbarium, Bridgewater. Family flowers only, donations may be made to the Sergeant Derek C. Burkholder Memorial Trust Scholarship, Health Services Foundation of the South Shore or charity of choice. On-line condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.
