Donald Stewart MacNeil was born in Little Harbour on November 20th, 1920. He received his education at New Glasgow High School and Dalhousie University before he went overseas to serve with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. In honour of his service he was awarded the Air Force Flying Cross. Upon returning home from the war he kept very busy with varied work. He formed the Gulf Flying Service to provide local and regional service, such as mail service to Pictou Island. He was employed for many years with Fraser and Hoyt Insurance and Real Estate. He served as the commanding officer and flying instructor of Air Cadet Squadron no. 397 of Trenton for 17 years.
In addition to his employment he was also an active personality in the community. He was a member of the Air Force Club, the Royal Canadian Legion, the New Glasgow City Club, a former President of the Saint Andrews Society, and was one of the founding members of the Junior Braemar which later became known as the Festival of Tartans.
Donald passed away in Aberdeen Regional Hospital on March 24th, 2006. He was the husband of Mardy MacNeil and the father of two sons and grandfather of two. The Royal Canadian Legion branch #34 and the Royal Canadian Air Force Association were on hand at the funeral to pay respects.