Louisbourg, NS
November 26, 2024
It is with unimaginable sorrow that we, the family, of Joseph Michael Mahon announce his passing on November 26th at the age of 35 years old.
On the same day he entered the world, Joe left us. A birthday cake waiting to welcome him into another year, was never sliced. Joe grew up in Mira and moved to Louisbourg to be close to family and new friends.
As a child, he had a flair for sports, friendship and technology. He spent his childhood years driving from rink to rink with his mother, re-building computers, and skateboarding with his close knit buddies, each of whom he adored. Joe had a streak for adventure and could be found riding his bike around town, or doing anything that might require getting a couple of stitches.
As he grew into a young man, he attended Riverview High School and made lifelong friendships that he held dear until his last day. Playing hockey for the Riverview Redmen and winning the Red Cup tournament were highlights that topped the list. Joe trained as a plumber at NSCC, and worked with his father and brother, who he looked up to endlessly. He later returned to college to become a Journeyperson Electrician. He worked for various companies both in western Canada and in Cape Breton; enjoying them all.
The best thing about Joe was his easy, fun-loving nature. His personality was the shining jewel that made Joe, Joe. He made everyone he met feel seen, important, and he genuinely loved connecting with people. He always said his favourite place to meet a new friend was outside any venue in Cape Breton over a cigarette. In 2016, Joe took a leap of faith and applied to university to become an electrical engineer. His passion for the field of electrical was evident.
While others might spend their evenings curled up with a good book, or other hobbies, Joe could always be found in front of his tablet working on electrical designs, “just for fun.” It was a huge accomplishment when he graduated from CBU, than Dalhousie University with his electrical engineering degree in 2020 – a career he truly loved.
On a chilly November evening in 2012, Joe attended a friend’s wedding and spotted a blonde haired girl from across the room. In true gentleman fashion, he “wooed” her the best way he knew how; with a Facebook friend request. Joe and his “doll,” Kelsea spent 12 happy, fun-loving years together traveling, renovating homes, spending time with friends, and enjoying life’s quiet moments together on the Mira River. On the very same date they met on that chilly November evening, they married at home in their living room ten years later. With only a few family members in attendance, and a whole lot of love.
Joe is survived by his loving parents, Bernie and Peggy (Mama Bear) Mahon. They will forever hold close the memories and joy he brought into their lives in his thirty-five years. He is also survived by his soul mate wife, Kelsea MacNeil, who laughed at all his jokes, and thought he was the brightest light in every room. He also leaves behind his “son” of the goldendoodle variety, Duncan.
Joe is survived by his big brother Justin, who he deeply admired and always found time to tease each other every chance they got. Joe will be sadly missed by his nephews, Owen, godson Jaxon, Kaiden & Luke; who all thought the world of him. He just loved watching them grow. Joe is survived by his second mom, godmother, and back scratcher queen, Yvonne Pitcher. He also leaves behind his special brother, Dalton Lahey, who has been his best friend, rock, and unwavering support system since elementary school.
Joe will be missed by his goddaughter, Rosie Lynn, whom he adored. Also left to mourn Joe’s untimely passing are his many wonderful aunts, uncles, cousins, in law’s the MacNeil/MacLean family, and neighbors. Joe was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his uncle Pat Mahon, uncle Joey Pitcher, friend Tyler MacEachern, an two best buddies – his dogs, Champ & Monty.
Joe could turn his hand to anything. He was handy, resourceful, and brilliantly smart. He was funny, caring, and loved a chance to get together and have a beer with a friend.
In recent years, he struggled with his mental health and never wanted to burden anyone, because “everyone has their problems.” A lesson can be learned to check in on your friends and family and really find out how they are. Life is precious, but it can be difficult, too.
We will remember Joe always with fondness and love – and the biggest smile in the room.
We raise a glass to one of the best, gone way to soon. “Up the Mira, Down the Gut.”
There will be a celebration of life for Joe Mahon on Wednesday December 4th at the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre at 4pm in the Main Hall. A reception will follow.
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