PICTOU - Johnny MacLeod finished up his last day of work at the Shiretown Nursing Home like no other day before Thursday.
The Toney River resident changed out of his work clothes for one final time to celebrate his retirement after 40 years of working at the home for special care.
“It felt good,” MacLeod said of his retirement Thursday. He worked in the custodial staff doing inventory and cleaning duties. His co-workers said he probably only missed three days of work in 40 years and that was because they told him to go home when he was ill.
Residents and staff of the Shiretown Nursing Home held a special afternoon gathering for MacLeod Thursday that included guest appearances by Pictou West MLA Karla MacFarlane and MacLeod Group owner Brian MacLeod.
“Johnny, you are so good and so kind, I hear it all the time when I come in here and in the community,” said MacFarlane who presented MacLeod with a certificate from the House of Assembly as well as Nova Scotia flag. “I want you to know you are adored and loved by all in the community.”
Brian MacLeod also presented him with a certificate of appreciation as well as gift and envelope that the nursing home owner said he could put in the bank or spend as he wished.
“We came to the Shiretown 29 years ago and Johnny was already here 14 years,” said Brian MacLeod. “He is one of the finest people we have gotten to know. Johnny takes you for who you are and accepts you for who you are.”
Brian MacLeod complimented MacLeod’s work ethic and said no ever had to tell MacLeod to do a job right.
“The kind of contribution you made here is incredible,” he said.
Carolyn Zwicker, who was MacLeod’s supervisor for many years at the home, said it is going to be difficult to come to work and not see him.
“He worked hard for 40 years and everyone loved him,” she said.
Connie Baird, business manager for the home, echoed her thoughts saying MacLeod was always positive with the staff and residents.
“He tells you every day how wonderful you look,” she said.
