Cape Breton Deaths May 13, 2011 Friday There are 8 obituaries published for today. Wells Woodill Alexander 'Pat' W. Thorne Violet 'Oly' Donato Gary Pynn Ellen Snow (Penney) John Peter MacDonald Stephen Cecil 'Bear' Allison James E. Caldwell ******************************************************************************************************* Wells Woodill Born In: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away In: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 10/05/2011 Wells Benjamin Woodill, 87, of Halifax, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2011, at home with his loving family by his side. Born in Sydney, N.S., he was the son of Wells Woodill Sr. and Margaret E. (MacDonald) Woodill and husband of Maisie (Andrews) Woodill. Wells enjoyed fishing, hunting and sailing, especially with his four sons. He loved to play tarabish and cribbage, excelling in both. His beautiful garden was his most recent passion and he spent many hours nurturing it. He was past commodore of the Armdale Yacht Club. Up until his last days, Wells maintained his wonderful sense of humour and kept everyone entertained with his jokes, ditties and "tall" tales. His family and friends were his life's treasures. He served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Second World War and after the war he worked for the Best Yeast Company as sales manager. He spent the last 30 years of his working career as Atlantic manager for Hobart Manufacturing Co. Wells is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Maisie; daughter, Gloria Connors (Neil), Halifax; and sons, Raymond (Pat), Riverview, N.B., Gregory (Mary), David (Angie) and Richard (Debbie), all of Halifax; son-in-law, John (Marilyn) McKinney, Gagetown, N.B.; brother, Douglas (Norma), Marion Bridge, N.S.; and sister, Bibbi (Gordon), Sydney, N.S.; grandchildren, Darin and Tim Connors, Chris, Sean, Matthew, Kathleen, Andrew, Jennifer, Johnathan and Cristina Woodill, Eric, June and Joy McKinney as well as many great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by daughter, Marilyn McKinney, granddaughter, Gillian Connors, grandson, Wells McKinney and sister, Eilean (Harry) LeVatte. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Deanna Swinamer, We Care caregivers, VON, Red Cross and the Department of Veterans Affairs, for all their help and support. Funeral service will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax, Monday, May 16, 2011, at 2 p.m. with reception following. Cremation has taken place. Burial service will be held in Sydney, N.S., at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Wells' memory to the Canadian Cancer Society. Please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com. ************************************ Alexander 'Pat' W. Thorne Passed Away In: Southampton, Ontario, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 Pat Thorne passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, at his residence in Southampton, Ont. Pat was the beloved husband of Diane Thorne (nee Smith), Southampton. Dear father of Timothy and his wife Janette, Southampton, Ruby, Patricia, Kenneth and Patrick. Also survived by his grandchildren, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews and by his many friends of his church and community. Predeceased by his parents, Albert and Jessie Thorne, by his three sisters, Annie, Hazel, Daisy and by his six brothers, Gordon, Gilbert, Edward, Albert, Arthur and George. Pat, a veteran of the Second World War, was a distinguished hobby boatbuilder, painter, carver, collector and a quiet supporter of those less privileged. Visitation from the Eagleson Funeral Home, Southampton on Sunday, May 15, 2011, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A funeral service to celebrate the life of Alexander 'Pat' Thorne will be conducted at the Salvation Army Temple, Wen Sound, Monday, May 16, 2011, at 11 a.m. A time of fellowship and sharing will follow the service. Interment will take place at 2:30 p.m. that day, Southampton Cemetery. Expressions of remembrance to the Salvation Army, Owen Sound, may be made through the funeral home at 1-800-858-9544. Southampton legion branch 155 will host a memorial service at the funeral home, Sunday evening at 7 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded to the family through www.eaglesonfuneralhome.com. ************************************ Violet 'Oly' Donato Born In: Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada Born On: 21/04/1926 Passed Away In: North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the death of a dear, sweet wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Violet Donato, on May 11, 2011, at the Northside General Hospital. Born in Glace Bay on April 21, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Alex and Jemimah (MacKeigan) Lynk and stepfather, Jimmy Boyd. She was a member of St. Pius X parish, Sydney Mines. Our mother was a wonderful, loving person who touched everyone she met. She was in different clubs and organizations, but the best thing she did in life was that of a good mother. Mom enjoyed every Christmas with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She always made it special. Everyone loved Christmas at Nanny Oly's. Violet is survived by her husband of 63 years, Frank Donato; and her five children, Judy (Aubrey), Sis, Joe (Joanne), Frankie (Sue) and Jake. She also had seven grandchildren, Harold, Vance, Judy, Jimmy, Tanya, Robin and Tara; and eight great-grandchildren, who all loved their Nan very much. She is also survived by one sister, Emma Krvzanowski, St. Catharines; a brother, Danny Boyd (Patsy), London, Ont.; and many special nieces and nephews who were very close to her. Besides her parents, Violet was predeceased by her grandson, Josh Donato, sisters, Lee Blackie and Henrietta and brothers Bob, Billy, Colin, Fred, Jake and Jim. A heartfelt thanks to Dr. Doug Kohlsmith for not only taking care of our Mom's health needs for a number of years, but for always treating her with dignity and compassion. A special thanks to the nurses on 5th floor at the Northside General for looking after our Mom's needs with such kindness and professionalism, and to all staff who helped our family at our time of need. Thank you to J.M. Jobes Funeral Home for their help to make things easier. There will be no visitation. A private family burial will take place at a later date. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at jmjobesfuneralhome@ns.aliantzinc.ca. A Mother's love is something that no one can explain, It is made of deep devotion, sacrifice and pain, It is endless, unselfish and enduring. Thanks for being our Mom. We Love You! ************************************* Gary Pynn Born In: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away In: South Bar, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 We regret to announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, Gary Pynn, at home, on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. Born in Sydney to the late Lloyd and Marie (Russell) Pynn. Gary was employed by Wilsons' Collision in Bridgeport. He was happiest at home with his family, working in his backyard, or passing time with his good friend, Doug Aucoin. Gary is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Isobel (Collins); his children, Heather (Steven Fortune), Sydney, Gregory (Susan), Montreal, Colleen (Justin Bouchard), Moncton; his grandchildren, Gregory Gilmet and Benjamin Bouchard; brother, Raymond (Audrey); sisters, Marilyn (Joe) Deveaux, Vera (Real) Morency, and Debbie Pynn-McRae; mother-in-law, Marguerite 'Monnie' Collins; brothers-in-law, Charles (Gail) Collins, and Jack (Wanda) Collins; sister-in-law, Colleen Collins; and loving nieces and nephews. Gary was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Marie (Russell) Pynn, his sister, Isobel (in infancy) and father-in-law, Harry Collins. A devoted husband, proud father and dependable friend, Gary touched the lives of many. His memory will forever be in our hearts. Visitation will take place at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Friday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday, 4 p.m., with Capt. Felipe Vega officiating. Interment in Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca. *********************************** Ellen Snow (Penney) Born In: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away In: Bras d'Or, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 Ellen passed peacefully Wednesday, May 11, 2011, at Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility in Sydney, N.S., after a lengthy illness. Born in Sydney Mines, she was the second daughter of the late George Penney and Ellen Magdalene Penney (LeBlanc). Ellen was a gentle soul who enjoyed her life as a loving wife to her husband Arnold and a devoted mother to her two children. In their younger years, Ellen and Arnold travelled extensively with their children in Europe and throughout Canada, opening their eyes to the world outside of their beloved Cape Breton home. When the many charms of the island brought them back to settle once again in Cape Breton, Ellen became the epitome of a wonderful neighbour and was a friend to all who knew her. With a hot pot of tea on the stove, Ellen was well known for offering her warm hospitality to any and all, who might stop in. She was an active member of the Catholic Women's League, a strong supporter of her local parish and was sustained by her strong faith throughout her life. Over the years, Ellen became a talented seamstress who will be fondly remembered for her beautiful quilts that now adorn the beds of her extended family. She is survived by her children, Joseph Charles (Laurie), Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Germaine Marie (Robie MacDonald), Shubenacadie, N.S.; her grandson, Christopher Patrick (Lisa) and great-grandchildren, Nicholas Joseph and Richard Alexander. She will also be dearly missed by Robie's daughters, Heather Lynn MacDonald and Penney Lee Gilbert and her children Kathryn and Glenn. She is also survived by sisters, Vera Anna Kuchurean, twins Dora Matilda Epifano and Mary Angela (Angie) Dunphy; and brother, Simon Augustus (Tim) Penney. She was predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Arnold Wellington Snow, her sisters, Mary Viola Bond and Anna Rita Hawkins and brothers, Jerome Frederick Penney, John Charles Penney, Joseph Owen Penney and Isiah (Cy) Penney. Ellen's family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Wentworth Court, Harbourstone for their care and consideration over the years, with a special hug to "Sweet" Jane for her kindness, compassion and loving care. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Francis Funeral Home, Main Street, Sydney Mines, and a private celebration of Ellen's life will be held at a later date. Donations in Ellen's memory may be made to a deserving charity of your choosing *********************************** John Peter MacDonald Born In: St. Ann's, Nova Scotia, Canada Born On: 09/09/1919 Passed Away In: Baddeck, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 It is with great sadness that Elva and Beverley announce the passing of their father, John Peter MacDonald, Baddeck, N.S., on May 11, 2011. Dad was born Sept. 9, 1919, to the late Dan P. and Katie (Peterson) MacDonald, Quarry, St. Ann's, N.S. He served with the Cape Breton Highlanders in Italy, Belgium, Holland, Germany, France and England, from 1941-45. He was awarded numerous medals and meritorious awards for acts performed during his tour of duty. He married Annie Elizabeth MacDonald upon his return to Baddeck and together they raised two daughters. He was an autobody repairman by trade. For over 60 years, Dad was a very proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion and often gave Remembrance Day talks to school children. He worked several years as a bartender and held many executive positions within branch 53. He was also a member of the Baddeck Volunteer Fire Department and over the span of his 91 years he enjoyed fishing, bowling, prompting, square dancing, playing cards and listening to fiddle music. Dad and his friend Jessie MacKenzie enjoyed cribbage tournaments at the legion and the local summer ceilidhs. John is survived by daughters, Elva (Antonio) Areny and Beverley (Jess) Kerr; brother, George (Hettie); and sister, Betty (Hubert) Ross. 'Grampie' will always be remembered and loved by grandchildren, Sylvia and Elena Areny and Shannan (Stewart), Dereck (Shannon) and Monica Kerr. He will be greatly missed by great-grandchildren, Alexander and Kieran Kerr-Shaw and Kadin Areny, who were a great source of entertainment in his later years; and by step-great-grandchildren, Kathryn and Devin Shaw and many nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Annie, brothers, Duncan, and Daniel John 'DJ' (Phyllis), sisters, Maye (Donald R.) MacDonald and Margaret (Douglas) MacLeod. The body is resting at MacAskill Funeral Home, Baddeck, with visitation Saturday, May 14 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 15 at Knox Presbyterian Church with Rev. Cameron Brett officiating. Reception to follow in the church hall. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to eareny@hotmail.com, j.kerr@ns.sympatico.ca or mailed to Box 81, Baddeck, N.S., BOE 1B0. ************************************* Stephen Cecil 'Bear' Allison Born In: Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada Born On: 19/08/1945 Passed Away In: Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 02/05/2011 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Stephen Cecil 'Bear' Allison, 65, on Monday, May 2, 2011, at the Glace Bay Hospital after a short battle with cancer. Born Aug. 19, 1945, in Glace Bay, he was the son of the late Stephen and Lillian (Kelly) Allison. He was retired from Devco after 37 years of service. He was an avid sportsfan and enjoyed watching curling. Stephen is survived by sons, Kevin (Gwen), New Waterford, Ray, Glace Bay; daughters, Valerie and Lisa, Prince George, B.C.; siblings, Jim (Gail) and Cyndie (Troy); and 12 grandchildren. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth 'Tony' Sharpe. In honoring Stephen's wishes, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve St., Glace Bay. A graveside service will be held Sunday, May 15 at 1:30 p.m., in St. Anne's Cemetery, Glace Bay with Fr. John McIntyre officiating. As an expression of sympathy for Stephen, memorial donations in his memory made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences to the Allison family are available through www.vjmcgillivray.ca ************************************** James E. Caldwell Born In: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada Born On: 05/04/1930 Passed Away In: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed Away On: 11/05/2011 It is with sadness that the family of James Emerson Caldwell announce his sudden passing on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, after a long and courageous battle with myasthenia gravis. Born April 5, 1930, he was the son of the late Maj. Archibald and Marguerite (MacLeod) Caldwell of Sydney Mines. A graduate of Sydney Mines high, he worked for 11 years for Canada Packers before becoming administrator of Harbour View Hospital. He worked a total of 35 years in hospital administration. Jim was an elder of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. He served in many capacities, including member of the Board of Managers, choir member, Sunday School superintendent, and representative elder. He also served a three-year term on the Administrative Council of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Joan (MacKenzie) Caldwell; sons, Norman, Kenneth (wife Valerie and sons Jonathon, Tyler and Aaron) and Peter (wife Avril); daughters, Barbara (husband Michael and children Keir, Jared and Tierney McIsaac) and Margie Lou (children Joannah Unsworth; Shaemus and Kristianne Campbell, and their father Jimmie Campbell); and great-granddaughters, Breagh, Sadie and Alexandra. He is also survived by his brother, Rev. Malcolm (Lois) Caldwell; sisters-in-law, Jean Caldwell and Bibsey MacKeigan; and brother-in-law, Dr. Wylie Smith. Jim was predeceased by his brothers, Lloyd, George (June) and Rev. Quincy, and a sister, Georgia in infancy. Visitation for Jim Caldwell will be held in the J.M. Jobes Funeral Home, 635 Main St., Sydney Mines, on Friday, May 13 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. in St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Sydney Mines, with Rev. Marion Barclay MacKay officiating. Reception to follow. Donations in Jim's memory may be made to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Muscular Dystrophy Canada, or to a charity of one's choice. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the staff of Harbourstone Enhanced Care - Steelworkers' Lane for the outstanding care shown to Jim over the last three years. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at jmjobesfuneralhome@ns.aliantzinc.ca. ******************************************************************************************************* Cape Breton Deaths courtesy of CBGHA http://www.cbgen.org