Cape Breton Deaths March 05, 2011 Saturday There are 7 obituaries published for today. Marie MacLellan June Keefe Mary 'Marilyn' Cameron Sarah Young Rebecca Young Malcolm 'Peter' Macquarrie Martha R. Gillespie ******************************************************************************************************* Marie MacLellan Born in: Christmas Island, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away in: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away on: 04/03/2011 With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Marie MacLellan of Sydney and Christmas Island. Only days short of her 91st birthday, Marie passed away peacefully on March 4, 2011 with loving family by her side. Words cannot express how much she will be missed. Born in Christmas Island in 1920, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Neil and Sarah Agatha (Bryden) MacKenzie. A Registered Nurse from the Class of "44" at St. Joseph's Hospital in Glace Bay, she loved nursing and enjoyed her years on the second floor of St. Rita's Hospital. Working shift work while raising her 12 children, she was known for her kindness, caring, compassion and of course, patience. With retirement, Marie was able to spend time between her homestead in Christmas Island and travelling to visit her many children and grandchildren. Christmas Island nourished her love of nature and was home to her treasured Bras d'Or Lakes - she enjoyed the therapeutic effects of plunging head first into it's cold waters and relaxing with family and friends on the beach. Marie's life has always been guided by her strong Catholic faith, fervent prayer and a belief in the inherent goodness in all people. Her spirituality was instrumental in her dealing courageously with a massive stroke in October 2008. Her faith, humour, and determination have been nothing short of inspirational. Marie's courage, sensitivity and personal strength gave her the ability to handle life's challenges. Marie was a beautiful person - a loving mother, devoted grandmother and beloved friend. She is survived by her brother, Joseph (Lillian) Sydney, sister's-in-law Jean MacKenzie and Margaret MacLellan and daughters Freda, Sharon, Doreen all in Vancouver, Patricia (Nick) Brampton, Mildred, Christmas Island, Lucina (Mike), Halifax, and Delores (George), Sudbury - and sons, Terrence, Maple Ridge, Anthony, Marble Mountain, Duncan John (DJ) Sydney, and Michael (Sheryl), Calgary, along with many loving grandchildren. She is predeceased by the love of her life, the late Duncan John MacLellan of North Side East Bay; her son, John Gary along with her sisters, Mary Ann, Elizabeth, Sr. M. Mildred, Agnes, and brothers Rev. Neil Anthony, Archie Joe, Michael B. and John. Visitation will take place at Chant's Funeral Home, 564 Alexandra St. on Tuesday, March 8, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service to be held in Sydney on Wednesday. Details will be announced in Monday's Cape Breton Post. Burial to take place in Christmas Island. Online condolences may be sent to our webpage at www.chantfuneralhome.com. Through the mercy of God, may her soul and the souls of the faithfully departed, rest in peace. ********************************* June Keefe Born in: New Waterford, Nova Scotia, Canada Born on: 17/06/1921 Passed away in: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away on: 05/03/2011 It is with heavy hearts that we, the family of June Keefe announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at Parkland Shannex (Drummond Hall). Born in New Waterford, N.S. on June 17, 1921, June was the daughter of the late Allan and Mary Agnes Graham (Gracie) and was predeceased by her husband, Neil Lauchlin 'Lauchie' Keefe. She is survived by daughter, Gerri Brown (Buster), Halifax; sons, Roy (Linda), Bridgewater, Allan (Jan), Vancouver, B.C., David (Connie), Bedford, and Ronald, Calgary, Alta; granddaughters, Jessica, Emily (Zach); grandsons, Jeff, John, Jordan, Jeremy and great-grandson, Colin. She is also survived by her brother, Bernard, British Columbia and her sisters, Dollie Simms, Emma Gillis, both of New Waterford and Noreen (Jack) Patriquin, Moncton, N.B. and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, June was predeceased by brothers, Richard, Bobby, Billy, Charles, Doug, Buddy and sisters, Mayme Dielgtens and Gertrude Graham. As our mom, she was a stay at home wife and mother for most of her life, and was adored by her family. She was our family's foundation and loved being around young people and traveled the country to be with them. Over the years, mom opened her home to so many people and treated them all like her very own. One of her passions was to watch sports and to attend the games of her children and grandchildren. Many will remember that mom became an expert in the rules of Box Lacrosse in the 70s and willingly shared her knowledge with any referee that didn't see it her way. Those that knew her, knew that she was always going to the game and that she would make room if they needed a ride. She loved to garden and loved pets, especially Putter, her beloved companion dog. She enjoyed knitting and quilting and was a whiz at puzzles, card playing, and bowled in a league into her eighties. Strong and assured in her opinions, and feisty with wit when she had to be, she was always there with the right advice. We wish to thank the staff at Drummond Hall for the excellent care she received during her final days. Cremation will take place through arrangements with J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax, where visitation will take place 2-5 p.m. Sunday, March 6, 2011, with memorial service in the chapel at 1 p.m. Monday, March 7. Family flowers only. If desired, donations may be made to the N.S. Heart and Stroke Foundation. Please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com. ********************************* Mary 'Marilyn' Cameron Born in: River Ryan, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away in: River Ryan, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away on: 03/03/2011 Marilyn Cameron, age 71, of David Street, River Ryan, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney. Born in River Ryan, she was the daughter of the late Wilfred and Ella (Abraham) MacNeil. Marilyn was a former member of St. Michael's Church, River Ryan. She was very outspoken and you knew where you stood with her; but it was always conveyed in a compassionate manner. Marilyn had a heart of gold and a deep love for her family and grandchildren. Nobody left her house hungry; she was a great cook and loved to bake. Marilyn is survived by her husband of 50 years, Stanley Cameron; one daughter, Tanya Murray, New Waterford; three sons, Donald 'Donnie', Wilfred (Michelle), both in New Waterford and Stan 'Tiggs', Ontario. Also surviving are Marilyn's sister, Ramona Morrison, Fort McMurray, as well as the love of her life, Marilyn's six precious grandchildren, Jessica, Timmy, Brittany, Cameron, Courtney and Alex. She was predeceased by three sisters, Patricia, Isabelle and Sue. There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place under the direction of the V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, New Waterford. A funeral mass will be held at a later date in St. Leonard's Church, followed by interment in St. Michaels Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy for Marilyn, memorial donations in her memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences to the family can be expressed at www.vjmcgillivray.ca. ********************************* Sarah Young Born in: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada Born on: 02/02/1923 Passed away in: Florence, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away on: 03/03/2011 It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, Sarah (Finlayson) Young. Mom passed away peacefully at home after a lengthy illness. Born in Sydney Mines, Sarah was the youngest daughter of the late John and Annie Mae (Robertson) Finlayson. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She was a member of St. Stephen's Parish in Florence. Mom had a strong faith and belief that helped her throughout her illness. In her earlier years, mom worked at the Hamilton Hospital in North Sydney and Harbour View Hospital in Sydney Mines. It was there that she met the love of her life, dad. They married on Sept. 17, 1956, and had four daughters. Mom's life was her family. The door was always open to neighbours and friends, and the teapot was always on. She loved when we brought friends to the house. There was always someone extra at the table, and lots of sleepovers and parties. She had a wonderful sense of humour and enjoyed a good laugh. A great storyteller, we always heard stories, especially about the old days. She loved any music - Scottish and hymns were favourites. She also enjoyed a good step-dance. Mom's greatest joy were her grandchildren. When she was able, she was always involved in their activities. Sarah is survived by her daughters, Roxanne (Jamie) Swain, Florence, Debbie (Paul) Smith, Brantford, Ont., and Ruth (Glen) Gear, Florence; granddaughters, Mayannda and Jamie-Nora Swain, Damara and Kayleigh Gear, and grandson, William Paul Smith. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, William T. (Billy) Young; daughter, Maxine; sisters, Ruth Luker and Nora Quirk and brothers, John, Robert and Walter Finlayson. Visitation for Sarah Young will be held in the J. M. Jobes Funeral Home, 635 Main St., Sydney Mines on Sunday, March 6, 2011, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A celebration of her life will take place Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Stephen's Church, Florence, with Fr. Thomas John officiating. Following the mass, there will be a luncheon at the Florence Legion. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at jmjobesfuneralhome@ns.aliantzinc.ca. "You were our Sunshine. Love you forever Mama." ********************************* Rebecca Young Born in: Margaree , Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away in: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away on: 01/03/2011 Surrounded by her loving family, Rebecca Jane Young, a resident of Harbourstone Enhanced care, Steelworkers Lane, passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2011. Born in Margaree, she was the daughter of the late John and Hilda (Syms) Murphy. Besides her parents, Rebecca was predeceased by her loving husband William; her siblings Mary, May, Bernadette, Alex, John, Michael and Malcolm. Rebecca was a member of Saint Mary's parish, East Bay and a woman of great faith, who said the rosary every evening. Rebecca is survived by her four daughters, Florence (Hugh) Hayes, Bernadette (Wayne) Quinn, Jane (Benny) Lively, Germaine (Donnie) Hayes; three sons, Frank (Diane), John (Mary) and Michael (Darlene). She leaves behind many nieces and nephews, 18 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Rebecca is also survived by her sisters, Irene, Hilda and Ann; brothers, Mose, Benny and Norbert and brother-in-law, Raymond (Susie) Young. Visitation for Mrs. Young will take place on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday at 2:30 p.m. at St. Mary's, East Bay with Rev. Frank Abbass officiating. Burial to take place in the parish cemetery. A special thank you to the staff of Harbourstone Enhanced Care for their exceptional care and compassion given to our mother during her stay. Donations may be made to the Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility or Alzheimer's Association. Online condolences to www.twcurry.com. ********************************** Malcolm 'Peter' Macquarrie Born in: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Passed away in: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada Passed away on: 16/02/2011 Malcolm Fraser 'Peter' Macquarrie, 75, of Westmount, NS, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011, in Kelowna, following a short illness with cancer. Born in Sydney, he was the son of the late Chauncey and Ruth (Percy) Macquarrie. An avid hockey fan, Peter played hockey for Sydney Academy and Mount Allison University. Until recently, he held season tickets for the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles. Peter was always involved in children's activities that often centered around the Gaelic College and his daughters' dance classes and recitals. Peter often spoke fondly of the many people he knew through his work at the community college, in addictions services, and during the many walks he took on the Sydney Boardwalk during his retirement. Surviving are his children, Robert, Vancouver, B.C., Laura, Calgary, Alta. and Karen McCulloch, Kelowna, B.C.; their mother, Charmaine Macquarrie; aunt, Elsey Percy, Sydney; cousins, Patricia (Colford) Foley, Sydney River, Carol Ann Hill, Frenchvale, Alan Laite, Akron, Ohio, Phyllis (Laite) Nuttall, Brantford, Ont., Kenneth MacKenzie, Moncton, N.B. and Heather Hollett, Dartmouth. Besides his parents, Peter was predeceased by his loving cousin, Eileen (Laite) Colford. A memorial service will be held at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Tuesday, March 8 at 10:30 a.m., with Rev. Conrad Edwards officiating. Interment will take place in Hardwood Hill Cemetery. The family is grateful to the staff of Orchard Manor seniors' community in Kelowna for the kindness and care they demonstrated during the last stage of Peter's short illness. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca . ************************************** Martha (Gaul) Gillespie April 6, 1922 - March 1, 2011 GILLESPIE (GAUL), Martha R. - 88, Truro, formerly of Cape Breton, passed away peacefully with family at her side in Colchester Regional Hospital, Truro, on March 1, 2011, after a short illness. Born in Sydney she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Theresa (Wilcox) Gaul. She was a warm loving person who enjoyed entertaining her family and friends. Martha loved to travel and hear of the travels of her family and friends. She lived for her family and was proud of the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. Martha was always involved in the many communities in which she lived and would attend church faithfully. She will be sadly missed by her family. Frank (Ben), Vancouver; Terry (Pam), Lansdale, Penn.; Cathy (Jim) Smyth, Moncton; Shawn (Martha), Truro; grandchildren Joseph, Brendan, Martha, Colin, Matthew, Sean and Michael; great grandchildren Sarah, Mia, Cole, Charlie, Makayla, Victor and Martha. She was predeceased by her husband Ray, brothers Frank, Patrick and John, sisters Helen Nearing and Theresa in childhood. Cremation has taken place. A funeral mass will be held 11am, Saturday, March 5, 2011, in St. Bernard's Roman Catholic Church, Enfield, Father Andrew Rembarczyk officiating. Interment will be in the St. Bernard's Cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association. You are invited to visit Martha's Everlasting Memorial at:... www. ettingerfuneralhome.com Arrangements under the direction of Ettinger Funeral Home, Shubenacadie, NS. ******************************************************************************************************* Cape Breton Deaths courtesy of CBGHA http://www.cbgen.org