Cape Breton Deaths courtesy of CAPE BRETON GENEALOGY & HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE - <http://www.cbgen.org/>www.cbgen.org NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Cape Breton Deaths February 28, 2014 Friday There were 7 obituaries published today Gordon Alberte Morinet - 76 yrs Shirley Elaine (MacLeod) McDonald - 86 yrs Douglas John “Doug” MacLeod - 81 yrs James Joseph “JJ” MacNeil - 83 yrs Grace J. Mercer - 64 yrs Theresa Mary Digero - 83 yrs Marilyn Jane (Sobol) Morrison - 72 yrs Gordon Albert Morinet Born: October 28th, 1937 Passed on: February 27th, 2014 We the family of Gordon Morinet, with great sorrow, announce his passing on Feb. 27, 2014, after a brief battle with cancer. Gordon was born the son of the late Albert and Geraldine (Quain) Morinet, on Oct. 28, 1937. Loving grandson of the Late Archie and Sarah Mercer and Agnes (Bernie) Nearing and loving son-in-law of the late Elizabeth and John MacMullin. He is survived by wife, Irene (MacMullin) Morinet; daughter, Gwen (Alan) McFarlane; son, Todd (Kim) Morinet and lovingly remembered by five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters, Aleta (Carl) Spampinato, Bernita (Lindsay) Simms and brother, Johnny. As well as brothers-in-law, John MacMullin, James (Joanne) MacMullin, Melvin (Sharon) MacMullin and sister-in-law, Charlotte (Donny) St. John. Gordon was also predeceased by his son, Gordon in 1993, sister, June (Dave) Hanna and sister-in-law, Arlene Morinet. Visitation will take place today, Friday, Feb. 28, from 7-9 p.m. at Francis Funeral Home, Sydney Mines. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, March 1 at 1 p.m. at Holy Family Parish, Main Street, Sydney Mines. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gordon’s memory may be made to the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton, the VON or a charity of choice. Funeral arrangments have been entrusted to the care and direction of Francis Funeral Home. Sydney Mines. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to Gordon’s Family by visiting www.francisfuneralhome.ca. "It is with great sadness we bid farewell to a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother." Shirley McDonald Born In: Glace Bay Born: March 24th, 1928 Passed in: Glace Bay Passed on: February 27th, 2014 Our beloved mother, Shirley Elaine McDonald of 52 Cooling St, Glace Bay, passed away on Feb. 27, 2014, in the An Cala Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital surrounded by her heart broken family. Our mother was born on March 24, 1928, in Glace Bay, the youngest daughter of the late Duncan and Jennie (Ferguson) MacLeod. Mom was a dedicated health-care professional working at the TB Annex in the General Hospital, the old New Waterford hospital and the Glace Bay Medical Clinic. Her five children attended her graduation from St Rita’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1968. They applauded her registered nurse designation as a major accomplishment in her life. Her nursing career continued at St Rita’s and then she retired as an occupational nurse from the Cape Breton Development Corporation’s Lingan Mine. Mourning her loss are her grieving children, Linda (David) MacKay, Glace Bay, Diane (Glenn) White, New Waterford, Elizabeth (Darrell) MacInnis, Glace Bay, Kenneth (Sylvia) McDonald, Sudbury, Janet (Chris) Downs, Kindred, North Dakota. Nanny leaves her cherished grandchildren to treasure their memories of her: Michelle (Karl) Curtis, Lingan, Curtis (Vanda Roppa) White, Keswick, Ont., Kendra (Kenny) Baldwin, New Waterford, Dr. Rose MacKay (John Fraser), Sydney, Blair (Brigitte) MacKay, Barrie, Ont., Melissa (Brian) Reuther, Glace Bay, Nicholas (Cheryl Horne) MacInnis, Grand Prairie, Daniel (Fallon Boland) MacInnis, Glace Bay, Jennifer (Ryan) Marshall, Espanola, Ont., Macy Downs, Kindred and Matthew McDonald, Sudbury. Her great-grandchildren have had the pleasure of sharing wonderful times with her: Sophie, Harrison and Curtis, Lingan, Francesco and Vanessa Gioia, Keswick, Drew Baldwin, New Waterford, Chase and Josee MacKay, Barrie, Xander and Kingston Reuther, Glace Bay, Jacob MacInnis and Keagan Archibald, Grand Prairie, and Nathan MacInnis, Glace Bay. Her sister, Anna MacLeod, Glace Bay; sisters-in-law, Joan (the late Edward) MacLeod, Glace Bay, Dolores (Roy) MacLean, Sydney, and Merle (the late Hazen) McDonald, Toronto, also survived our mother. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Besides her parents, mom was predeceased by her doting husband, Kenny (Story) McDonald in 2005, sisters, Aileen (the late Alan) MacDonald, Middleton, N.S., Pearl (the late Roland) Fell, Guelph, Ont., her only brother, Edward MacLeod, Glace Bay, and three sons, including twin boys in infancy. A special thank you to her family physician, Dr. David Ley who always took such good care of her, the staff at the ERS in Glace Bay and Sydney, the An Cala Unit at the CBRH and the 3rd floor at the Glace Bay Hospital. A heartfelt thank you to the VON of C.B. and the New Waterford Homemakers who allowed mom to stay in her home as long as possible. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Curry’s Funeral Home, Glace Bay. A celebration of our mother’s life will take place at a later date. Donations to the Palliative Care Society of C.B. in her memory would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.jmcurryfuneralhome.com. Douglas MacLeod Born: February 28th, 1932 Passed in: Asby Bay Passed on: February 25th, 2014 It is with great sadness that the family of Douglas John MacLeod announce his sudden passing on Feb. 25, 2014, at his home in Aspy Bay, Cape Breton. Born Feb. 28, 1932, Doug was the son of the late Murdock and Jennie (Burton) MacLeod. Working for Majestic Pipeline for many years, he travelled to many foreign countries, including India and Japan. He was most recently employed with Alva Construction, Antigonish, retiring in 2004. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, delighting in bringing home partridge for a delicious partridge stew. His desire for perfection was evident in his perfectly manicured lawn in the spring, summer and fall, and meticulously plowed driveway in the winter. Loyalty to his neighbours was obvious in the numerous times he plowed them out, looked after their cats and dogs, or offered a hand with the renovation of a home. It is certain that his daily visits to some wonderful friends will be missed. In addition to his parents, Murdock and Jennie, Doug was also predeceased by his loving companion, Mary (Curtis) MacDonald, sister, Annabelle, brother, Malcolm (Mackie) MacLeod. Left to mourn his loss are Mary’s daughter, Bonnie Jean (Paul) MacDonald who always held a special spot in Doug’s heart, as have his ‘chosen grandsons’, Aaron and Brendan, all of Antigonish. Their hearts are heavy as they remember the love he gave to them over the years. Also left to mourn his loss are his siblings, Catherine, Highland Manor, Neils’ Harbour, Donald (Ruth), Murdena Podanovitch (David), Cape North. Remains have been cremated as per Doug’s wishes. There will be no visitation or funeral. Interment will be held later in the spring at MacPherson’s Cemetery, Dingwall, Cape Breton. Arrangements are entrusted to Fillmore & Whitman Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to Highland Manor, Neil’s Harbour, MacPherson’s Cemetery or charity of choice. James 'JJ' MacNeil Born In: Johnstown Born: October 12th, 1930 Passed in: Sydney Forks Passed on: February 26th, 2014 It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James Joseph MacNeil which took place on Feb. 26, 2014. Born in Johnstown on Oct. 12, 1930, to parents Roderick and Cecilia (Gillis) MacNeil, JJ or Jim as he was also known was raised in Soldiers Cove, Richmond County. It was during his childhood and on his family homestead that he developed his work ethic and shaped the foundation of his character. Jim married Mary G. MacDonald of Boisdale and they settled in Sydney Forks. Together they raised three children, son Liam (Susan), Hinton, Alberta; daughters, Melissa, Dutch Brook, and Angela, Sydney Forks. Also surviving Jim are his sisters, Sadie (Tom) Brady, Burlington, Ontario; Helen (Jack) Bresnehan, Brantford, Ontario, Marie (Furzer) Elliot, Montreal, Quebec; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and members of the MacLean, MacDonald and MacNeil families. Jim’s lifelong friends were especially loyal, particularly Joseph Nugent. Educated at St. Peter’s High School, Jim acquired a passion for learning which would follow him through life. His degrees in science and education were earned at St. FX and Loyola Universities. He studied engineering at the NS Institute of Technology (NSIT). He was also part of the original staff of the Eastern Institute of Technology, which now exists as Cape Breton University. While teaching in the math department at the former University College of Cape Breton, Jim co-founded the Alternate Energy Society, with a vision of developing wind energy and maintained that one day windmills would be seen on the grounds of the college. Jim was steadfast in his faith and commitment to his family. This extended into his volunteering for most any job, regardless of size. Jim had a love of music which enriched his life and he spent many years as a member of the Cape Breton Fiddlers Association, the Cape Breton Gaelic Choir and the Golden Tones. In his retirement years, Jim re-engaged with the Gaelic Language and became a fluent speaker. His particular interest during this time was in the Gaelic songs of Richmond County. Visitation for the late Mr. MacNeil will take place on Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, from 6-9 p.m. at T.W.Curry Parkview Chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Fatima Church with Rev. Duaine Devereaux officiating. A family burial will take place at a later date. Donations may be made to CBU Alumni Association or the Youth Gaelic Immersion Program of the Colaisde Na Gaidhlig, (CB Gaelic College) or a charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.twcurry.com. Grace Mercer Passed in: Sydney Passed on: February 26th, 2014 Grace passed away peacefully on Feb. 26, 2014. She was the daughter of the late Thomas E. Mercer and Mary R. (Dearing) Mercer. Grace was predeceased by her brother Thomas Mercer. She was a loving mother to Grayson (Linda) Colford, Tanya (Bill) Colford. Proud grandmother of Jenna, Hayden and Sheena, one great grandchild Nathaniel. All her children and grandchildren reside in Ontario. Grace had many nieces and nephews Grace was a dedicated Mom and dearly beloved by her friends and family. She had a passion for business and sales, she was a certified real estate agent and was well known as an Avon Manager for the Island for many years. During these years she continued her education and completed a degree in management. She had a passion for outdoor pursuits and loved our Island. We would like to "Thank Kindly" the wonderful care she received at the Palliative Care Unit 4E. Grace was cremated by TW Curry Funeral with a private family memorial to follow Friday, February 28th. Theresa Digero Born In: Cheticamp Passed in: New Waterford Passed on: February 26th, 2014 It is with great sadness the family of Theresa Digero announce her passing on Feb. 26, 2014, at the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital. Born in Cheticamp, she was the daughter of the late Job and Elizabeth (Deveaux) Bourgeois. Theresa was a member of the Parish of Saint Leonard. She was very family-oriented and loved to watch television, her favourite show was The Golden Girls. Theresa is survived by her husband of 57 years Louis; daughter, Ann Marsh; sisters, Lucy Helle and Catherine MacDonald, all of New Waterford. Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by son, Russell, brothers, Francis, Joseph, Peter, Willie, Johnny, sisters Rose, Suzanne, Marguerite and son in-law, Russell Marsh. Cremation has taken place and a chapel service in the funeral home will take place Tuesday, March 4, 2014, at 1 p.m. with Fr. Ray Huntley officiating with a luncheon to follow at the KOC, Plummer Avenue. All are welcome. Burial in St. Michael’s cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave., New Waterford, 862-7500. Donations may be made to a charity of one's choice. To send online condolences go to www.mclellanfuneralhome.com. Marilyn Morrison (Sobol) Born In: Sydney Born: September 7th, 1941 Passed in: Sydney Passed on: February 25th, 2014 Marilyn Jane (Sobol) Morrison passed away peacefully on Feb. 25, 2014, surrounded by the memories and people she loved. Marilyn approached her 18-year cancer battle and her death with the same independence, determination, courage and strength that she lived her life. Marilyn was born in Sydney on Sept. 7, 1941, where she grew up cherishing, her strong Polish community and culture. She was the daughter of the late Stella (Paruch) and Joe Sobol of Wesley Street. Marilyn's vocation was teaching and she exhibited that gift in every aspect of her life. She graduated from Normal College in 1959, and began her first teaching job in the community in which she was raised-Villanova School, Whitney Pier. Her teaching career spanned over 35 years until her retirement from Holy Angels High School. Marilyn was a strong advocate of lifelong learning and over the years continued to enhance her teaching skills through various programs and courses affiliated with CBU. This belief in continued learning, as well as her drive to excel, formed the foundation of Marilyn’s strong work ethic. It was important to Marilyn to instill this in her younger siblings, children and grandchildren. Marilyn married the love of her life, John in 1964, and together they raised four daughters on Cartier Street in the house that John helped build. Family life was everything to John and Marilyn and they enjoyed wonderful summers with their girls in Middle Cape. After John’s passing, Marilyn sought solace in this beautiful part of Cape Breton Island. There, she loved nothing more than to watch her grandchildren learn to swim in the waters of the Bras d’Or, spend warm evenings playing “spotlight”, building bonfires, sharing good times, cheers and conversation with friends and family. During the winter months Marilyn made her biannual visits to Cuba. These trips and the longstanding friendships that ensued gave her enormous joy. Although Marilyn could not make the trip this autumn, she relived past travels with smiles and laughter in her final days. Marilyn leaves behind to mourn her passing four daughters, Mary Coleen, Ottawa, Brenda (Jeff), Danielle and Karen, all of Sydney. She also leaves a brother she so admired, John (Valerie) Sobol, Southside Boularderie; sister-in-law, Josie Sobol, East Bay; her sister, Sharon Sobol, Sydney; her “adopted” sister and caregiver Lee Ellen; nephew, Ben; two step-grandchildren, Rachyl and Marcus, as well as many, many special friends near and far. Marilyn will forever be missed by her 11 grandchildren, Tristan, John Angus, Gabrielle, Marianne, Peter, Daniel, Colin, Hanna, Payton, Caitryn and Elyssa. They all loved their 'Baba' dearly, and she strived to teach them all aspects of her beloved Polish heritage so it could be carried on through the generations. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband, John, brothers, Joseph and Nicholas and sister, Janet. Just as Marilyn directed her life and final days, so too did she participate in her memorial planning. As per Marilyn's wishes, cremation has occurred. Funeral mass officiated by Rev. Paul Murphy will take place at St. Mary's Polish Church, Wesley Street, Whitney Pier on Tuesday, March 4 at 11a.m. There will be a gathering with family for friends and colleagues to share in a celebration of Marilyn’s life after her funeral mass from 12-2 p.m. Come and share stories and memories of years gone by. Internment will take place at a later date in Resurrection Cemetery and Middle Cape. Donations may be made to Hospice Palliative Care Society or VON Cape Breton Metro Branch. Let Marilyn's belief of "never losing hope" be realized through these donations. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.twcurry.com.