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 25, 2014 Tuesday There were 12 obituaries published today William I. “Bill” Cooke - 84 yrs Robert B. “R.B.” MacNeil - 65 yrs Mary Irene “Sis” Ruelland - 80 yrs Sheila Marie Collins - 72 yrs Brenda Ann (Catoul) Griffin - 57 yrs Donna Priscilla Campbell - 82 yrs Redmond “Retzie” MacLean - 82 yrs Edward Kenneth White - 85 yrs Edgar “Jake” Jacobs - 71 yrs Patricia Lynn (MacKenzie) Hutchinson - 53 yrs Gerrard Whitney “Willie” Williams - 72 yrs John Benjamin “Ben” Lively - 65 yrs William 'Bill' Cooke Born In: Reserve Mines Passed in: Baddeck Passed on: February 24th, 201 It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our loving and special husband, father, grandfather, poppy, uncle and friend, William 'Bill' Cooke, on Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, at the Baddeck Hospital, with his family by his side. Born in Reserve Mines, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Gouthro) Cooke. Bill was employed with Swifts Packers, the Halifax Police Force, Car Pass officer at the Halifax Dockyard, and he spent 28 years in the Air Force. He enjoyed travelling with the antique car shows, he loved music and playing cards, he was an avid curler. As a pastime he collected clocks and coins, he was a member of the car club. Bill was a lifetime member of Branch 12 Legion and was the bartender there for many years. Bill is survived by his wife, Freda (Bennett); his daughter, Cindy (Preston) Deegan, Reserve Mines,;stepchildren, Brenda (Tracey) Troke, Gayle O’Connor, both of Back Bay, N.B., Glenda (Carlyle) MacNeil, Lower Washabuck, whom he resided with for several years; his grandchildren, Michael, Alex, Matthew, Brandon, Andrew, Brittany (Rick), Sarabeth, Shelbi, Chelsey, Devin, Mikayla, Cody, Cheryl, Ann and Kelly; his great-grandchildren, Lucas, Olivia, Elijha, Russell, Sarah, Cody, Daniel, Dylan and Nicolas; his great-great-grandson, Jackson. He is also survived by his brother, Blaise (Ann) Cooke, Chicapee, Mass., brother-in-law, Mark Thomas, Reserve Mines, sister-in-law, Shirley Cooke, Mass; as well as several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Jean (Ritchie), second wife, Julia (Deschepper), sisters, Leona Thomas, Catherine (Harry) Hughes, brother, Eric Cooke, great-granddaughter, Madeline Duncan and stepdaughter, Darlene Howell. Visitation will be held Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, at the S.W. Chant & Son Funeral Home, 564 Alexandra St., from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Funeral service will take place 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating. Interment to take place at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent to our web page at www.chantfuneralhome.com. Robert B. (R.B.) MacNeil Born In: Sydney Passed in: Westmount, Canada Passed on: February 24th, 2014 Robert B. (R.B.) MacNeil, 65, of Westmount passed away peacefully on Feb. 24, 2014. Born in Sydney, he was the son of the late John P. MacNeil and Katherine 'Kay' MacNeil. Also predeceased by his stepmother Eileen (Porter) MacNeil. Loving father to Justin (Laura) MacNeil, Jeffrey MacNeil and Brenon MacNeil. Proud grandfather of Marijka MacNeil. Loving brother to John 'Jack' MacNeil, Sandy (Barb) MacNeil, Pauline Cameron, Betty MacNeil and Margaret-Anne (Don) Cann. Robert was also a great uncle to many nieces and nephews. Robert had a passion for the automobile industry following in his father's footsteps handing on the passion to his sons. He was a well-known auto mechanic and member of the Automobile Dealer Association. He also operated Regional Fuels providing warmth to many homes in his community. Proud member of the Dobson Yacht Club where he spent countless hours with his cherished friends and family. A funeral service will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Westmount, at 1 p.m. on Feb. 27, 2014. Following the service we warmly invite all of his friends to join us in a celebration of R.B's life at the Dobson Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the cancer society for research. Mary 'Sis' Ruelland Born In: Glace Bay Passed in: New Waterford It is with sadness we announce the passing of Mary Irene 'Sis' Ruelland on Feb. 23, 2014, at Seaview Manor in Glace Bay. Born in Castle Bay, N.S., she was a daughter of the late Alex R. and Elizabeth Ann (Farrell) MacNeil. Sis worked at several restaurants around town including Jerome's 3Ks, Simeons and the Bayside. She enjoyed playing bingo and cards with the women. Sis also loved to read and listen to Scottish music. Her greatest passion, though, was spending time with family and friends. Surviving are daughters, Alvina (Gerald) Walker, Alanna (Gordon) McNeil; sons, Alex (Marilyn), George, Albert (Lois), Sandy, Bradley, all of New Waterford; sisters, Christie (Lloyd) White, Big Pond, Peggy McInnis, Howie Centre, Charlotte (Lodge) Mulak, Sydney; grandchildren, Robbie and Ashley, Kristan and Devin, Jason, Adam and Jerry, Brittany and Kyle, Courtney and Cindy, Marilyn, Megan, and Eric; great-grandchildren, Brody and Ryder, Madison and Colin, Ellie; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Ruelland-Jackson; several nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law. Besides her parents, Sis was predeceased by her husband, George, two daughters, Mary Irene and Lucinda, in infancy, son, Robert, brothers, Pius, Malcie, Hughie, Francis, Johnny, sisters, Theresa, Bernadette, Mary, special nephew, Stanley. Visitation will be held Thursday, Feb. 27, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith St., New Waterford. A funeral mass of celebration will take place Friday, Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. in the Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mount Carmel Avenue, with Fr. Ray Huntley officiating. Burial will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery with a luncheon to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Plummer Avenue, New Waterford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at:www.vjmcgillivray.ca. Sheila Marie Collins Born In: North Sydney Born: January 7th, 1942 Passed in: North Sydney Passed on: February 23rd, 2014 It is with sadness the family announce the peaceful passing of Sheila Marie Collins, 72, North Sydney, on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, at the Northside General Hospital surrounded by her family. Born on Jan. 7, 1942, in North Sydney, she was the daughter of the late James William Scott and Ethel (Short) Scott-Donovan. Sheila was a member of St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, North Sydney, where she was involved with Scouts Canada as a Cub Leader for over 20 years. She was also a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the North Sydney Firemen’s Club for a number of years. Sheila is survived by her daughter, Heatherlee (Joe) Gardiner, Sydney Mines; son, Terrance Lloyd Collins (Nicole Arsenault), Leitches Creek; brother, Donald Scott (Judy); her four grandchildren, Krista, Shani, Kyle and Jarod; one great-grandchild Brayden and a number of nieces and nephews. Sheila was predeceased by her husband, Lloyd William Collins, good friend, Wayne Clark and brothers, Jack, Harvey and Lloyd Scott. A special thanks is extended from the family to Bev Muldoon, nurse practitioner at the Northside Guest Home, the 5th floor nurses, especially Karen Crane and staff of the Northside General Hospital for the special care given to Sheila in her time of need. There will be no visitation by request. A private memorial service for Sheila will be held at W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant St., North Sydney, with Rev. Carl Fraser officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Nova Scotia Lung Association. Online condolences may be sent to www.wjdooley.com. Brenda Ann (Catoul) Griffin Born In: New Waterford Passed in: River Ryan Passed on: February 23rd, 2014 It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Brenda Ann Griffin, 57, of Emerald Street, River Ryan, on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, at home. Born in New Waterford, she was a daughter of the late Joseph 'Joe' and Noemi (Maccosi) Catoul. Brenda was employed with the housekeeping department at New Waterford Hospital for many years. She enjoyed collecting and working with crafts, especially sea glass that was gathered on her many walks at Dominion beach. She also loved taking photos and making albums of preciuos moments spent with family and friends. Surviving are her husband, Paddy; sons, Patrick (Tina Winkelmann), Kingston, Ont., Troy (Erin), Dominion; brothers, Joseph 'Joe' (Julie), Oshawa, Ont., Johnny (Linda), New Victoria, Michael (Donna), Glace Bay; sisters, Dolores, Dartmouth, Deanna (Jim) Stevenson, Ont., Linda, Halifax, Maureen, Ont.; grandchildren, Larissa, Samantha and Max; many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends. Besides her parents, Brenda was predeceased by a sister, Brenda Ann, in infancy. There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith St., New Waterford. A funeral mass of celebration will be held Friday, Feb. 28 at 10 a.m. in the Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mount Carmel Avenue with Fr. Ray Huntley officiating. Donations in her memory may be made to the Lupus Foundation of Nova Scotia. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. Donna Priscilla Campbell Born In: Baddeck Passed in: Sydney Passed on: February 22nd, 2014 It is with great sadness that we the family announce the passing of our dear mother Donna Campbell, on Feb. 22, 2014, at the An Cala, Palliative Care Unit, CBRH, with her family by her side. Born in Baddeck, she was the daughter of the late Mary ‘Maye’ MacDonald. Mom enjoyed many years of knitting and baking for her family and friends. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mom was a lover of animals and will be missed by her furry friend, Paws. Mom is survived by her three daughters, Wanda Campbell, Dartmouth, Cathy Campbell (Robert), Balls Creek, Valerie (Gerald) Hill, Westmount; her five grandchildren, Alyssa, Benjamin, Matthew, Candace and Mitchel, and her 12 wonderful great-grandchildren. Besides her mother, Maye, she was predeceased by her husband, Garfield Campbell and sister, Vivian Murphy. The family would like thank the staff at the An Cala Unit for the wonderful care they gave our mom. Special thanks to Dr. Bisson, Dr. D’Intino, and palliative care nurse Jackie for home visits and support. Cremation has taken place. There is no visitation or funeral at Mom’s request. A committal service to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the An Cala Unit, Palliative Care. Online condolences may be sent to our web page at www.chantfuneralhome.com. Redmond MacLean Born In: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada Born: May 17th, 1931 Passed in: Sydney, Ontario, Canada Passed on: February 24th, 2014 Retzie passed away peacefully on Feb. 23, 2014, at Harbourstone Enhanced Care where he was a resident for the past few years. Retzie was the son of the late Archie and Tina MacLean of Ashby in Sydney. He is survived by his two daughters, AnneMarie and Colleen (Allan Kamerman) and his two grandchildren, Aiden and Aimée Kamerman. He was predeceased by his wife, Helena (Aeo) MacDougall and his siblings, Sister Leonarda, Eileen (Johnston), Mary (McGrath), Marie (Gillis) Theresa (Rostek), Fr. Leonard, Jimmy, Michael and Jackie. Retzie lived in Ashby his entire life. He worked at the Sydney Steel Plant, and tthe Sydney Police Force. The majority of his career was at Seaboard Power Plant where he was employed for 25 years before retiring. Retzie was a huge supporter of the Co-op and Sydney Credit Union and served on numerous boards and committees for them as well as the Sydney Water Commission. He was a member of St. Theresa’s parish where he enjoyed serving as an usher and collector at Saturday evening mass. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and spent many Sunday afternoons working bingo. In his final years, Retzie resided at Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility. The family would like to thank the staff on Miner’s Lane, Kenwood Hall for the wonderful care he received. Special thanks to his niece Gloria Farmer and her husband Rick who were wonderful to Retzie and took exceptional care of him. We are truly grateful for Gloria and Rick’s kindness and generosity. A funeral mass will be held in July, the details of which will be announced at a later date. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or charity of one’s choice. Edward Kenneth White Passed in: Sydney Passed on: February 23rd, 2014 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth White at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014. Dad was a well-known barber in the Sydney Area for over 50 years. He loved his work and the opportunity to connect with the public. He had an amazing gift to get to know people and rarely forgot a name or failed to make a connection with everyone he met. Dad was a father to not only his seven children but also to their friends. Everyone was welcomed and cared for at the “White House”. Although Dad lived most of his adult life in Sydney; the village of Inverness, where he was born and raised, always had a special place in his heart. He was the son of the late Stewart and Julia (MacIntosh) White. Dad will be sadly missed by his children, Kendra (Robert) MacDonald, Lloydminster, Bill (Elaine), New Glasgow, Lloyd (Susanne), Sydney, Laura (John) Rykunyk, Sydney, and Julia, residing at home; son-in-law, Brian Thomey, Sydney; 10 grandchildren including two who resided at home, Devan and Kirkland; eight great-grandchildren; brothers, Stewart, Windsor, Percy, Belle Cote, James (Winnie), Inverness; sisters, Margaret, Inverness, Judy Conrad, Dartmouth; sister-in-law, Leslie 'Bunny' Urquhart, West Bay, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Dad was predeceased by his wife, Catherine (Urquhart); son, Wally, daughter, Blanche Thomey, a son in infancy and sisters, Norma and Georgina. The family would like to thank the VON as well as the staff of the An Cala Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, especially Dr. Ritter and Michelle Little. They would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Eileen McIntyre for all her compassion and support. Visitation for Dad will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m in the S.W. Chant & Son Funeral Home, 564 Alexandra St., Sydney. Funeral service will take place Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel, with Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating. Interment to follow in Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Liver Foundation or the AnCala Palliative Care Unit or a charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent to our webpage atwww.chantfuneralhome.com. Edgar 'Jake' Jacobs Passed on: February 22nd, 2014 Edgar ‘Jake’ Jacobs passed away on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, is also survived by a brother, George. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.pierfuneralhome.com. Lynn Hutchison (MacKenzie) Passed in: Black Rock Passed on: February 22nd, 2014 Lynn passed away peacefully at Northside Regional Hospital Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, surrounded by loved ones, after a long battle with cancer. She was the daughter of the late John Hector MacKenzie and Loretta (Taylor). Lynn was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother and friend. She was an inspiration to all and will be deeply missed. Besides her mother Loretta Mackenzie, Lynn is survived by two daughters, Tina and Danielle Hutchison; a granddaughter Rylee and a baby-to-be. She was predeceased by her father, John Hector MacKenzie and husband, Daniel 'Moe' Hutchison. A memorial will be held for Lynn at St. James Presbyterian Church in Big Bras d’Or, Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 4-6 p.m., with burial at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of MacAskill Funeral Home, Baddeck, N.S. Gerrard 'Willie' Williams Born In: New Waterford Born: July 27th, 1941 Passed on: February 22nd, 2014 Gerrard Whitney 'Willie' Williams, 72, died peacefully on Feb. 22, 2014, following a brief period of declining health. Willie was born on July 27, 1941, in New Waterford. Willie was the son of the late Bill and Helen Williams of Low Point. Following high school Willie began working in the local coal mines. It was during this period, 1957 until 1961, that he gained notoriety for his boxing achievements. He served in the Canadian Army, becoming their lightweight class champion in 1959. Willie was also awarded Canada's best boxer that year. He relocated to Boston in 1961 where he became a professional boxer. Willie won his first six bouts and was awarded Ring Magazine's boxer of the month. He was inducted into the Canadian Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993. The ceremony included the legendary George Chuvalo and other famous boxers. Willie was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003 and recognized for his dedication and commitment to the sport. Willie served as a court officer in the City of Lowell, where he devoted more than 25 years of service. He received multiple awards, including recognition by the governor for his outstanding performance to the community. Beloved father of Suzanne, Lori, Lee, son David and the late W. Clair Williams. Survived by brother George of Mississauga and sister Sadie of Quebec. Predeceased by brothers, Clair, Eddy and Charlie, sisters, Anne, Rose and Susan. Also survived by 11 grandchildren, a great-grandson, many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held in Boston on Wednesday, Feb 26, 2014. Online condolences can be forwarded to the Williams Family through [email protected] John 'Ben' Lively Born In: Sydney Passed in: Sydney Forks Passed on: February 23rd, 2014 John ‘Ben’ Lively, 65, of Meadows Road, passed away February 23, 2014 at the C.B. Regional Hospital. Born in Sydney, he was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Hayes) Lively. Ben was a member of Local 721. He worked as a heavy equipment operator. He is survived by his loving wife Jane (Young); daughter Jolene (Umar); sons John (Flora), and Jeremy; grandchildren, ‘Poppy’s Rugrats’, Rebecca and Nolan; close extended family on Meadows and Young’s Lane. Also by sisters Sadie, Florence, Mary Ann and Rachael and brothers Mikey and Sam. He was predeceased by brothers Joseph and Neil. Visitation for the late Mr. Lively will take place from 1 p.m. to the funeral mass time at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, both at St. Mary’s Church, East Bay, with Rev. Frank Abbass officiating. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.twcurry.com.