Bernadette 'Bern' Marie MacDonald
Born In: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada
Born: June 26th, 1915
Passed in: Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed on: June 6th, 2010
It is with a sense of loss that we announce the passing of our Aunt Bernadette 'Bern' Marie MacDonald on June 6, 2010, at the Northside Community Guest Home, North Sydney.
Born in Sydney Mines, June 26, 1915, she was the daughter of the late Augustin and Agnes (Lockman) MacDonald, former residents of Egan Street, Sydney Mines. Bernadette was an active and supportive member of St. Pius X parish where she served on various committees and was a member of the church choir.
As a young woman she was employed by the T. Eaton & Co. in their 'order office' in Sydney Mines. She retired from the workforce when Eaton's closed their office, having been employed there for almost 40 years. She later taught a night school class in sewing in Bras d'Or.
An active sports fan, Bernadette had an avid interest in harness racing, baseball and hockey. Her love of music led her to attend many concerts and ceilidhs with her friends Ann MacNeil (deceased) and Viola Bennett. As a result, close personal friendships developed with the likes of John Allan Cameron, the members of Ryan's Fancy and the Clancy Brothers. She travelled extensively throughout the United States and Canada with her good friend and travelling companion Viola Bennett.
Bernadette was a resident of the Senior's Complex, 2 Devoe St., for 25 years. For the last few years of her residence there, the Home Care workers enabled her to stay in her own home until she could no longer safely do so. She was admitted to Seaview Manor in April, 2009, and transferred to the Northside Community Guest Home in February, 2010.
Bernadette is survived by her faithful caregiver, nephew and godchild, Gerard Keigan, North Sydney; and 10 other nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Frank, North Sydney, James Archibald 'Dick', Amherst, and a sister, Genevieve Keigan (Pat), North Sydney.'
Visitation Wednesday, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in Francis Funeral Home, Sydney Mines. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Thursday at 10 a.m. in St. Pius X Church with Fr. Thomas John officiating. Burial in St. Joseph Cemetery.
A special thanks is extended to the Home Care workers in Sydney Mines.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to d.francis@ns.sympatico.ca.
