TERRY PHILLIPO
Passed on: August 21st, 2017
We, the family of Terry Phillipo, are deeply saddened to announce his peaceful passing, with his family by his side, in the early morning hours of Monday, August 21, 2017, after a lengthy illness. Left to mourn is his wife, Sheila (nee Sanson); son, Kyle (Laura); daughter, Fleur (Shawne Gervais) and three granddaughters, Grace, Emily and Katie Phillipo, whom he adored. Dad also leaves behind his big brother, Bob Phillipo (Helena); brother, Wannie Phillipo (Jeroma); sister, Marie Coles (Anthony), and many very close and much loved brothers and sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews and friends, who were a large part of his everyday life.
Dad was predeceased by his best friend and father, Desire 'Feese' Phillipo; his mother, Annie Phillipo and his loyal companion, Simba.
In his early years, Dad worked as a dedicated steel worker for the Sydney Steel Plant. For the last number of years, Dad worked for Saf-Way Auto Parts, where he greatly enjoyed the comradery of all those he worked with and met daily on his deliveries. He was quick with a friendly greeting, usually followed by some good-natured ribbing, normally about the misfortunes of someone else's sports team. He truly enjoyed friendly banter and liked to regale us with the friendly exchanges he had day to day. Dad was a hard worker and the first to lend a hand when help was needed. Dad would give you the shirt off of his back, asking nothing in return. A kinder soul you would never meet.
Dad enjoyed the simple things in life; family, friends and good times. He spent as much time as possible at the bungalow in Loch Lomond, which he considered a slice of Heaven on Earth and where countless adventures were had. Many a traipse through the woods occurred, a fish was caught, a song was sung, a horseshoe tossed, a card dealt and a dart thrown. Spending time with his family and friends at the bungalow was one of Dad's greatest pleasures and the memories created there will last a lifetime. Dad was a devoted and loving family man and a beloved resident of the Westmount community. He was an avid sports fan and played baseball for many years, most notably with Cape Breton's Prime Cuts, where he earned the nickname 'Ribs'. Dad was a terrific dart player and it was one of his absolute favourite past-times. He played for many years in the local leagues in Westmount, often bringing home the top prizes at the end of every season. He enjoyed playing with every partner that was drawn for him, whether it was a member of his darts dream team or a new player to the game. Good natured, fun and friendly competition was something that Dad enjoyed to the fullest.
Dad loved music and listening to the classic tunes of the 50’s and 60’s. There wasn't a Saturday morning that went by where he wouldn’t have the radio blasting and have a little dance in the kitchen. Dad loved to dance. He couldn’t wait to get out on the floor and rock and roll at a reception or a dance. Dad would be out on the dance floor until the last song was played. If men still used dance cards, Dad’s would have always been full.
Dad was a true and loyal friend to so many who knew him and not surprisingly, he was a friend to his children's friends as well. Dad radiated kindness. Never a harsh word was spoken. He was a pleasure to spend time with and he loved good-natured fun. Dad set an example of how to live and be happy.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for the care and nurturing that Dad received in the early days of his illness. Especially, the nurses on 4A who treated him like a King. We would also like to thank Dr. Ritter, the Palliative Care Team and the VON for the compassionate care they provided Dad with recently, as well as over the past year.
Dad requested that there be no visitation. A service will be held at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, August 23 at 1 p.m., with Rev. Thomas Whent officiating. Interment in Holy Rosary Cemetery.
Dad’s passing has left an immeasurable hole in our family and hearts. When you think of him, please remember his friendly grin, his infectious personality, and his ever classic greeting, “..Hey, how about them Yankees.” Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or e-mail sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
