Henry "Earl" Moffatt
We, the family, announce the peaceful passing of Henry “Earl” Moffatt at the Cape Regional Hospital on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, on his 88th birthday. Born in Sydney, Earl was the youngest child of the late Charles Osborne Moffatt and Jennie Bennett MacLeod Moffatt. He remained in Sydney for his entire life and had a deep appreciation for his beautiful Cape Breton Island. Even at the end, the fiddle music of local musicians provided him with deep comfort.
During his working years, Earl carved out a rewarding 35-year career with Air Canada. There, he made many friends along the way, and was known as being a hard-worker who was dedicated to his employer. This translated into his home-life as well, where he was a wonderful provider and someone who took a great deal of pride in his home and belongings. Having the lawn manicured perfectly and the car washed inside and out, was a priority for Earl. Most importantly, however, was his connection to his family. Day trips around the island with Christene, family vacations to Florida, Sunday dinners, attending Eagles games, and holiday gatherings were always a big source of enjoyment for Earl, especially when he took on his most cherished role as Grampie. He’d pace the floors waiting for his “girls” to arrive at the house, and revelled in the joy of helping Grammie surprise them with gifts and love. A man of few words, Earl could not articulate his feelings well, but it was more than evident that he was fiercely protective and proud of his family and would do anything for us. Even as his health began failing, he’d stop at nothing to attend Abbie and Brielle’s volleyball games or any other special events. Although he was never one to like big gatherings, he was at his happiest sitting back in his rocking chair, watching the grandkids play and just taking it all in. He loved us all dearly.
Earl is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Christene, who was his constant companion over the last 52 years, his only child Craig and daughter-in-law Michelle, and his cherished granddaughters, Abbie and Brielle, who were the light of his life. He also leaves behind his sister, Eleanor Waterman (late Harvey); nieces Lauren Burns (Jimmy), Jennifer Craig (Ed Fewer), Edie Moffatt-Crowe (late Merle), Elaine Featherby (Jim) and nephews, Stewart Waterman, Larry Waterman (Carla), Cecil Ash, Jr. (Buelah) and Winston Ash, along with numerous grandnieces and grandnephews. Earl was predeceased by his parents, his brothers, Aubrey, James (Mary) and Stewart (Josephine); his sister, Pearl (Cecil Sr.) and his nephews, James Roland (surviving spouse Anne Marie) and John Wendell Moffatt.
Special thanks to the wonderful staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, especially the caregivers in 4A, Palliative Care and Dr. Andrew Giorno, who went above and beyond making Earl comfortable and easing the family’s minds as we went through such a difficult time. To our family and friends, we thank you for everything you’ve done. Words can’t express our gratitude for your support and love. As per Earl’s wishes cremation has taken place and a family graveside service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made in Earl’s honor to the local SPCA or the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or emailed to sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
