WESTVILLE – Essie Maureen Gratto, 80, Westville, passed away, November 14, 2011, in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow.
Born in Guilford, Northern Ireland, she was a daughter of the late William and Mary (Mills) Crothers.
She immigrated to Canada at the age of 15, coming to Toronto, where she enrolled in hairdressing school. After completing her course, she met and married the love of her life. She later bought a hairdressing shop of her own, which she operated for more than 20 years. Upon retirement, she moved to Nova Scotia.
Surviving are her daughter, Bonnie (Richard) Westaway; daughter-in-law, Lise Gratto; grandchildren: Richard (Charmaine) and Erin (Samantha) Westaway, Katty Gratto, April (Shauna) Gratto; two great-grandchildren, five step-great-grandchildren; sister, Wilma Gordon, Northern Ireland; many nieces and nephews in Northern Ireland.
She was predeceased by her husband, George; son, Roy William George; brother, Wilbert and sister, Shirley Magill.
Cremation has taken place.
As per her instruction, there will be no visitation or funeral.
In keeping with her wishes, memorial donations may be made to the local food bank or homeless shelter.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.