Wayne Lohnes
Born In: Sydney
Passed on: July 9th, 2014
Taken too soon by lung cancer, Wayne never relented during his treatment.
Born in Sydney, he was the son of the late George and Florence (MacLeod) Lohnes. Son-in-law of the late Malcolm S. and Shirley (Barss) MacDonald, all of Sydney.
He will be missed by his wife, Nancy (MacDonald); his children, Paul, Mark (Johnanne MacKinnon) and Heather; grandsons, Grady and Kinnon; brother, George (Valerie Saunders), Wolfville; brothers-in-law, Graeme (Carol), Albert (Maureen) and Walter (Alexis) MacDonald; sister-in-law, Joyce (Michael) Kaye; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and a wide circle of lifelong friends.
He was predeceased by an infant son.
Much effort after high school led to graduating from St. FX University with highest honors. A brief period teaching, he worked as a pharmaceutical representative for many years. The switch to entrepreneurship fit him best. As a novice he built a mink ranch that became the largest in C.B. County. He exited ranching by choice, going on to start a successful landscaping business. He also co-managed Ben Eoin Beach Campground for a period in the 1990s. Other ventures followed.
It was later in life that he quietly opened two alcohol and drug-free recovery houses in Sydney and was the sole proprietor for 20 years. His roles included counselor, peacekeeper, handyman and friend. His primary motives were to offer a safe haven where residents would not be alone. He saved two lives using CPR and likely a few more due to his interventions and generosity.
A member and sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous for 44 years, he also played an active role in the Matt Talbot weekends in Mabou. He was also a person who loved the outdoors, especially fishing.
In spite of his flaws and struggles, Wayne was known for helping others. We are grateful to those nurses and doctors who made things easier and thank Dr. W. Harless for his intervention and care.
Funeral service will take place at the United Protestant Church of Sydney River on Saturday, July 12 at 2 p.m., with a reception to follow in MacLeod Hall. Interment to follow at a later date.
Donations may be made to the An Cala Palliative Care unit at the CBRH, the United Protestant Church of Sydney River, or a charity of choice.
Condolences may be emailed to family@lohnes.ca.
