Frederick Wilfred MacCuish
Born In: Glace Bay
Passed in: Sydney
Passed on: April 10th, 2016
With heavy hearts, the family of Frederick Wilfred MacCuish, a longtime resident of Sydney River, announce his passing at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney, on Sunday, April 10, 2016, after a lengthy illness. He was 86.
Born in Glace Bay to parents, Charles and Beatrice (Hawley) MacCuish, he spent his early years in New Aberdeen. By the time Fred was 15, both parents had passed away and he moved to Sydney to live with his only sister, until he moved out on his own. It was in Sydney that he met his future wife, Florence Langley.
Fred spent his career working for the railway, first for CNR and later, Via passenger service. For many years, he was active in the United Transportation Union and its predecessor, often taking leadership roles. Fred was a very diligent supporter of figure skating in the area and was a founder of the Sydney Metro Figure Skating Club. Fred initiated the first TV bingo program as an ongoing fundraiser for local figure skaters. He also coached the Riverside Pee Wee Hockey Team of Sydney River with his friend, Bo Stephenson. After he retired, Fred became very active in other organizations, such as, the Golden K, Y’s Mens’ and the Mens’ Brotherhood of the United Protestant Church of Sydney River. He greatly enjoyed the fellowship, laughter and wonderful friendships which emerged from these organizations. A longtime member of the United Protestant Church of Sydney River, Fred also sang in the church’s men’s choir.
Predeceased by his parents, his beloved wife, Florence (1993); his sister, Rita and her husband, John Lamond; brothers, Donnie, Buddy, Walter, Jimmy, Allister, George, Russell and Murray; best friends, Mackie MacDonald and Charlie Taylor.
He will be deeply missed by his son, Rick (Rev. Laurie), Dutch Brook; his daughter, Dale (Darren Farkas), Toronto and his only grandchild, Ainsley MacCuish, Puerto de Sagunto, Spain. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, dear friend, Florence Taylor and her family and his friend, Norine MacIntyre.
The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Greg Myatt for his outstanding care and his friendship with Fred through the years, Dr. Myatt’s nurse, Janice for her care and attentiveness, the VON for their years of home care, the medical staff of the CBRH and to Rev. Dana Feltmate, Fred truly enjoyed the laughter and unique friendship you shared and the many visits over the past number of months.
Visitation will take place at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the United Protestant Church of Sydney River Friday 11 a.m., with Rev. Laurie MacCuish officiating. Private interment at a later date.
Suggested memorial donations to the United Protestant Church of Sydney River, Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation or the Y's Mens' Christmas Cheer Campaign.
He will be greatly missed.
Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or email sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
