It is with great sadness, heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss to our family and community that we announce the passing in the Palliative Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital of our Dad, David ("Davey") Jacob Haddad, 87 years, of Westville on Sunday, March 29, 2009.
Born in 1922, in Katana, Syria, David was the son of the late Jacob and Werdy Haddad.
In 1934, at the age of 12 and after a long two week journey on a boat from Syria, he arrived in Montreal, Canada, with his younger sister, Thelma and mother, his father, Jacob, having already been in Canada for 10 years establishing a new life for his family. In his early days, Dad worked in the Westville mines. He also spent time in Esquimalt, B.C., where he trained as a gunner. David was a retired self-employed businessman having worked with his Dad in "Jacob Haddad and Sons" Clothing Store, South Main St., Westville. For over 40 years he travelled to the communities of River John, Pictou Landing and other areas of Pictou County. Even though he was retired, Dad continued contact with his customers and friends over the years and maintained an informal store. He truly loved and respected the people he served who, along with their families, became his lifelong friends. He always had that special item for his customers and if the customer was not able to pick up items from "town", he was eager to obtain and deliver whatever was needed. Dad was proud of his Canadian citizenship and the many opportunities this country offered him over the 75 years. Throughout these years he became an expert "barber", electrician, plumber, carpenter – unofficial handyman skills which he used to maintain his properties. Those who knew him were also aware of his amazing gardening skills which began in Syria, having maintained as many as three gardens on South Main St. and in Foxbrook, Westville, as well as in River John over the years. Many people came to know him for his friendly smile, honesty, that special knowing twinkle of the eye, his response that he was feeling "number 1", special phrases, as well as the use of the word "buddy" when he greeted the many people he met on a daily basis. Over the past several years Dad established a special bond and friendship with the" boys on the bench" at the Highland Square Mall. Raymond, your time with Dad was remarkable. Also he truly loved the kindness and recognition the many workers at the Mall, Superstore and other places he visited on a regular basis gave him over the years who affectionately referred to him as "Davey". He greatly cherished his many friendships.
David is survived by daughters, Gladys, New Glasgow; Margie Daly (Greg), Vallejo, California; special grandsons, Sean and Scott Daly who loved to cook special omelettes and garden with their Grandpa ("Giddy"); sisters: Mary Kays, Charlottetown, P.E.I.; Sadie Shama, Charlottetown, P.E.I.; Jeannie Joseph, Springhill; Julia Haddad, Halifax; several nieces/grand nieces and nephews/grand nephews as well cousins in Calgary and Syria.
He was predeceased by his sister, Thelma Joseph; and his dear brother, Johnnie.
The family will receive visitors 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2009, at Eagles Funeral Home, Westville. Service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2009, from St. Bee’s Anglican Church, Westville, with Rev. Peter Armstrong officiating. The community will be invited to share memories and remembrances of Dad during the service as we celebrate Dad’s life and mourn his loss.
If so desired, donations in David’s memory to the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Society and St. Bee’s Church are welcomed.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Gerry Farrell and his Palliative Care Team who helped and supported us the past three days, the nurses on 2nd North and the Emergency Department who all worked so diligently so ensure Dad’s comfort.
On line condolences: www.eaglesfuneralhome.ca