John McIntyre
It is with sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John McIntyre, age 80. John passed away at Highland Manor, Neil’s Harbour, after many years of living with dementia. Born in Glace Bay, John was the son of the late Joseph and Helen McIntyre. He leaves behind his loving wife of 36 years, Eileen (Armstrong); daughters, Wanda (Stan) Williams and Betty (Steve Myette); grandchildren, Sheray (Tyler Chisholm), Alex and Nicky; great-grandson, Carter; sisters, Alice (Adrian) Kiley, Anne Penny, Susan Richardson (Gerald Wheatley), Beatrice (David) MacDonald and Mary Ellen MacIntyre; brothers, Richie (Colleen) McIntyre and Alphonse (Pat) McIntyre; close family friend, Sheila Wynn MacLean. He was predeceased by his brothers, Arthur and Danny.
John worked at the YMCA from about 1965-1982 after receiving his phys ed training from the air force. During that time, John participated in an exercise show on TV to promote fitness and healthy life style. He also participated in two exerthons to help raise money for the Y. In the second exerthon, and under the watchful eye of the director of sports at UCCB and a medical doctor, John successfully exercised for 72 hours nonstop. In the 1980's-1990's, John had a TV program on the local community channel to teach children and adults how to draw cartoons. He also worked with the school board and the summer arts program to teach and encourage children to draw. In 1983, John joined the Corps of Commissionaires. His last posting was at the Canadian Coast Guard College, retiring in 2001. John was well respected by the staff at the CCGC and his sense of humor kept him as a favorite amongst the staff. Before John’s health decline, he could be seen every Saturday morning running along the Louisbourg Highway with his fellow runners. Or he’d be running along Kings Road in preparation of another road race. For many years, John was the guy to beat in a race. After a long run, the group would enjoy a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop and reminisce about their running careers. John also enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. His love of music was a big part of his life and it stayed with him throughout the disease. He would tap along to old country music and always enjoyed when the musicians came to the Manor to spend the afternoon with the residents. A sincere thank you to the doctors, nurses, care workers and staff at Highland Manor. John received the highest level of care. He was treated with love, dignity, respect and was treated like family. A special thank you to the residents of Highland Manor who all became part of John’s family. At John’s request, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations may be made to Highland Manor Nursing Home, the Alzheimer Society or a charity of choice. Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or e-mail sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
