James 'Big Jim' Raymond MacRury
Lieu de naissance : Whitney Pier
Lieu de décès : Sydney
Date de décès : 26 janvier 2014
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Big Jim MacRury on Jan. 26, 2014, surrounded by love at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.
Born in Whitney Pier, he was the son of the late Neil Alexander and Florence (LeDrew) MacRury. Jim was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Jim is survived by his loving children, Catherine-Anne (Brian) Bowman, Port Hawksbury, Jimmie (Debbie), Mira, John-Hugh (Sharon), Ontario, Paula (Stephen) MacLeod, Sydney; grandchildren, Adam, Katie, Greg, Matthew and Melissa; in-laws Kay Filek, Eileen (Bill) MacNeil, Carol (Paul) Bourgeois, Arthur McKenna, Beatrice MacRury, Catherine MacRury, as well as many nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by his good friend George Tomie, as well as his loving furry companion, Rory.
Dad started work at the age of 14 at the Sydney Steel Plant and worked in the rail finishing mill for 43 years until his retirement in 1985. He was a proud member of the CCF and was a true believer and supporter of Tommy Douglas. Dad was proud to carry the plaque card for the Steel Plant Parade of Concern in 1967. He loved to participate in the rotary shows.
In his younger years, Dad enjoyed playing baseball in the Pier and he loved watching the Toronto Blue Jays. Dad was a devoted husband and father and he has left many cherished memories of fun-filled summer vacations spent in Mira and the bungalow in Benacadie. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and he loved family gatherings with Pauline’s home cooking. Dad enjoyed going for Sunday drives around South Bar especially stopping at the Bayside Canteen and spending time at Iona Beach, which was one of his favourite places. You could be sure to find Dad in his chair, smiling and wiggling his feet while listening to Donnie Campbell every Sunday night. Dad loved Celtic music and his Cape Breton home and he was especially proud to be a Pier boy.
Besides his parents, Jim was predeceased by his loving wife of 52 years, Pauline (McKenna) in June 2013. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Archie and Donald and by brother-in-law Joe Filek.
The family would like to thank the staff and residents of the Irish Cove wing of Harbourstone Enhanced Care for their compassion and care during Dad’s stay there. We will all miss his beautiful smile and friendly ways.
Upon Dad’s request there will be no visitation. A funeral mass will be held to celebrate Big Jim’s life on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier, with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment to take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
"Strike three ... Ball Game Over"
Online condolences may be sent to our web page at www.chantfuneralhome.com.