Roy Donald Burchell
Passed on: June 7th, 2008
73 New Victoria Roy Burchell, age 73 of Waterford Lake Road, New Victoria, passed away on Saturday, June 7th, 2008 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. Born in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, Roy was the son of Margaret (Townsend) Burchell of Victoria Haven Nursing Home, Glace Bay and the late William Burchell. He was a member of Calvin United Church, New Waterford. Roy worked in the coal mines for thirty years. He was also employed for a short time with General Instruments, Sydney, before returning to the coal mines. Roy was known for his outgoing personality, keen sense of humour and great ability for telling stories. Not all but many of his stories would center around the Cape Breton coal mines and his family genealogy. He loved to go skating and also had a passion for gardening. Roy’s greatest gift was the ability to give and receive love from his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, the former Ruth Gosbee; two daughters, Carol (Mrs. Wilfred Sampson), River Ryan and Cheryl (Mrs.Lorne MacNeil), New Victoria. Roy is survived by two brothers, Cecil, his twin brother and Merrill (Barbara); one sister, Cynthia (Mrs. Frank McNeil), all in New Waterford and two special cousins, Greg and Terry. Also surviving are his pride and joy, his three grandchildren, Adam and Erin MacNeil and Jenna Sampson; two sisters in law, Aleen and Rita Burchell; as well as several nieces and nephews. Roy was predeceased by his father and two brothers, Russell and Calvin. Cremation has taken place. The family will receive relatives and friends on Monday evening from 7-9 p.m. at the V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. The funeral service officiated by Reverend Duncan Roach will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m. in Calvin United Church followed by interment in Union Grove Cemetery, Scotchtown. Following the service all are invited to join the family for a reception in the church hall. As an expression of sympathy for Roy, donations in his memory may be made to Calvin United Church, Palliative Care or the V.O.N. Condolences to the family can be expressed through the funeral home webpage at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca
