Mary Knickle
Passed on: October 9th, 2008
Halifax/Bras d’Or Mary Magdelain Knickle (Howley) died peacefully at her residence, 5633 Drummond Court, Halifax, with her close family at her side, on Oct. 9, 2008. Born in Little Bras d’Or, N.S., she was the daughter of the late Ella Howley (Fraser) and Joseph Howley. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert and her only child, Bertrum, sisters, Annie (Devison) and Helen (Buchanan) and brothers, Gratten, Milton, Patrick and John. She is survived by her nieces, Anne MacNeil and her children, Laura and Alex; Carolyn Toomey (Jack) and their children, Beth, Shaemus and Keighan and nephews, Alex Buchanan (Tracey) and their children, Emily, Alyssa and Jessica and Art Buchanan and daughters, Julie Vannordin and Karen and his partner, Shirley Mercer, with whom he provided loving and devoted care to Aunt Mary in her home, these last seven months of her life. She is also survived by nieces, Patricia (Stewart) Fricker, Grace (Bernie) Peck, Dave (Dolores) Howley, Joe (Frances) Howley, Lillian Rudnikoff, Ellen Howley, Sally Campbell and Doug (Donna) Howley and families. A teacher by profession, Mary began her teaching career in Cape Breton, teaching in Bras d’Or West, Boularderie and Mill Creek. She continued her career with the Halifax school district, until her retirement in 1977. Mary was a kind and gentle soul, who enjoyed her family and friends and always welcomed them into her home. She was an avid reader, keeping abreast of local and world affairs and enjoying a daily walk until recent weeks. She was a devote Catholic and a member of the Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta parish, Halifax. By Mary’s request, family visitation will take place Friday, from 7-9 p.m. in her family home in Bras d’Or. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Parish Church, Bras d’Or with Fr. Peter MacLeod presiding. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Francis Funeral Home, Sydney Mines.
