Clarence William Long
Passed on: November 4th, 2018
It is with heavy hearts that we, the family of Clarence William Long, 95, announce his passing on Sunday, November 4, 2018 at the Victoria County Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in North Sydney on September 2, 1923 to parents Thomas and Edith (MacAulay) Long.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Anna (MacPhail) Long; son, Keith (Peggy) of Whitby, Ontario, and daughter, Pauline (Lenard) of Baddeck. He was a much-loved ‘Grampy’ to grandchildren, Matthew (Amy), Rachel (Darren), Amanda (Gavin) and Krista (Justin). He is also survived by sisters, Edie Toms, Baddeck and Blanche Williams, Lower Sackville, and many nieces and nephews.
Beside his parents, Clarence was predeceased by brothers, Alex and Kilmer; sister, Muriel (Carmichael); brothers-in-law, Jack Toms, Len Williams and Harry Carmichael, and sisters-in-law, Sadie MacRae and Ann Beers.
Clarence grew up on the Gannon Road in North Sydney, before moving to Baddeck in 1940 at age 17. He worked many odd jobs around town and met his wife, Anna, at the telephone office where she was working in Baddeck. They were married on April 2, 1952. He left for Korea soon after and served fourteen months there during the Korean War. He was always very proud of his time served in the army and loved telling us many stories over the years of his experiences there.
While in Korea he picked up his talent for barbering, and once he returned to Baddeck in 1954, he worked under Bill Connick in his barbershop on Chebucto Street and took it over once Connick retired. Once they moved from Water Street up the hill to Queen Street, the shop was moved as well, and he continued to be the town’s barber for over 45 years, retiring at 82.
Clarence also had a great talent for music, particularly fiddle and guitar, and spent many years playing ceilidhs and dances with his brothers Kilmer and Alex. He was also a wonderful teacher and inspiration to granddaughter, Rachel, and continued to play fiddle and guitar at various venues in Baddeck through the years. He was a dedicated member of the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association for many years, and enjoyed plenty of performances with the group, including a trip to Scotland in 2008.
His friends and family will fondly remember him for his great sense of humour, and always having a quick wit with everyone he met. Our family would like to thank Dr. Genge, Dr. Woodford, and all of the nurses and staff at the Victoria County Memorial Hospital for their great care, and for always having a laugh with Dad. Special thanks as well to Florence, and the wonderful staff at MacLeod House for the care and kindness they’ve shown to Mom and Dad.
Visitation will be held at Knox Presbyterian Church in Baddeck, Wednesday November 7, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., with funeral services immediately following at 3 p.m. A reception will follow at Knox Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Victoria County Memorial Hospital Foundation.
