Everett Cann
Born In: Glace Bay
Passed in: Glace Bay
Passed on: December 10th, 2013
It is with heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the sudden passing of Everett Cann Sr., at the age of 76, on Dec. 10, 2013, at the Glace Bay Hospital, surrounded by family.
Born in Glace Bay, he was the son of the late John and Georgina (Andrews) Cann. He was a devoted member of St. Anthony's parish, where both he and his wife, the late Alice (MacNeil) Cann will be remembered for their passionate involvement to both the community and the church through their music. Everett directed both men and boy's choirs in the early 60s and 70s. When the Vatican VI was formed he also directed congregational singing. He was a well known musician, starting his musical career as a drummer with the late Buddy Pickup Orchestra in the 1950s. He later studied saxophone and took lessons from the late Gib Whitney. He then formed his own band in the early 60s called the Everett Cann Orchestra, where he performed in many establishments across the island. To name a few, Branch #40 Legion, Passchendale, Port Morien Legion and Donkin Legion.
Everett was an associate member of Branch #40 Legion under his father's number. He was also past president of that branch and served many years as 1st vice president. He also served on the board of directors of the MacIntyre Credit Union when it was in operation in the Passchendale area. He along with Fr. Joseph Coté formed what is known as the Coté Housing Group.
He was custodian of Saint Anthony's School, a position he held for 30 years until he retired in 1989.
He held the position of president for the Cape Breton Musician's Association for six years and was a member of the first board of directors in 1966. He was also a lifetime member with that association. He also entertained people as a popular Master of Ceremonies.
He was past president of Local 760 with the Canadian Union of Public Employees.
Everett is survived by his three sons, Everett Allan (Margie), Craig (Michelle McNeil) and Todd; seven grandchildren, Melanie (Stephen), Lakin, Mallory, Robert (Courtney), Meaghan (Derrick), Devon and Nathan. Three great-grandchildren, Kendra, Drayah and Cooper; brother, Bryant (Rhoda); sister, Clair; many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Alice (MacNeil); two sisters, Verba and Louella and brother-in-law, Neil MacLean.
Everett will also be sadly missed by Donna Hedd, Wendy Ferguson and Michelle Drake.
Visiation will be held from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 at Curry's Funeral Home, Main Street, Glace Bay. A funeral mass will be celebrated with Fr. Norman McPhee on Wednesday, Dec. 18th at 11 a.m. in St. Anthony's Church, Dominion Street, Glace Bay.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at wwwjmcurryfuneralhome.com.
