William 'Bill' Finney
Born In: Sydney Mines
Born: July 18th, 1944
Passed in: North Sydney
Passed on: June 5th, 2016
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William ‘Bill’ Craig Finney on June 5, 2016 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney, after a lengthy duel with cancer.
Bill was born in Sydney Mines, July 18, 1944, he was a son of the late George and Sarah (Fisher) Finney.
He was a skilled oil burner mechanic, gardener, woodcraftsman, painter and pianist. Bill was always ready to lift the spirits of those in need by lending a hand, offering advice, or telling a great story about his adventurous younger years. His wit and work ethic were matched by his warm heart and deep perspective.
Having faced cancer three times, Bill cherished each day and took each step forward with a smile of determination, especially on trips to Home Hardware and the garden centre as he planned his next project. On the rare occasion he rested, Bill loved long drives through the country and could often be found getting lost in the pages penned by his favourite authors, surrounded by his favourite sweet treats.
Bill is survived by his best friend and loving wife Catherine (Hillier) Finney; sons Craig (Karen) and Gordon (Kim); daughters Tracy and Lindsay (Glen) Cross; his grandchildren Aaron, Kristen, Grayson, Jeffrey, Jason (Krista) and Christina; countless nieces and nephews who he loved dearly and his favourite four-legged friends, Jersey and Sailor.
Besides his parents George and Sarah Finney, he was predeceased by brothers Alfred and James Finney and sister Beatrice Mulley.
Deepest thanks are extended to long time family doctor, Dr. John Kirkpatrick whose encouragement, humour and care will never be forgotten. To the many doctors, nurses and staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital and the Victoria General Cancer Clinic in Halifax who provided exceptional care with kindness and compassion and to the many family members, friends and neighbours who have been there for our family through this difficult time.
Visitation will be held 7-9 p.m. Wednesday in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant St., North Sydney. A celebration of his life will be held 3 p.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Anglican Church with Rev. Julio Martin officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society and the Northside Community Guest Home Foundation.
Online condolences may be sent to www.wjdooley.com.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
