John passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009.
Born in Number Eleven, he was the son of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Thiel.
John worked in the mining industry until his retirement. Until recent years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed spending time at his bungalow in Framboise. Another great pleasure for him was taking long country drives in his Ford vehicles. He was a long time member of Saint Gregory’s parish and was involved in the men’s club as well as being caretaker of the graveyard with his late friend, Duncan. He also served as past-president of the Donkin credit union.
John’s gentle nature and wonderful sense of humour will be missed by all who knew him. He was a true gentleman.
He is survived by his loving children, Gloria (Malcolm) Spafford and Greg (Kathy). Also survived by grandchildren, Terry and Ashley Spafford, Craig, Tanya and Holly Thiel and Adam Krewenki and one great-granddaughter, Drew Mary White. Left to mourn also are his sisters, Florence Breski (Mick), Betty Crocker (Nipper), Hattie (Gerald) Bateman and brother, Sonny (Frances).
John was predeceased by his wife, Mary (Amadio); sisters, Margie and Ann and daughter-in-law, Juanita.
As per John’s wishes there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place under the arrangement of Sydney Memorial Chapel. The funeral mass will be celebrated Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Gregory’s Church, Donkin with Fr. Conrad Edwards officiating.
As an expression of sympathy for John, donations may be made to Saint Gregory’s Church or a charity of choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family at sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca.
“And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched...for nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much.”

Hommages

• John D. Steele’s & Sons LTD. Monument Manufacturers
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• Thoms Flowers
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