Bernadette Shannon
New Glasgow - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Bernadette (Keigan) Shannon of New Glasgow on the evening of 23 October. Bernadette found peace surrounded by her loving family after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
           Born 13 February 1958 in Sydney Mines, Bernadette was a daughter of the late Rosalind Dolhanty and late Coleman Keigan. She attended school in Sydney Mines and then studied lab technology at NSIT in Halifax. It was during her time at NSIT that she met the love of her life, Brian Shannon. They were married 3 October 1981. Bernadette began her thirty-three year career working as a lab technologist in Halifax but soon moved to Bridgewater to build a life with Brian. A career change for Brian led to a move to New Glasgow in 1988. It was there that they truly began their family with the birth of their daughter Laura in 1990 followed shortly thereafter by their son Colin in 1991.
           Bernadette’s family brought her the greatest pride and joy in life. She found true fulfillment in raising her children to be successful adults and witnessing many of their triumphs. However, Laura and Colin were not her only children. Bernadette’s dogs held a special place in her heart; particularly Casey and Hope who were her most loyal and stalwart companions through her toughest days. With her family, Bernadette travelled far and wide; from camping national parks with the kids to exploring Europe and Alaska with Brian, she had no shortage of beautiful memories with her family.
           Bernadette is survived by her husband of thirty-four years, Brian Shannon, her Daughter, Laura Shannon, her son, Colin (Erica) Shannon, her sister, Maureen (Steve) MacIsaac and many nieces, nephews and friends. The family would like to thank Dr. Farrell and his staff at the Aberdeen Palliative Care Unit as well as Bernadette’s physician Dr. Jeans. Bernadette would want all those who came together to support her throughout her battle - the professionals and especially the coworkers and friends from all periods of her life - to know that they made a difference.
           Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave, New Glasgow (902-755-4122) where visitation will be held 2-4 and 7-9 pm on Tuesday 27 October. A funeral service will be held 11 am Wednesday 28 October at St. John the Baptist Church in New Glasgow. Burial will happen at a later date in Bras D’Or. Family flowers only please. Those wishing to make a donation in Bernadette’s name may do so to the Palliative Care Unit at the Aberdeen Hospital. Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca