1947-2012
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Charles Michael Racki regret to announce his passing on April 28, 2012, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, An Cala Unit.
Charlie, as he was known by most, was born in Sydney, Feb. 7, 1947. He was the only son of the late Dragutin ‘Charles’ and Maragret Racki (nee Conway) of Whitney Pier.
Charlie was predeceased by his wife and friend, Mary Margaret Racki (nee Magliaro).
Charlie is survived by his two step-children, Aaron Rice (Candace Matthys) and Ashley Rice (Travis Wilson), as well as his pride and joy, his grandson, Jaden. Charlie is also survived by his two sisters, Ann Marie (Donnie) Pezzarello and Josephine (Jim) Bates, as well as his extended family and friends.
Charlie was an employee for Nova Scotia Power for 35 years and retired in 1997 with many laughs, memories and friendships to bring with him.
Charlie also was the commanding officer for squadron 693 for 15 years. He enjoyed his time helping cadets learn structure and discipline associated with that of the forces. He shares many stories and memories of his various excursions camping and hiking, of those were his Kelly’s Mountain adventure.
Charlie was an avid sports fan, always cheering for his New York Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays. Charlie believed that he could use his passion for sport to help shape and sculpt the character of today’s youth. For many years Charlie coached baseball in Sydney and District Little League where he found success in helping kids develop their love for the game. Charlie also served as the general manager of the Cape Breton Tradesmen Major Midget Hockey Club, where he was the driving force behind the scenes making sure players had opportunity to learn and develop. Charlie believed that sports acted as a catalyst for teaching life skills to kids like team work, discipline and work ethic.
Charlie was a man of integrity and principle. Even though strapped with coronary heart disease and cancer, he made everyday count. He fought and battled these illnesses with courage, determination and a sense of humour, never complaining and always moving forward.
Charlie will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Funeral mass to celebrate the life of Charles Michael Racki will be held Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at 11 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment will take place in Eastmount Cemetery, Whitney Pier. Light refreshments will be served following the committal at the Pier Community Funeral Home in the reception area.
Donations in memory of Charles may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
To Ann & Joey:I was so sorry to hear of Charlie’s passing.I have many memories of him,when I was growing up,on Frederick st.Especially when he played nets for the Jacob boys,on their many street hockey games.He also filled out my Dads income tax,every year.I’m sure he will be missed by all who knew him.May he rest in peace.
From: Debi (DeYoung)Grace
Ashely and Family, my deepest condolences for your loss. May you find comfort in memories and strength in each others love throughout this difficult time. My thoughts are with you.
From: Laura Holland
Ann Marie, Josephine and families – During the time that we knew Charlie it was apparent that he was a man of great character and integrity. He certainly demonstrated that to the kids he taught in Cadets. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. We are out of town and can’t be there, but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
From: Bob and Wendy Pierre
Sincere condolences sent to Aaron and Ashley Rice and their families on the loss of Charles Michael Racki. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Regards – Jeannie and Simon Murray – Big Pond
From: Tish MacInnis
To Aaron, On behalf of myself and everyone associated with the Cape Breton West Islanders, I would like to express our sympathy to you and all members of your family on the passing of Charlie. May he Rest in Peace. Brian Mac Innis
From: Brian Mac Innis
Dear Aaron and Ashley, Our thoughts and prayers are with you both during this very difficult time. Charlie was a great man and his passing will be felt greatly. Please take comfort in knowing he loved you both very much and he is finally at peace. Love Susan and Lindsay Rice and family
From: Susan Rice
My sincere condolences to the Racki family.Charlie was a friend and a gentleman.God bless.
From: Jay Duguid
Extending sincere sympathy to the family. Sorry I can’t attend the service. Thinking of you all with love and prayers.
From: Hector Murphy, Nova Scotia Power employee
To Charlies, children, and family, my thoughts and prayers to all of you at this time of sorrow. Charlie was an amazing person and I will never forget the times I had spent in his home with my family during visits.Charlie, you will be so dearly missed.May you RIP!
Love Crystal Conway and family xox
Our heartfelt sympathy to you all during this difficult time He was a wonderful and proud man with great integrity. My thoughts are with you all…There is a special angel in heaven. Charlie will take care of you the way that you have taken care of him <3
From: Marlene Mitchell
Dear Ann, Joey and Family. I am very sorry to hear of Charlie’s passing. Even though I haven’t seen Charlie in years, I have heard that he fought a courageous battle. He will be fondly thought of and deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Even though tears of sadness are falling here on earth, I guarantee that in heaven, it is tears of Happiness being shed by Uncle Charlie and Aunt Peggy, welcoming their son home. God Bless to you all. xo
From: Melody Conway-Gouthro and Family