76, Sydney River
It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we, the family of Bernard Joseph ‘Choo-Choo’ French, announce his passing after a courageous fight with cancer at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Palliative Care unit, on Sunday, July 13, 2014, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Whitney Pier, Dad was the son of the late Wilfred and Mary Agnes (Aucoin) French.
In 1960 Dad met the love of his life, Ann Marie MacDonald. They married on Aug. 7, 1962 and lived 52 happy years together.
Dad worked for David’s market, Co-op grocery in East Bay and in Sydney. He also worked for Hudson Bay Company and Red & White. Later was employed with Sydney Steel plant, retiring in 2001 when the plant closed.
Dad was a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus of Sydney, volunteering his time for 44 years. He loved to bowl and did so for many years. In Dad’s younger years, he loved to play softball.
Dad will be missed by all who knew him.
Dad leaves behind his loving wife, Ann Marie; three children and their families, Bernard Jr. (Noy), Donna Marie (Steve) and Steven Angus (Laura) and five grandchildren, Christopher, Matthew, Brandon, Kylee and Winnie.
Besides his parents, dad was predeceased by his sister, Rosella and in-laws, Angus and Sarah MacDonald.
There will be no visitation by request. Funeral mass for Dad will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 16, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church with Fr. Duaine Devereaux officiating. Following the mass a reception will be held in the church hall. A private family interment will take place at a later date.
Donations in memory of Bernard may be made to the Hospice Palliative Society of Cape Breton County.
We give a special thank you to Susan Bernier for opening her home to our mom and dad countless times. Thank you, Francis and Joyce Doyle for your numerous visits to see dad and for preparing food for the family during dad’s illness. We will never forget your kindness.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Dear Anne Marie: I am George and Thelma Schaller's daughter Bernie was always so kind to me and I remember when Dad died he was so comforting to us. I always called him Uncle Bernie and he would laugh. He was an amazing friend to me so I can only imagine what kind of a husband and dad he was.
From: Colette Schaller-Beaton
At this time I would like to express My deepest condolence On the loss of a wonderful person who devoted time in helping people in need.
From: Joseph Mombourquette
So sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. Condolences to Ann Marie & Family.
From: Alex Miller