Sydney
It is with great sadness and love that we, the family announce the passing of Charlie Murray Walsh at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the age of 74.
Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Sidney and Mildred (Cleveland) Walsh, and brothers, David (Nancy), and Ira Walsh.
Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon (Gale) Walsh; daughter, Jennifer Walsh; grandchildren, Kayla, Victoria, and Patrick Charles MacKinnon; son, Liam Walsh; stepsons, David, and Robert (Cara) Petitpas; several nieces, nephews, and a large extended family that included many children who dearly loved their Uncle Charlie.
Charlie’s lineage belonged to the sea. He was raised in the ocean community of Gabarus, and his maternal grandfather sailed on the original Bluenose. His father was in the Merchant Marines during the Second World War, his brother, Ira was in the Canadian Navy, and his brother, David was chief engineer on many ocean-going vessels.
Charlie began his sailing career with the Canadian Coast Guard in the early 70’s, and then spent many years sailing on oil tankers, and lake boats. Charlie finished his career at home as a senior engineer with Marine Atlantic, mostly on the MV Caribou, where his coworkers became lifelong friends.
Following his retirement, Charlie enjoyed being home full-time with Sharon. He loved music, and they were devoted local entertainment supporters. Charlie also loved history, culture, and travel, so after a few years at home, he was persuaded to go back to sea on a cruise ship, where they enjoyed many cruises seeing the world, and visiting many historical sites, and museums.
But most of all, Charlie loved his home and family. He was very sociable, loved entertaining, and spending time with friends, and family. Charlie was loving, affectionate, and gave the world’s best hugs. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing him.
We are especially grateful to the Cape Breton Health Care Complex, the many doctors, nurses, and support staff, both in hospital and outpatient clinics, who provided exemplary care to Charlie. Thank you to the many dedicated VON nurses who supported Charlie at home, and Charlie’s special personal caregiver, Jenna Black, who looked after Charlie both at home and in hospital. Her daily care and company, Charlie enjoyed so much.
Visitation and memorial service to celebrate the life of Charles Walsh will be held at Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church St.), Whitney Pier on Friday, January 2, 2026. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. with the memorial service to follow at 4 p.m. in the All Faith Chapel with Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating. Private family interment will take place in Lakeview Cemetery, Gabarus, at a later date.
For those unable to attend, Live Streaming will be available on our website. Click Here: https://www.facebook.com/35925689617/live/
In Lieu of flowers, donations in Charlie’s memory may be made to the SPCA Cape Breton, BGC Cape Breton, or CB YMCA.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
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