William Thomas McLernon

McLERNON, William Thomas— It is with great sadness that the family of Bill McLernon, 82, of Dartmouth, announces his passing on December 25, 2009, in Dartmouth General Hospital. Born in Owen Sound, Ont., March 14, 1927, he was a son of the late John and Margaret McLernon. Before coming to Nova Scotia, Bill was active in sports and his community while in Ontario, having played Major Junior Hockey in Toronto and Senior Hockey in Owen Sound. He also played basketball with the Bond Purple Raiders and in 2004 was inducted to the Owen Sound Sports Hall of Fame with his teammates. Bill was also active with the Junior Chamber of Commerce while in Owen Sound. In 1968, while working as a branch manager with Hudson's Bay Wholesale, Bill was transferred to Medicine Hat, Alta., and in 1970 he was again transferred to Dartmouth, where he managed the local branch until his retirement. Upon retirement Bill's community involvement surfaced again, volunteering in numerous capacities with Dartmouth Seniors' Service Centre, Commercial Club and his condominium board. He was an active member of Grace United Church. Bill enjoyed summer vacations swimming at Sauble Beach, Ont., and winter vacations in Pompano Beach, Fla. An avid bridge player, Bill played with several groups including the "Overdale Lane Bridge Club" for 39 years. Bill was predeceased by his loving wife of 47 years, Thelma (Totten); brothers, Bob and Sherwood. He is survived by daughter, Jane (Brian Metcalf), University Place, Wash.; son, Rob (Lesley Poirier McLernon), Dartmouth; grandchildren, Bill and Michelle, Victoria, B.C. and Samuel Thomas, Dartmouth; sister-in-law, Dawn Totten, Sauble Beach, Ont.; brother-in-law, Bill Totten (Margaret), Ottawa, Ont., as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, December 30, from 7-9 p.m., in A. L.Mattatall Funeral Home, 217 Portland St., Dartmouth. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 31, at 11 a.m., in Grace United Church, 70 King St., Dartmouth. Family flowers only and donations may be made to the Dartmouth Seniors' Service Centre, 45 Ochterloney St., Dartmouth.