(1929-2024)
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Alexander Gregory "Al" Chisholm announces his
peaceful passing at home on Lower Railway Street, Inverness, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia on
August 31, 2024. Al will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Al was born on July 6, 1929
in Inverness, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia to his parents, Francis John (Frank) Chisholm and
Annie (MacDonald) Chisholm. Al is predeceased by his loving parents, Frank and Annie
Chisholm; brothers,Lawrence and Gerald Chisholm; brother in-law, Brian Brennan;
sisters-in-law, Gerri (Ferguson) Chisholm, Velma (Paquet) Chisholm; and grandson, Brad
MacArthur. Al is survived and dearly remembered by his loving family, wife, Floanna
(MacQuarrie) Chisholm Inverness; sons, Stewart (Joanne Francis) Inuvik,NWT, Robert,
Judique, and Brian (Erica Deagle),Inverness; daughters, Elizabeth (Wally
Forrest),Halifax, Donna (Dale Gatenby), Penticton, BC and Gracie (Roger Wiswell),Lake
Ainslie; brothers, Jackie Chisholm, Mabou, Charles (Anne) Chisholm,Sydney and
sister, Lorraine Brennan, Inverside; grandchildren, Lauryn, Sophie, Hana, Cassidy, Savanna,
Adreanna,Jasmine,Helaina,Janna,Jackie,Breanna,Riley,Sophie,Bella,Sullivan and Everly;
great-grandchildren, Leo,Charlie, Beau,Reid,Noah and Brooke. Al is also survived by many
nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, brothers in-law and many extended family
members and friends.
Al attended St. Mary’s University for one year before moving on to become a barber and opened
his own business in Inverness, Nova Scotia. Al had an adventurous spirit and soon moved on to
join the Royal Canadian Navy. After his Navy experience, Al found employment in various
careers throughout Canada, in Elliot Lake Ontario, Montreal Quebec and in Windsor Ontario
where he worked for Chrysler Corporation. In 1965 while working for Chrysler Corporation Al’s
struggle with heart disease began. During his return to Inverness in 1960 he met Floanna, the
‘love of his life’ at a dance at the Labour Temple Hall. They married in 1960 and raised six
children over 63 years. In the 1970’s Al began his career as a Harness Racing Judge at the
Inverness Raceway, Sackville Downs and later in Western Canada, this proved to be his life
time passion. Al had many hobbies, he was an avid reader, especially mystery and true crime
novels. Al’s favorite morning read was the Chronicle Herald and the Coop flyer to find the
sales.He purposely watched CNN to keenly analyze the daily reports from around the world. Al
loved to hunt, fish and cook.His day was never complete unless he made his ritual visit to
Bruno’s, the Coal Miners Restaurant or Robin’s for a round table chat on all the happenings
around town.It was never beyond Al to jump into his car for a road trip that may take him across
Canada or just across town. Above all, Poppa (Al) loved his grandchildren.
Al’s family extend their appreciation to all the health care providers throughout the years. Their
commitment and dedication enabled Al to remain at home during his last years. A special thank
you to the Palliative Care Team and Home Care Services.
Visitation will be held in Stella Maris Catholic Church,Inverness ,Saturday, September 7,2024
from 10-10:45 am with Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 am. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Central Inverness Palliative Care Society or to Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital.
Reception to follow at the Inverness Firehall, Central Avenue.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
