Ed passed away at home on May 12, age 74. He is survived by Ann (nee Campbell), his loving partner and wife of 52 years, his daughter Laura (Brad McPhee), Glace Bay, and son Alex (Barbara), Winnipeg. He also leaves behind brothers Greg (Liz), Jim (Anne) and Stanley (Debbie), sisters Anne (Kelvin Digout), Clare (John Walker), Pauline (Blaine Rooney), and Ann’s lifelong friend, Dorita Schmidt, and her husband Jim.
He was a wonderful grandfather to Robyn, Connor and Oscar, of whom he was immensely proud. Ed was predeceased by parents Alex and Eileen, brother Angus, and sister Mary (who died in infancy).
Ed grew up in Big Pond, and after moving to Glace Bay and then Sydney, he settled back in Big Pond. For most of his professional life he worked for Xerox Canada, travelling all over Cape Breton Island. After “retiring” Ed worked in various endeavors, most notably with contractor and friend Gerald (GT) Thomas in the building trades. Ed and Ann were instrumental in establishing Able Bay Cleaning Limited, providing service to restaurants in the industrial area of Cape Breton. All the while, Ed continued working on projects for businesses, friends and neighbours until his death.
To capture in words the life of such a multi-talented and accomplished man is an impossible task. A leader in his community, a perfectionist in all he attempted and a truly dedicated family man, Ed leaves behind a wonderful example of hard work, citizenship, service and friendship that will live long into the future. He was always so generous with his time and skills. For many years Ed worked with the Community Council organizing the renowned annual Big Pond Concert which was held on the MacIntyre family property. He volunteered with the Big Pond Fire Department and continued his support long after retiring from the department. He was also a man of faith, working in his church community for many years.
Ed’s skill in the trades was considerable and widely-recognized. His abilities in carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating and all aspects of construction made him a much sought-after contractor. He was an accomplished wood worker who toiled tirelessly to learn new techniques, and novel tools and approaches to producing wood projects of quality and beauty.
Ed was a deep thinker and life-long learner whose curiosity was boundless. He was outgoing and intelligent, and had no hesitancy in engaging in conversation with anyone. Those fortunate enough to talk with him appreciated his respect for and sincere interest in them. He simply loved people and accepted all without reservation. He also loved to travel. His open-minded, curious, and generous nature enriched each trip, not only for him but for his travel companions as well, and they were frequently surprised to have Ed recognized by others in the most unlikely far-off places.
In case we are left with an impression of saintliness, we should be mindful of Ed’s wicked sense of humour, his ability to stir the pot, and poke the bear in any social occasion, walking away from the ensuing chaos with a twinkle in his eye and a subtle grin.
Ed, you touched so many people and you will be profoundly missed by all of us.
A memorial mass for Ed will be held on Friday, May 19, 11 am, in Saint Mary’s Church in Big Pond. Reception to follow at the Big Pond Fire Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Big Pond Fire Department by email transfer to [email protected].
