BRANN, William Calvin - It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of William Calvin Brann on December 1st in his 84th year, at the An Cala Unit in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, following a brief illness. Calvin was born in Donkin on April 8th, 1936, the youngest child of the late Effie (Milley) and William “Scrogie” Brann.
Calvin is survived by his devoted wife of almost 61 years, Jean (Warford), daughter Janis and son-in-law Peter Mombourquette; son Glen and daughter-in-law Ann Campbell; beloved grandchildren Abbey and Julia Mombourquette, and Liam, Maria and Kathleen Brann. Also surviving are sisters Mary (the late Mike) Myketyn, and Lorraine (the late Winston) MacCharles, special niece Lynn Fitzpatrick and several other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings John, Raymond, and Alice, and nephews Tom Myketyn and Donnie MacCharles.
He started his working life at the age of 16 delivering milk by horse and wagon at the Donkin British Canadian Co-op, and worked his way through the ranks of the organization until he became the Operations Manager. He subsequently pursued employment with Nova Scotia Power, and was hired in 1964. He enjoyed his 28 years working as an Industrial Mechanic at Seaboard Power Plant.
Dad treasured his life in Donkin where he was a member of the Donkin Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, The Thistle Lodge #36 Port Morien for 55 years (Past Master) and Saint Luke’s United Church. He was an active member of his community, and in his younger years enjoyed fishing and snowmobiling with his friends, as well as many lobster boils with family and friends. Later, he would be seen daily “walking the loop” with his walking stick. He enjoyed many sports, especially hockey, where he cheered for his Toronto Maple Leafs and Cape Breton Eagles.
In 2006, Dad left Donkin and relocated to Sydney to be closer to family. In his new home he made many new friends who became a very important part of his life, but his heart never left Donkin. Supported by Mom, the VON day program and home care services, he was able to stay at home until his most recent illness.
Dad’s love for Mom and our family was fierce and unwavering. He made many friends, and worked hard on the friendships most special to him. Dad did his best every day and told the truth, whether you were ready to hear it, or not. In these ways, and through the sparkle in his blue eyes, he inspired us, and those who were lucky enough to know him. Sleep easy Dad.
Our family would like to thank Drs. Richler, Fraser, Crosby, Guy and AF D’Intino for their support in Dad’s final days. We would also like to thank City Homemakers, the VON Day Program, and John Bourgeois. Thank you to the staff of 4D at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital and to the staff of An Cala, where Dad was fortunate to spend his final days. Through the course of Dad’s previous illnesses, he had the benefit of significant support from Dr.’s Ley, Cohen, Gammell, Lawand, MacLeod, Thanamayooran, and Shimon. Special thanks to our friends and coworkers who helped us to navigate through Dad’s illness in these past few weeks. Your support will never be forgotten.
Visitation will be held at Patten Funeral Home in Glace Bay on Wednesday December 4th from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm. A celebration of Dad’s life will be held at St. Luke’s United Church in Donkin at 11am on Thursday December 5th, with a reception in the church hall immediately following. Family Interment Service will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation or the VON Day Program. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.pattenfuneral.com.
