Anna Catherine Blakey

Blakey, Anna Catherine (nee Macalder): The family of Anna Blakey (nee Macalder) sadly announces her passing at the Halifax Infirmary on Wednesday, March 16th, 2011 at the age of 85. Anna was born in Halifax on January 21st, 1926 and was the daughter of the late Norman and Christina (MacCrae) Macalder. She was predeceased by her husband Willis (Bill) in September, 2006 after 56 years of marriage. Anna is survived by her five children: Elizabeth (Martin) Litchfield, Sudbury, ON; Mary, Halifax; Alyson (Harold) Hillier, Halifax ; Richard (Christine), Chicago, Ill.; and Graham (Cheryl), Vancouver,BC.; seven grandchildren: Norman (Shona) and William (Joani) Litchfield; Jennifer and Laura Graham; Nadine (Brad) Dillon and Craig Hillier; and Hannah Blakey; and three great-grandchildren: Ailsa, Mirren and Fraser Litchfield. She is also survived by two sisters: Rachel (late Everett) Purcell, Halifax and Pearl (Edward) Tarrant, Truro. She was predeceased by sisters Eleanor Macalder and Norma (James) Hall. In 1940, at the age of 16, Anna began work with Alfred J. Bell Insurance Company and remained there until she and Bill were married in Halifax in 1950 and began their family. Once the children were grown she returned to work on a part-time basis in the accounts office at Eaton’s and then full time until retirement with Zurich Insurance in Halifax. Ann’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. She will be lovingly remembered by family and friends for her outgoing personality and her welcoming kitchen. She was glad to see her children and her grandchildren bring their friends home and was always prepared to add another plate or two at the table when anyone arrived. Ann’s health deteriorated over the past ten years, but she persevered through the adversity and right up until the end of her life she continued to maintain the dignity and strength of character that had always made her a special person. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 19 from 2-3 p.m. with service following at 3 p.m. all in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax (902) 455-0531. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be made to the Canadian Red Cross for Japanese Tsunami Relief or to a charity of your choice. Please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com