James Terrence Kirwin

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, husband, and grandfather, Capt. (Ret.) James Terence Kirwin of Dartmouth who left us on October 26, 2010. Born in Montreal, Quebec in 1941 he was the only son (adopted) of the late Ernest and Mae (Collins) Kirwin. Sadly, he was never able to connect with his birth mother, Constance Dickie. Dad joined the military as an ordinary seaman sonar man in 1961 and quickly decided he wanted to be a pilot. He completed his pilot training in 1965 and flew Trackers. In the late 60’s he was posted to the Shearwater Air Force Base where he flew Sea Kings and Hueys among other aircraft. He was always very proud of his service in the military with over 5800 flying hours both on and off naval vessels. Dad served on HMCS Cayuga, HMCS Huron, HMCS Athabaskan, HMCS Bonaventure and finally HMCS Assiniboine as Flight Commander. He rounded the end of his military career as a flight instructor. Dad was pleased to re-enlist in the military as a reservist when asked in the late 80’s and retired a second time from military life in 1991. His career after retirement was varied and included building houses, work with cars, electronics, the postal service, wood working and as a minor actor in some locally filmed movies like Cadillac Girls and Lifeline to War. His friends and neighbours will remember Terry as Mr. Fix It, and the guy who had any of the tools you would ever need. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Darlene (MacDonald), two daughters Sherry, Halifax and Kimberly (Sullivan), Dartmouth, son in laws Denis and Grant, and grandson Conner.

Cremation has taken place, under the direction of J.A Snow Funeral Home, Halifax with no visitation or funeral at his request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. For on-line condolences, please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com