Dad was known for his height. At 6 foot 7 (or 6 foot 9 on skates) you tend to stand out in a crowd. He holds true to his family name Grant meaning tall or large. Dad was also known as being a Gentle Giant and like his stature, he had an enormous heart and was tremendously humble. His favourite role to take on was Grandpa and his three Lady Bugs and Little Man were his pride and joy. Dad was a family man, devoted to being a husband, father and grandfather. His family meant the world to him and he always felt better knowing that everyone else was doing well. He called nightly to check in to make sure the Grandkids were happy.
Dad was the oldest son of his late parents, Art and Gwen Grant of Steeles Hill, Glace Bay. Growing up he would often be found at the baseball field or the rink skating to a good waltz. Dad’s first job was working at the CO-OP in Glace Bay. He then moved on to the SNL, security at the Steel Plant and finally retired from the CNR as a carpenter in 1993. He was a community activist, a strong supporter of unions, advocated for the underdog and was a life long member of the NDP. Dad enjoyed spending time at the cabin in Ironville, hunting, fishing, watching Toronto Maple Leaf games, enjoying time with his family and friends and his storytelling was his way of sharing the things that were most important to him. Most recently he loved getting out for drives in his van.
Dad is survived by his wife Imelda (Gillis), daughters Carrie Grant, Shannan Grant and Meaghan Grant-Bennett, sons-in-law Mike Trumbull and Jonathan Bennett and four grandchildren Neelie, Larken, Aodhan and Fable Mae. He is also survived by his siblings Lorne Grant (Geraldine), Harriet Ann Castaldo (Joe), Keith (Sharon), Alex Grant and Sheldon Grant (Fiona) and his brothers and sister by choice, Kevin MacDonald (Mary Beth), Eldon MacDonald (Kim) and Glenda MacDonald along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his very special aunt and uncle Alex and Kay MacDonald who contributed to his up bringing greatly, sisters-in-law Jeanette Grant and Sister Judy Gillis and brothers-in-law Marty Gillis and Carlin Kennedy and long time friend Papa Dan MacSween.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the medical staff on the An Cala unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. An Cala is Gaelic for safe harbour and it was indeed that for Dad and our family during our time there. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County.
Visitation will take place at TW Curry Parkview Chapel on Tuesday November 2, 2021 from 1-2pm, with a service commencing at 2pm.
Proof of vaccination & masks are required. To leave memories or condolences please visit www.twcurry.com
Dad, just like you always said, we “loves ya a ton” you old sock!
