FIANDER, Llewellyn Thomas
North Sydney
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, brother, grandfather, step-father, step-grandfather, step greatgrandfather and friend, Llewellyn Thomas Fiander on Monday, September 11, 2017, at home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Sydney Mines on June 2, 1938, he was the only son of the late Llewellyn and Lillian (Way) Fiander. Known by his business colleagues and later in life by “Lew”, growing up and as a young man his family and friends referred to him as “Lewie”, which always made him smile.
Lew had a dedicated career in finance as the General Manager of the New Waterford Credit Union, serving the people of the community and later advocating as a member of the Board of Directors at North Sydney. He had a passion for sports and was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Red Wings and the Dodgers; both in Brooklyn and Los Angeles. The love of the game came naturally. With the guidance of his uncle, he started playing baseball and hockey at a young age and photos often showed him sporting a jersey. Later, he was proud to coach many young men on the Northside and continue to be part of the action. He was an enthusiastic storyteller; telling tales that entertained and made us laugh in the moment and for many years following. Throughout years and distance his most cherished moments were with his family. Reviewing the scores, teaching us about business, looking at pictures, and sharing his most valued possessions; passing them on to bring pleasure for years to come. But by far, one of his greatest pleasures was spending time with his grandsons. ‘Papa’ had a positive influence on their lives by devoting time and support. He was delighted when they chose to play sports or pursue a career in business and was very proud of the young men they’ve become.
He had a great appreciation for both history and current events and had the privilege to travel to many parts of the world. Most recently those travels included Western Europe, where he enjoyed the culture, music and beauty of the countries and to Los Angeles to see his beloved Dodgers play their greatest rival; the San Francisco Giants. He beamed like a child during those games, and said it was a dream come true to be there in person.
His kindness, guidance and support as the patriarch of our family will be forever treasured.
He was proud to be a 3rd degree knight of Santa Maria Council 2024 Knights of Columbus, Sydney Mines, a 4th degree knight of the Fr. William B. MacLeod Assembly, Sydney, a chartered member of the Kinsmen Club, and a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Bras d’Or.
Lew is survived by his wife, Joan (LeBlanc); three daughters, Debbie (Reg) Cantwell, Wendy (Barry Stephenson) Fiander, Susan (Mike) Samson; three grandchildren, Nathan, Andrew and Samuel; sister, Georgene Fiander (niece Kiera MacCormick); uncle, Reverend Russell Way; stepchildren and families, Denise (Steve & Brian) MacDonald, Brian (Linda, Sarah (Duncan Strathearn), Erik (Elaina & Fynnley) LeBlanc; sisters-in-law, Rita MacRae, Yvonne Farnsworth; brothersin-law, Bryan (Geraldine) Cullen, Jim (Marguerite) Cullen, Rene (Ann) Patry; many nieces, nephews, and close friends.
Besides his parents, Lew was predeceased by his devoted wife of 36 years, Edna (Cullen) Fiander; a special niece, Carol Ann Guy; sister-in-law, Teresa (Lovie) Pyke; brothers-in-law, John MacCormick, Maurice Pyke, Carl MacRae and Cliff Farnsworth.
Special thanks to the Northside General Hospital 4West Nursing staff, with special mention to Tracy and Taylor.
There will be no visitation. A funeral mass to celebrate “Lewie’s” life will take place Friday, September 15, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph Church, Bras d’Or with Father Peter McLeod officiating. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Cape Breton University Nursing Department, supporting the future of great nurses who have had such an impact on his life.
Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www. jmjobesfuneralhome.com.