GARTLAND, William Gerard
It is with sadness that we announce the death of William Gerard Gartland, on December 24, 2017, after a courageous, and lengthy, battle with cancer.
Gerry spent most of his adult life in Louisbourg, NS, where he worked for National Sea Products for 46 years. He was a leader in the community, taking pride in his role as councilor of the Town of Louisbourg, and member of the Town of Louisbourg School Board. Until recently, he remained an active member of the Louisbourg Volunteer Ambulance Society. He spent many years as a member of the Louisbourg Volunteer Fire Department, and held leadership positions in numerous organizations including the Navy League of Canada, Lions Club, Louisbourg Playhouse, Louisbourg Tourism Committee and the Louisbourg Lighthouse Committee.
Left behind to remember and celebrate his legacy are, wife, Christina; children, Beryl (Wilson) Eavis, Rose (James) Cormier and Paul (Gisèle) Gartland. He loved and admired his grandchildren, Victoria, Simon, Michael, Christina, Sarah, Hannah and Marcus. He is also survived by sister, Nina (Roger) Taylor, and brother, Kenneth (Sharon) Gartland, as well as Isabelle and Donald Cross, and Stan and Pat Baldock, neighbours by chance, family by choice.
He was predeceased by his parents, Nora and Leo T. Gartland; sister, Mary and granddaughter, Heather Lynn Cormier (in infancy).
Music was an important part of Gerry’s life, and he was blessed with an appreciation for all types of music. To the very end of his life, he enjoyed and found peace and serenity in listening to Christmas carols, to mark his most favourite time of the year. Special thanks to Jill Murphy for sharing her gift of musical companionship.
His main pride and joy was watching his children and grandchildren growing up to be fine citizens and credits to their communities.
At Gerry’s request, there will be no visitation. Funeral Mass will take place at 11 a.m. at Stella Maris Parish, Louisbourg on Wednesday, December 27. Father Evo DiPierro to officiate.
There will be a gathering at the Louisbourg Fire Hall following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the An Cala Palliative Care Unit, the Music Therapy program with Hospice, the CNIB, the VON, or the Canadian Cancer Society.
Heartfelt thanks to the nurses of the VON and Palliative Care, especially Helen Sweeney and Holly Winn, and the physicians who have provided compassionate care on his journey.
For all the love and laughter, “T’anks ma b’y”.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www. chantfuneralhome.ca.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of...