HOWELL, William ‘Willie’ Thomas

Dominion/Whitney Pier

We regret to announce that William Thomas Howell, age 86, passed away at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.

Born in Sydney on July 12, 1930, Willie was the son of the late John and Elizabeth ‘Bessie’ (Butler) Howell and spent most of his life in Whitney Pier.

Willie was a quiet and gentle man who always seen the good in people. He was an avid sports fan always rooting for Toronto Blue Jays, Maple Leafs and Screaming Eagles. He was employed with the City of Sydney, Works Dept. until 1991. Following his retirement, he spent many years travelling. Willie will be missed by all who knew him.

Willie is survived by his special niece, Beverly, along with several other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his companion and longtime friend, Marie Young and her family who affectionately called him ‘Papa Willie’.

Along with his parents, Willie was predeceased by his two brothers, Eddie (Theresa) and Henry (Peggy).

In honouring Willie’s wishes cremation has taken place. Visitation and memorial service to celebrate the life of William Thomas Howell will be held at the Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) on Friday, March 31, 2017. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 1-2 p.m. with service to follow at 2 p.m. in the All Faith Chapel with Pastor Ron Coole officiating. Light refreshments will be served in the funeral home reception area following the service. Interment will take place in Hardwood Hill Cemetery, Sydney at a later date.

Donations may be made to Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County for those wishing to do so in memory of Willie.

Thank you to all doctors and nurses involved with the care of Willie over the past few years. Special thanks to Dr. Ann Frances D’Intino and the staff and volunteers of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, palliative care unit. Your care and compassion for Willie allowed him to pass with great dignity and peace.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be forward to the family at www. pierfuneralhome.com.