CLUNEY, Reginald Andrew
Age 92, of Halifax, NS, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024, at the QEII Infirmary. Reg is predeceased by Marie (Macdonald), his beloved wife of 46 years. He is survived by his three children, Bruce (Kendra Purdon), Joan and Mark (Erin Cluney), and his four granddaughters, Lauren, Rachel, Kaitlin and Alexis.
Reg was born January 1, 1932, in Halifax to Wilfred and Eileen Cluney. He graduated from St. Patrick’s High School and Dalhousie University (1949-1955). A standout athlete, he played many sports but excelled in tennis and football. Notably, he led the football Tigers to the Purdy Cup league championship in 1951 and 1954, earning the Duffus trophy as league MVP in 1951 and the Purdy Cup Championship MVP in 1954. He ranked third all-time for the Tigers in scoring, and in 1955, he received the Climo Trophy as Dalhousie's athlete of the year. Reg was inducted into the Dalhousie Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.
After graduating from Dal with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Law Degree, Reg started his law career at Mcinnis Cooper & Roberston, where he spent his entire career until his retirement in 2007. Reg was an accomplished litigator, having argued cases at the trial and appellate level, including several times before the Supreme Court of Canada.
While at Mcinnes Cooper, a twist of fate brought Reg in contact with Marie, who worked as his secretary. Clearly, Reg liked her work, as they married within a year. Reg and Marie quickly prioritized having a family together and spent many happy years at their home on Homecrest Terrace. Reg and Marie enjoyed spending time at the family cottage in Arisaig and travelling to Europe and Florida for many years. Later, they moved to Anchor Drive, where they loved socializing with longtime friends, particularly the members of the Gourmet Club.
Reg was a man of profound spiritual depth, unwavering patience, and genuine humility. Reg's thoughtful nature and calm demeanour spoke volumes about his character. He was respected by all who knew him, a testament to his quiet strength and genuine kindness. As a loving father, he exemplified steady devotion and care. Reg was deeply interested in his children’s sporting pursuits, spending countless hours at hockey, football and basketball games, badminton tournaments and swimming competitions.
In later years, Reg dedicated his time to various endeavours that were meaningful to him. He was instrumental in establishing the St. Bonaventure Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order in September 2001, a symbol of his steadfast dedication to the Franciscan way of life. He held various leadership roles within the community and was presented with the Certificate of Establishment for his contributions. Alongside Fr. Roberto Donato, Reg played a pivotal role in founding the Diocesan Franciscan Society. Reg was also involved in restoring the Dalhousie football program to competition in the Atlantic Football League in 2010. He took pride in watching the Black & Gold compete on the gridiron once again. In addition, Reg spent countless hours volunteering at the Daily Bread Outreach program at St. Mary’s Basilica, helping to feed people in need. His legacy of service and devotion will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched.
A visitation for Reginald will be held Wednesday, March 13, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, NS B3S 0E1. A memorial service will occur Thursday, March 14, at 2 p.m. at St. Agnes Church, 6903 Mumford Road, Halifax, NS B3L 2H4. A reception to follow will occur. In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcome to the Society of Vincent de Paul. Words of comfort and online condolences can be forwarded through: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com