Obituary of John Augustus O'Neill

John Augustus O’Neill, 80 Bridgeport/Glace Bay It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of John Augustus O’Neill at home, on February 23, 2021 at the age of 80. Born in Glace Bay NS, John was the son of the late Bill and Catherine O’Neill. John had an extensive work history; he worked in #26 Colliery, Sydney Steel Plant, he served 30 years with the Canadian Armed Forces (3 years with the Regular Forces, 27 years with the Reserve Forces), where he retired as a regimental Sergeant Major 2nd BN NS Highlanders CB, and lastly, the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission (29 yrs.) from which he retired as Cape Breton Regional Manager. John was a 54-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 3, GB; former member of the GB Planning Advisory Committee and was also on the GB Community Futures Committee. He was a member of the Kinsmen K-40 Club, and was first Vice- President, Board of Directors, of the former GB Modern Co–op. John had a passion for the rights of workers and was involved with the United Mine Workers & Steel Workers Unions. He was a former Provincial President of Local 470 of the Canadian Labour Congress, and Local 1670 of the NS Government Employees Union. John was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends cooking a feast. He and Francine enjoyed yearly trips to warm destinations which he would spend weeks planning. In the spring he would start preparing for camping season at their seasonal lot in Englishtown. He also loved to tinker in his garage listening to his favorite tunes and sharing his home brews with friends and neighbors. John is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Francine (Cote); Sons, Sean (Shelley) NB, Liam (Angela) BC; Daughters Nancy (at home), Adele (Lee) BC, Anita (John) BC & Lisa, BC, as well as the family dog Bailee. John is also survived by his sisters Ann (Paul) Evans, Peggy (Paul) Stiles, Cecily Roach (Michael). Grandchildren: Katelyn & James O’Neill, Keagan & Shane O’Neill, Rachel & Alex Bannister. Mother-in-law Cassie Cote;Brother’s-in-law Ron and Gerard (Barb) Cote; Sister-in-law Debbie (Kirby) Turner; Aunts, Camella Campbell & Jessie O’Neill; Nieces and nephews, Kelsey, Kale, Danielle, Steven, Eric, Ian, Marsha, Allison, Clara, John, Paula, Debbie, Bradley, Chris, Catherine Ann, and Bobby. Also dear to his heart was his camping family and close neighbours John was predeceased by his parents; Brother Kevin; Sister Clea; Father-in-law Francis Cote; and Sister-in-law Colleen Cote. The family extend thanks to Fred Turnbull for his exceptional efforts, Kirby Turner, EHS, CBRP Const. J Kelly, our neighbors, and family physician Dr. J. Lange. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. (902) 849-4199 Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 14,2021 from 4-6 p.m.A Funeral Service to be held on Monday, March 15, 2021 at 10 a.m., with Fr. Duaine Devereaux officiating, all taking place at T.J. Tracey Funeral Home, Glace Bay. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com. Due to COVID-19; Seating is limited; Masks and Social Distancing to be adhered to. Thank you.