Obituary of Bernard Joseph O’Brien

Bernard Joseph O’Brien September 18th was Dad’s earthly birthday and June 15th his heavenly one – the day he was reunited with the love of his life, our Mom. Those of you who knew our Dad will remember his twinkling blue eyes and infectious smile. Dad loved animals, a good game of crib, sports and, above all, family. He enjoyed swinging on the front porch and chatting with friends. He was also a proud pipefitter and his travels for work afforded him the opportunity to meet many people who became lifelong friends. An accomplished fastball pitcher, Bernie played with the Bay Boys, the Scotchtown Raiders and coached the Gardiner Royals. He was also a past member of the St. James Men’s Club and honourary member of the Dominion Hawks Club. He is predeceased by his loving wife, Ann (Turnbull), parents Michael and Cora O’Brien, brother Mickey, chosen sister Nora, and Jeanette (Ray) Ouellet, who was like a daughter to him. He is also predeceased by Ann’s parents (James and Jessie Turnbull), brothers-in-law (Eddie Turnbull, Edison Boutilier and Bernie Campbell), sisters-in-law (Lorretta Donnahue, Mary MacLeod, Gail Turnbull, Yvonne Turnbull, Diane Turnbull and Margie O’Brien), and nephew (Jamie Turnbull). Left with precious memories are his children Wanda (Mel), Cordell (Tricia), Sheldon (Rose), Sheila (Kevin); grandchildren Rick (Amanda), Melissa (Luke), Caitlin, Liam (Garrett), Brendan, Kenzie (Adam); great-grand children Chase, Cruze, special niece and nephew Chantal and Marcell and many other relatives and friends. Bernie is also survived by his fur pals Flash, Charlie and Missy. A special thank you to his home-care friends (Peggy, Cathy, Kim, Barbie) and the staff of An Cala Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at T.J. Tracey’s Funeral Home 370 Reserve Street, Glace Bay, NS. Visitation 1-3 pm followed by a memorial service and reception. Donations may be made to the Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.