Obituary of Leo Jessome

Frederick “Leo” Jessome, 74 Glace Bay We are saddened to announce the passing of Frederick “Leo” Jessome at Glace Bay Hospital on November 22, 2021, surrounded by the love of his family. Our dad was a kind soul; loved by many and made connections with people everywhere he went. Dad was a lifelong Bay Boy, except for the short excursion where he followed his love, Sylvia, to Toronto. He stayed there long enough to get married, have their first child and travel back home to settle down in Glace Bay. Today Leo has been reunited with his darling Sylvia (Acker) in heaven where we are confident, they are dancing; something they loved to do. Dad loved Cape Breton culture and ensured his children had opportunities to be influenced, attending concerts and weekend fiddle festivals whenever possible. He was sure to tape such concerts so that the family could listen continuously - until the tapes mysteriously disappeared. Dad had a vivid mind, was well read and deeply knowledgeable. He was referred to by one of his children as a walking encyclopedia. He loved discussing world events and political history and enjoyed stirring conversation. It was extremely hard for him, but Dad managed the challenges of Alzheimer’s with grace and trust of his children. Dad loved his time on the Mira and he and Sylvia had so many wonderful memories of times there with friends. While in Ontario Dad worked at Sudbury Nickel Mine and drove streetcar for TCC. Once back in Cape Breton Dad acquired his grandfather’s trucking disposal business and operated such while working as an oil delivery driver and later, a Brakeman for DEVCO. He was a hard worker providing for his family, impacting his children and others with his impeccable work ethic. After his first retirement Dad worked at the Windsor Railroad to be closer to his granddaughters. He next Worked in Alberta so that he could spend time with his twin grandsons. He next worked with the Manitoba Grain Train seasonally for fourteen years. Leo was the first-born son of Freddy and Theresa (Cook) Jessome. He was predeceased by his parents and his younger brother Raymond (Fluff) and was the last remaining member of his family. He grew up in the community of Number 2 and lived most of his life there – always a staunch supporter of community and had a reputation of a person who would do anything he could to help another. Leo was an active member of Kinsmen’s and Y’s Men’s and volunteered with Vince Ryan Hockey Tournament for many years. In his retirement Leo volunteered with Glace Bay Heritage Society and with the breakfast program at a local school. Left to celebrate his life are his children, Trish (George) of Middle Sackville, Danny (of Saskatchewan) Leo (Krista) of Truro. He was an outstanding Papa and will be so missed by his grandchildren Chris, Tyler, Jordan, Quinn, Alyssa, Aaron, Isabelle and his great grandchildren Leland and Sadie. Leo is also survived by his sisters- in- law and brother-in-law and their families, as well as many cousins. The quality of care provided to our dad at Glace Bay Hospital by both 3rd floor and 4th floor care teams was superb and left us knowing he was respected and loved. We are so grateful for the way you cared for Dad. The Family Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to T.J. Tracey Funeral Home, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. 902.849.4199. Visitation will be Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021, at 1 PM and Funeral Service at 2 PM, with Fr. Norman McPhee presiding. Reception to follow the service, in the reception area. Burial will be at St John’s Cemetery, Wallace Rd., Glace Bay. Words of comfort may be expressed to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. COVID-19 Regulations; Masks are mandatory; Proof of Double Vaccine and Identification must be presented prior to Visitation and Funeral Service. Thank you. In Loving Memory Dad He never looked for praises He was never one to boast He just went on quietly working For the ones he loved the most. His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the time his worries Went unspoken too. He was there… A firm foundation Through all our storms of life A sturdy hand to hold on to In times of stress and strife A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad One of our greatest blessings The man that we called Dad.