Obituary of William Michael Crane

William Michael Crane, 82, of Sydney River (formerly of Island View), passed away August 18 at Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Born in Sydney, Bill was a son of Arthur and Mary Ann (MacKinnon) Crane. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many. Bill was raised on Victoria Rd. After building his family's home in Island View and enjoying it for many years, Bill moved to Sydney River; he met very special neighbors there, and greatly appreciated the new friendships forged at "The Estate". Prior to retirement, Bill worked in construction as a truck driver; he remained busy after retiring-becoming caretaker of several properties in the community and working on various projects in his workshop. He was happiest when he was outdoors-he took great pride in caring for his home and property and was always prepared to offer peanuts to his chipmunk neighbors. Bill had a special place in his heart for animals; he had many beloved pets over the years, and he will be missed by his little dog, Tish. Bill is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary (MacPhee); one brother, Rod (Loretta); three sons, Michael, Lorne (Deneca Pelley), and Stephen; one daughter, Mary Ann (Aldon Snow); grandchildren, Taylor (Shelby), Taryn (Dylon), and Mason; four great-grandchildren, Wednesday, Jasper, Bennett, and Aubrey; sister-in-law Judy, and many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents, as well as siblings; Joe, Mary (Glessing), Arthur, Stan, Michael, and Kenny. Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to Cape Breton Palliative Care. Cremation has taken place under the care & direction of TJ Tracey Cremation & Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, 902-539-7175. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 23 from 9-11 am in T.J. Tracey Funeral Home with a service at 11 am in the Chapel, Fr. Anthony O’Connor officiating, reception to follow. Interment at St Mary's Cemetery (East Bay). Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on, And cherished memories never fade Because a loved one's gone. Those we love can never be More than a thought apart, For as long as there is memory, They'll live on in the heart.