Obituary of Ellen Cecilia Aucoin

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful, kind Mom and Nan on October 4, 2023. Mom was born February 9, 1933, in Sydney, Nova Scotia. She was a daughter of the late Wilfred and Mary (Power) Howard, Mira Road. Mom had many fond memories of growing up on Mira Road which were reflected in her stories shared with loved ones. In her younger years, Mom worked at the Sugar Bowl, Crowell’s, and other stores in the Sydney area. During the same period, she met a persistent young man at Rotary Park that resulted in a loving marriage of 64 years. Later they moved to Hills Road, Albert Bridge, where they enjoyed many years together. Family meant everything to Mom, and she was happy to be at the center of every holiday, birthday and milestone celebrated in her home. You could not get away without a hug and multiple waves from her doorway. Spending time with her grandchildren always brightened her days. Mom was loved by all who met her with her caring ways and sweet smile. She loved to keep busy, picking blueberries and tending to her many gardens of which she was very proud. She was known for her beautiful homemade bread and other tasty treats which quickly disappeared. She enjoyed working with her husband and sons on the Aucoin Family Tree Farm, where she developed a bond with many families. It meant everything to Mom to stay in her home as long as possible. She maintained her home until her recent illness, then went to reside with her daughter Cathy, until her passing. Mom is survived by her sons, Allan (Heather), Tom (Sandra); daughters, Cathy (Kevin) Elworthy and Stacy (Jeff) Landry; grandchildren Stefanie and Matthew (Laura) Elworthy, Emma and Chloe Landry; sister and best friend, Joan Smith; brothers, Wilfred “Butch” Howard and George Howard (Joanne); special nephew, Jerry Travis (Norma) who held a special place in her heart, brother-in-law Gerald Buckland, along with several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, mom was predeceased by her husband, Donald, sisters Catherine Howard, Karen Howard, Harriet Beardmore, Gladys Travis, Rose Buckland and brother Donnie Howard. Ellie was also predeceased by brothers-in-law, Al Beardmore, Milt Smith, and Gerald Travis Sr. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the doctors and nurses of the palliative care service, particularly Brett Gillis who went above and beyond for our mom. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Palliative Care - Hospice Cape Breton. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, 902-539-7175. As per mom’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A private family service will be held at a later date. Words of condolence may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. "A mother holds her children's hands for a while, their hearts forever."