Michael Blair Matheson, 76

Dominion, N.S.

It is with heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the peaceful passing of Michael Blair Matheson, 76, of Dominion, NS. Blair “Mike” passed away on October 29 with his devoted wife and caregiver, Germaine Matheson, and his daughter Angela by his side. Born in Glace Bay to the late Murdoch and Ida Matheson, he grew up in New Aberdeen, where he lived in the Matheson family home on Sixth Street for most of his life.

Known for his union leadership, Blair spent most of his career with the Town of Glace Bay Public Works Department, and later with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. His passion for politics was matched by his wit, both incredibly sharp and outrageously funny. He made everyone laugh harder than they ever had before. He was known by many as the “unofficial opposition,” holding all foreign and domestic governments to account on radio open line shows. He had a fierce love of the Montreal Canadiens and enjoyed several live games in Montreal over the years. Blair also found great joy in the outdoors and especially loved camping, most recently in Big Pond, where he enjoyed ‘sing songs’ around the campfire. He had perfect pitch on the harmonica.

Blair “Da” will be lovingly remembered by his wife Germaine and children Angela Paulin (Geoff), Troy Matheson (Marg), and Tanya Matheson (Ray). He is also survived by his sisters Dolores Young, Ethel Tennant, Bernadette (Bill) Dixon, Ida (Ron) Winstanley, Bev Matheson, and Maria (Jimmy) Tutty, as well as his brothers Wayne (Josie) Matheson, Bernie (Lois) Matheson, and Reeves (Valerie) Matheson as well as several grandchildren and many close in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He is grateful for the special friendship and support of Bernie and Lois, Reeves and Valerie, Angela and Geoff, Kathy and Brad Gilbert, The Gillis Family, his camping buddies in Big Pond, and Germaine’s family throughout his illness.

Our utmost gratitude to the medical teams who provided compassionate care during his illness.

Along with his parents, Blair was predeceased by a sister Carmella “Cammy” Gillis; brothers Gerald, Paul, Owen, Harold (Sonny), Jimmy, and Raymond (Mick) Matheson; in-laws Barry Gillis (Sr), Yvonne Matheson, Judy Matheson, John Young, and John Tennant.

In keeping with Blair’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the care and compassion of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. 902-849-4199. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time.

To share words of condolences, please visit our website at www.tjtracey.com.