Obituary of Pat Burns, Glace Bay

It is with great sadness that the family of Patrick Joseph Burns, age 85 of Glace Bay announce his passing on Monday, August 17, 2020 at the Glace Bay Hospital surrounded by loved ones. Pat (Patty/Paddy) was a life-long resident of Glace Bay having been born and raised in Bridgeport, the son of Patrick and Victoria (Collins) Burns. He was predeceased by his wife of over 50 years, Kay (Barter) Burns, “AKA The Queen”, sisters, Marg, Gladys, Winnie and brothers, Jimmy, George and Bobby. He is survived by his pride and joy, their four children, Kim (Bruce Luke), Cheryl (Archie Gallagher), Todd (Laurie), and Stanley (Brenda). Also survived by grandchildren, Ryan, Patrick, Carson, Christian, Adrienne, Joshua, Jessica, Courtney, Caleigh, Abbie and great grandchildren, Nikolas, Kylan, Abigail, Nolan and Layla, numerous nieces and nephews and his faithful, furry friend, Heidi, whom he adored and vice versa. Dad is also survived by his special friend, Jean Peverill. She has been the joy in his life for the last few years. Not only was she a blessing in dad’s life, but has been and will continue to be one in our lives as well. You are such a treasure, Jean, and loved so very much. Dad was a humble man. His pleasures in life were simple. He loved his visits to the local legion, delicious dinners at the Italian Hall, yearly golf trips with the boys, and, of course, his weekly card games. Prior to his business career, he was a veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy. Dad was the former proprietor of Pat Burns Painting Contractors of Sydney. During the decades of its operation, a source of great pride for all of us, he developed a lasting relationship of love and respect for all with whom he worked, his men and Anne. Dad was a recipient of the Irving Schwartz Business Person of The Year in 2015. Such a proud accomplishment indeed! We have all heard of the old adage, it takes a village to raise a child. Watching dad’s final months, we must also state, “It takes a village to end one’s life journey.” Dad’s umbrella of caregivers and helpers was a precious gift indeed. Megan, from Vital Aire, we saw firsthand the unique relationship and bond you formed with dad. You are very special and thanks for all you did, professionally and personally. Dr. O’Brien and Crystal, thanks for your years of care and service. To the Palliative Care team of doctors, nurses and VON representatives; as our world began to crumble, you entered and surrounded us with a circle of compassion and support that will never be forgotten. Thanks to each and every one of you. To all dad’s “Dears” on 3 East, you are angels on earth. Your compassion, empathy, respect and admiration shown to dad daily and kind words will always remain in our hearts. He was truly blessed to have you in his life in his final days. Thank you so very much! Finally, to all his neighbourhood helpers, we can’t thank you enough. As he relaxed in his sunroom, you did what he no longer could, and we know how much it meant to him and us. If the worth of one’s life can be measured by the lives one touched, dad’s would be priceless. We are so blessed to be his family. Small in stature but mighty in spirit, as dad’s earthly journey comes to an end, we know he knew he will be missed daily and loved always. Cremation has taken place under the direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Glace Bay. A family service will be held at a future date. Online condolences may be sent to: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. Dad held a special affinity for the Neo-Natal Unit at the Regional Hospital, the IWK and the Cancer Centre at the Regional Hospital. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of those noteworthy organizations.