Obituary of John (Backie) Francis Tonary, New Waterford

It is with profound sadness and loss that we, the family, announce the peaceful passing of John "Backie" Francis Tonary on November 27, 2024 at home surrounded by his loving and devoted family. John celebrated his 70^th year on November 8.

Johnnie was born in New Waterford to the late David and Sarah Tonary, on Nov 8, 1954. He was a true family man who adored his two children and lived for his four grandchildren.

John was employed in the past with DEVCO, Cape Breton Offshores, and Nova Scotia Power as a welder. He was also a proud member of the New Waterford Fire Department for 15 years.

There was nothing Johnnie loved more than playing guitar surrounded by his family and friends. He loved to have a good time and was known for his own personal way of blending songs together seamlessly. Some of his favorite times were spent when he and Myrna could get out for a good long ride on his motorcycle and attending the Hot August Nights with his baby; his '93 Chevy Truck. In Johnnie’s words, “Right on!”

Left to mourn his passing is the love of his life, his wife of 43 years, Myrna (MacLeod) Tonary; son, Jon Tonary (Crissy); daughter, Sara Tonary (Jon); grandsons, Loki, Dalys, Kooper, and Harrisen. He also leaves a void in the lives of his brothers, Michael Tonary (Sandra), Fr. David Tonary, Robert Tonary (Sharon);  sister-in-law, Olive Tonary;  brothers-in-law, Ray MacLeod (Sharon), and Ernie Deveaux.

Besides his parents, Johnnie was predeceased by brother, James, and sister, Heather; mother and father-in-law, Liz and Ray (Babe) MacLeod.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 6-9 p.m. in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. A Funeral Mass of celebration will take place Thursday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. in the Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mount Carmel Avenue, with Father Jim Oliver officiating and Father David Tonary concelebrating. Burial will be in St. Michael's cemetery, River Ryan, with reception to follow in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County or a charity of one's choice. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. 

THANK YOU

It is with heartfelt gratitude that we, the family of the late John (Backie) Tonary would like to thank all those who offered condolences, cards, food, gifts during our time of sorrow. Your thoughtfulness shall never be forgotten. To the staff of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home for their outstanding services and professionalism. To Father Jim Oliver, Father David Tonary (Johnnie’s brother), and Father Godwin Obike for the beautiful mass. To the choir and soloist, Nipper MacLeod, for the music. 

Finally, to Palliative Care and New Waterford Continuing Care for their care and comfort of Johnnie during his illness. 

Please continue to keep kindness in your heart always.

- The Tonary family