Obituary of Wilson J. Tighe, New Victoria

It is with deep sadness and heartache we announce the peaceful passing of  Wilson J. Tighe, age 71, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital with his two cherished daughters and best friends, Denise and Danielle, holding his hand. 

Born in New Waterford, Wilson was the son of the late Wallace and Joyce (Murphy) Tighe. 

Wilson grew up in a large family "down at the Lake" and when he was 15, he went to work as a cook's help in Port Hawkesbury. Eventually, he became a pipefitter/plumber and was a member of local 682 for over 50 years until his retirement. Wilson's life was marked by his unwavering love and dedication to his family. He was our protector and superhero in so many ways and was the true meaning of a good man. Wilson enjoyed 4-wheeling with grandson Nick and friends and of course having a beer with the boys on Saturday night. Nick was always included to be one of the boys; his Da Tighe made sure of it.

Wilson always took pride in his yard and kept it "neat as a pin". He also loved his 1970 SS-Chevelle, which was recently done over, and vacationing in PEI with family. 

Wilson is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 37 years, Debbie (Ruelland) Tighe. They were blessed with two daughters, Denise (Roger) and Danielle; his precious granddaughter, Bria, whom he adored and wanted so much for her. His grandson, Nick, was his sidekick. More recently, he was blessed with a great-grandson, Leland, whom he adored; Da Tighe's baby.

Wilson is also survived by brothers, Wallace (Cathy), Bobby (Nancy), Daniel " Bubbles", Catherine (Joe), Valerie, all of New Victoria, Bev (Wayne), Marilyn, Darlene, all in PEI; sister-in-law, Darlene Leudy (Harry); brother-in-law, Walter MacDonald; Danny and Jean Ruelland. 

Wilson had many friends he loved, namely, Stan Eksal, who he would take for drives every Sunday.

Besides his parents, Wilson was predeceased by brothers, Buddy Bars, Billy Brushett; in-laws, Joseph and Dorothy Ruelland; nephew, Ivan and nieces Joy and Angela; also by friend and cousin, Frankie Fahey.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 28 from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at 1 p.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Deacon Lorne MacNeil officiating. Reception will follow at the KOC, New Waterford. Donations in his memory may be made to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre, Sydney. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. 

I would like to thank doctors, nurses, OT/PT CCA's, housekeeping, dietary,and sitters, most notably Christy and Shey, who went above and beyond. Special thank you to my sister-in-law, Cathy Tighe, who was my supportive person since the last year. 

Your forever love, Debbie

"I'm not always right, but I'm never wrong!"