Obituary of Louis Isadore Brufatto, Glace Bay

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Louis Isadore Brufatto, age 94, on May 29, 2025, at his home in Glace Bay, NS.

Louis was born in Glace Bay to the late Isadore and Agnes (MacNeil) Brufatto and was the eldest of 11 siblings.

He was known to all as a quiet, gentle man with a kind and loving heart for both people and animals. His kindness earned him the nickname “Sweet Lou” within the community. Louis was a proud, honest, and respectful man who treasured family above all, especially his beloved wife, Norma, their ten children, 26 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren.

A self-taught musician, Louis played the accordion, guitar, and his favourite instrument, the mandolin. His musical talents were cherished by family and friends and will long be remembered through the many joyful gatherings hosted in his and Norma’s home.

Louis had a zest for life. His hobbies included gentlemen’s hockey, adult skating, motorcycling, and playing pool. In his later years, he found joy in watching tennis and classic movies. Remarkably, he continued skating and riding his motorcycle well into his 80s.

He worked nearly 40 years as a coal miner, and in his earlier years, also grew and sold vegetables to local Glace Bay stores. He worked tirelessly to provide for what mattered most, his family.

Louis is survived by his children, Donald Brufatto, Diane Smith, Jim (Bev) Brufatto, Pauline (John) Coolen, David Brufatto, Patricia Brufatto, and Brenda Clements; sons-in-law, Chris MacNeil and Rick McKinnon; 25 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings, Catherine (Kay) Boutilier, Gerald (Shirley) Brufatto, and Harold (Elaine) Brufatto; and in-laws, Wilfred Doucette, Dorothy Brufatto, Dan Butts, Gordon Tutty, Dinah Conron, Arthur (Maureen) Moore, and Carolyn (Hans) Hansen.

He was predeceased by his wife, Norma (Moore); daughters Barbara Yates, Jeanette MacNeil, and Irene McKinnon; granddaughter Tayler McKinnon; daughter-in-law Darlene (McIsaac) Brufatto; sons-in-law Francis Yates, Gerry O’Donnell, Kevin Smith, and Terry Clements; sisters Rita Doucette, Jean Tutty, Carolann Butts, and Theresa Brufatto; brothers Alex (Bubby) Brufatto, John Brufatto, and Robert Brufatto; and in-laws Lawrence (Larry) Boutilier, Ralph Moore, Margie Moore, and Michael Conron.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Louis’s sons David and Jim, and daughter-in-law Bev, who lovingly cared for him and ensured he could remain in the comfort of his home during his final months.

Special thanks also go to Father Norman MacPhee, who visited and prayed with Louis at home. A devout Catholic, Louis held Father Norman in the highest esteem and often spoke of him with deep respect and affection.

Lastly, the family is deeply grateful to Fely MacNeil, who faithfully drove Louis to church every Sunday over the past several years.

Louis will be remembered for his unwavering love, gentle spirit, and the warmth he brought to everyone who knew him.

Visitation is Sunday evening, June 1^st from 6-8 pm in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay.

The funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday at 11 am in Holy Cross Church, Glace Bay followed by interment in St. Anthony's cemetery, Fr. Norman MacPhee presiding.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.vjmcgillivray.ca