CECIL HAROLD EDWARDS
February 13, 1915 - April 30, 2012
Peacefully, at his home as he wished on Monday, April 30th, 2012.
Son of William John Edwards and Sophia McCoy Edwards of North Bay. Loving and devoted husband of Isabel Grey Kennedy Edwards (predeceased on August 24th, 1980). Beloved father of Lorna Ann Genereaux of Salt Lake City. Proud Grandfather of Lauren and Les Patterson of Salt Lake City. Fun loving Great Grandfather of Kade, Devyn, Autumn and Sydnee. Father of Garry Harold Edwards. He was predeceased by his siblings, Ruggust, Marion and Ethel and infant baby brother Clarence.
Raised in North Bay, in 1935 as an avid sportsman and athlete Cecil was recruited to Kirkland Lake to play ball and hockey and was then offered employment in the gold mines. He played for the Black Cats in North Bay and in 1975 he retired as conductor from the Canadian Pacific Railway after 34 years of loyal service. He was also the conductor on “The Canadian” train which he had many fond memories of this elite train. Cecil was instrumental in the fund raising for the new arena in North Bay (Memorial Gardens). He, also held fund raisers, get-togethers in his backyard for the Kiwanis playground on First Avenue East, North Bay in the early 1950’s. Cecil was a figure skating judge in the late 1940’s and a scout for the Markham Waxers hockey team in the early 1980’s. He was a devoted son and caregiver to his parents and his mother-in-law (Ella Kennedy). Cecil was a member of the Calvin Presbyterian Church, North Bay, a life member of the Nipissing Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. # 420, North Bay, North Bay Lodge of Perfection, North Bay Chapter of Rose Croix, Moore Sovereign Consistory, Hamilton, Rameses Shrine Temple, Toronto and Sheba Shrine Club of Barrie.
An expression of gratitude and gratefulness for the care given by his friends and neighbors, the Hodgin’s, Harris’ and Clarke’s and his faithful doctor of 32+ years, Dr. Frederick B. Smith. A special thank you to Glenna in Dr. Smith’s office and St. Elizabeth’s for their kindness, care and support, and the Red Cross Services.
Resting at the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley Street, Barrie, on Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Masonic Service will be held in the Chapel at 2 p.m.
A service of his life’s celebration will follow, with Rev. Doug Crocker officiating. Reception to follow. A private cremation will be held with internment at Terrace Lawn Cemetery, North Bay, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, donations to Canadian Shrine Hospital or a charity of choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences at www.steckleygooderham.com.