Obituaries

In his 75th year, dad passed away with family by his side, at Arborstone Enhanced Care, Halifax, NS, from Parkinson’s disease. Born in Point May, Newfoundland, to Matilda (Lake) and Joseph Hennebury.

Dad moved to Halifax with his family in 1949. Affectionately known as Huck, Huck Finn, Uncle Corn, and Gordie. Dad’s hands often weathered and worn, but strong and caring, gave him the ability to accomplish anything. Carpenter, ambulance driver, baker, fisherman, painter, sandblaster, business owner, and coatings inspector were some of his varied careers. Physically fit most of his life, dad played hockey for many decades. Giving and taking checks and punches, clocking many minutes in the penalty box. A life-long Boston Bruins fan.

Golf became his passion as hockey and softball became too demanding for his well-worn body. Dad enjoyed a round of golf anywhere, anytime. Living in the Bahamas, Virginia, and California gave dad the opportunity to play golf year-round on many beautiful courses. Spending summers in Chester, dad enjoyed the game with his brothers and friends on the beautiful courses in Nova Scotia. While living in California, dad attended and volunteered at PGA events and welcomed players into his home. Dad made his first hole-in-one in Freeport, Bahamas and his second in California.

Dad enjoyed spending time outdoors throughout his life. Building a camp in the 70’s with Pat and Skipper in East Dalhousie provided a warm place for many to stay while hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. Harvesting firewood with his tractor in Northwest Cove also gave dad great pride and enjoyment. Dad always wanted a son but that didn’t stop him from teaching “his girls” everything he would have taught a son. Carpentry, welding, painting, plumbing, snowmobiling, driving, independence, generosity, and most of all the value of working hard. Dad valued hard work above everything and took pride in all that he did. If he had the opportunity to share his good fortune with family, he would open his heart and home without hesitation. If you were a neighbor, friend, or family member in need, he was there.

Family left with fond memories are wife, Wendy (Homeland, CA); daughters, Monique (Jeffrey) Ashe; Kelly (Michael) Mattinson; grandson, Luke; granddaughter, Charlee. Brothers, Eric (Maggie); Patrick (Judy), Junior (Louise), (Dino) David (Allison). Sisters, Margaret Pettipas; Betty (Keith) Hearn; Madonna (Daniel) Kunzli. Sister-in-law, Grace. Nieces and nephews: Patti, Debbie, Jamie, Peter, Tim, Barry, Sharon, Glen, B.J., Mark, Lynne, Paul, Kevin, Bob, Stephen, Pam, Craig, Shawn, Chris, Troy, Ryan, Allison, Sara, Collier and many great nieces and nephews. Pre-deceased by brother Albert and his wife Betty; brother, Michael; sister and brother-in-law, Sarah, and Kenneth Murphy; brother-in-law, Fred Pettipas; niece, Michelle; nephews, Donnie, and Ricky. Former in-laws, Lois, and Ira Gates. Dad received exceptional care while living on the 3rd floor at Arborstone Enhanced care. His care team were welcoming, kind, and compassionate throughout the progression of his disease. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Donald K. Walker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held once COVID restrictions lessen. Donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Society Nova Scotia, 290 Main Ave., Ste. 801, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3M 3V3 or to a Minor Hockey Association of your choice.