Bernard Jude Doucette

Bernard Jude Doucette
New Waterford

It is with great sadness that we the family of Bernie Doucette announce his passing on August 19, 2020, at home. Born in New Waterford, NS, on January 26, 1941, he was the son of the late William and Elizabeth (MacLeod) Doucette.

Bernie worked in the local coal mines for almost 20 years before starting work at the Sydney Steel Plant coke ovens. Bernie is survived by his soul mate, best friend and wife of 59 years, Thelma. Together they raised three adoring sons and enjoyed watching their family grow with several grand and great grandchildren. He will forever be known as “Big Da”. Bernie enjoyed spending the summer months and creating lasting memories with his family in the bungalow in Margaree, where he made many great friends. His friends easily became family. He was an outdoorsman, thoroughly enjoyed fishing, hunting and of course the annual Margaree Washer Toss tournament. Bernie opened his heart to all who loved him, he was always there to lend a helping hand. To be in Big Da’s presence was to be home. Our hearts are broken, he will forever be missed.

Bernie is survived by his wife Thelma (Hulme); sons Bernie (Joanne), Donnie (Sherri), Glenn (Kelly); grandchildren Paul (Amanda), Troy, Ian (Stacey), DJ (Wendy), Renee, Parker; great-grandchildren Declan, Arleigh, Daxx, Callie; special little friend, Hayden, close friends Stevie and Debbie Daix, Adrian (Margarite) Merriam, Millan Conrod as well as many other friends and relatives, too many to name.

Bernie was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank the nurses and Doctors of the Palliative Care services and the Cape Breton Cancer Centre, especially Tracy Brown NP for the excellent care and compassion shown to Bernie during his illness. A very special Thank you to our granddaughter in law Amanda for going above and beyond for the special care given to Big Da and family. He loved you dearly.

Cremation has taken place and a chapel service will be held at a later date. Donations in Bernie’s memory can be made to Cape Breton Palliative Care.

Give me a rod of the split bamboo,
a rainy day and a fly or two,
a mountain stream where the eddies play,
and mists hang low o’er the winding way.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave, New Waterford, 902-862-7500.