John Lloyd Hanes

It is with great sadness that we the family announce the passing of Johnny Hanes, a dear husband, son, father, grandfather, and brother, surrounded by his family and friends, at his home July 15, 2020.

Born in New Waterford May 13, 1954, he was the son of Nellie (Gaskell) Hanes, and the grandson of Eva and Richard Gaskell.

Johnny worked as a carpenter after graduation from the vocational school in 1974. He proudly worked with McPherson Brothers and was a dedicated miner for Devco for twenty-three years, until the mine closed in 2001. After the closing of the mines, he worked for the Cape Breton Regional School Board, until he went out west to work as a labourer with local 92. Johnny retired three years ago when he started to enjoy life to the fullest. He loved the energy of the outdoors. Many wonderful trips ice fishing with his buddies brought a twinkle to his eyes, a smile, and hilarious stories. Johnny loved spending time at lake Ainslie at the bungalow with Gussie and Peter where they shared fishing, hunting and friendship. His new friends from Newfoundland looked forward to his visits where they nicknamed him “the great Johnny Hanes”.

Johnny loved all children (and they loved him) especially his five grandchildren: Jadeyn, Avery, Landon, Tanner, Kevin, and all his nieces and nephews. He had such great memories from spending precious time with all the children. His grandchildren were the love of his life. Johnny was often seen walking down Roaches Road pulling his grandson (Kevin) in his little red wagon. Many trips out west were highlighted with visits with his son Richard, daughter in law Rachel and four wonderful grandchildren. They camped, swam, fished and puddle jumped, with Johnny in the lead, heading to the Dairy Queen where they all enjoyed ice cream cones.

Johnny will be remembered as a kind and gentle man spending countless hours in the garage chatting with the boys, all were his best friends. He made everyone feel that they were important and special to him. The list is too long to mention. He will always be remembered as a truly generous and kind soul.

Johnny is survived by his wife Chris (Rizzato); son Richard (Rachel); daughter Christa (Terrance); brothers Ricky (Rita), Roy (Mindy), sister Judy (Brent); brother in law Freddie (Peggy); sister in laws, Norina (Pat), Elaine (Malkie), Audrey (John); father in law John Rizzato; and cousins Brian Burke, Sharon Dornbush, Lloyd Gaskell and Janice Gaskell.

He was predeceased by his mom (Nellie); grandparents (Eva and Richard Gaskell); aunt and uncles John and Rita Burke, and Eleanor and Ivor Gaskell, mother in law (Joyce Rizzato).

Thank you to the doctors, Victoria Order of Nurses, and palliative care doctors and nurses. A special thank you to Sandra Rizzato for being there for Johnny and the family.

Donations in memory of Johnny may be made to the Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

Cremation has taken place. An announcement of the celebration of Johnny’s life will occur at a later date.

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