Obituary of Carl Eugene Simpson

Carl Eugene Simpson 71, with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Carl E. Simpson in the evening of May 6, 2009. He died at home, after his battle with cancer, in the care of his loving partner and sons. He was the youngest of two children (sister, Brenda), born in Simpsons Corner to Leo and Glennis (Joudrey) Simpson, formerly of Simpsons Corner. Carl worked for Maritime Tel and Tel for 43 years, starting his career at the age of 18 in 1955. He worked in Yarmouth, Annapolis and many points in between before building his home in Hebbville. In 1977 after serving the IBEW in numerous capacities he became the business manager and immediately began to build a strong relationship between the company and its workers. In 1984, he led the employees of the phone company to organize their own union and the ACTWU was born. He led this union until his retirement in 1998. Along the way he fought for jobs and better working conditions for all who were part of the labour force. He was a man of strong labour principles and was active in many organizations. He served as both a Scout Master and a Cub Master in both Annapolis and Bridgewater. He was one of the founding members of the Hebbville Fire Department. He was a member of the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church. He once ran for the NDP, and felt that the rights of many should be respected in life and in politics. He loved cutting wood and often worked the family land in Simpsons Corner. He was an associate member of the Bridgewater Legion and worked with Royal LePage selling real estate after he retired from the union and phone company. Carl enjoyed travelling, especially with his spouse Darlene Corkum. He loved country music and played both guitar and harmonica. In later years he fell in love with golf and loved to walk the course chasing the elusive perfect game. He rode a motorbike his whole life and drove it on beautiful days with a smile on his face. He was a loving spouse, a great dad and a community leader. Left to mourn his loss and treasure his memory are his life partner, Darlene; children Rockey and Timmie; three grandchildren, Carley, Shanna and Kaida; neice, Shelby, nephew, Reg; numerous cousins, including Carroll and Cheryl. Many thanks, to the wonderful people who were part of Carl’s life. Thank you for the warm prayers and the many years of friendship. We will always treasure his memory and the lives that he has touched. Visitation for family and friends will be 7-9 p.m. Friday in Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater. Funeral service 11 a.m., Saturday in Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Bridgewater. Rev. Robert Coote officiating, assisted by Rev. Eric Campbell. Private family interment will take place in Brookside Cemetery, Bridgewater. Family flowers only, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society, Holy Trinity Anglican Church or Bridgewater Baptist Church. On-line condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.