It is with heavy hearts that the family of Cecile Cole announces her passing on December 6, 2024, at LaVerendrye Hospital in Fort Frances, Ontario, at the age of 96.
Left to cherish her memory are her four children Sam (Kate), Patricia Colip (Terry), Bill (Londa), and John (Julie); grandchildren Chris, Samantha, Meghan, Paige, Jamie, Kelli, Angela, and Brandon; and seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers Bill (Nancy) Pope and their daughters, Susie and Shanna; and Jack (Mary) Pope. Additionally, she leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will deeply miss her.
Cecile was predeceased by her beloved husband James; her son Michael; her brothers Jimmy Pope, Ross Pope; and sister-in-law Sheila Pope. She was also predeceased by her parents Aileen (Cornell) Pope and Alex Pope; and her stepmother Doris Pope.
Cecile was born on January 31, 1928, in Devlin, Ontario, and grew up on the family farm in LaVallee. She often shared fond memories of her childhood, skating on the creek, playing with cousins, riding horses, and embracing the life of a farm girl in the 1930s.
At the age of 18, Cecile began her career as a teacher, a profession she pursued with a passion throughout Manitoba, Quebec and Ontario. During this time, she met Jim, her life companion, best friend, and husband. Together, they raised five children, eventually settling in Nestor Falls, Ontario. Cecile continued her teaching career for over forty years, working alongside her dear friend Jerry O’Leary, and became a well-respected educator in the Rainy River District.
As a teacher, Cecile was not only dedicated to her students’ academic success but also to their artistic development. She taught music to her students and took them to many music festivals, where they competed against other schools in the district, sharing their talent and passion for music. Her students fondly remember her for inspiring them to pursue their love of music and for fostering a strong sense of community through these events.
Following her long and fulfilling teaching career, Jim and Cecile enjoyed their retirement years, spending winters in Florida. Cecile lost her soulmate in 2011 and spent two additional years in Nestor Falls before relocating to Emo, where she reconnected with old friends and made many new ones.
Cecile was the perfect example of how to lead a life of selflessness. When it came to her family, she was always a beacon of unwavering support and generosity. Beyond her family, Cecile used her gifts and talents to help those in need, including her support of many community events, gatherings, and fundraisers. She was an avid quilter and knitter, crafting mitts, socks and teddy bears to sell, giving proceeds to a variety of charities she supported. Cecile was a devoted member of the Nestor Falls United Church and the United Church Women (UCW).
Cecile was also talented at making pies, and her baking was always a highlight at family gatherings. In addition to her love of crafting and cooking, she was a big fan of curling, always looking forward to The Brier and Scotties Tournament of Hearts championships. Embodying her true North spirit, she also enjoyed cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays during the baseball season each year.
Speaking further to Cecile’s artistic nature, she was a talented pianist throughout her years, inspiring her grandchildren to pursue music and learn various instruments as well. In her later years, she could always be relied on to play piano at churches and other various community events.
Cecile’s memory will live on in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and all those who were touched by her kindness and grace.
A close family interment will be held at the Devlin Cemetery in the summer of 2025, followed by a private celebration of life at that time. If desired, in memoriam, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Cecile’s love and wisdom will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. As we celebrate her life, let us remember this Irish blessing she cherished.
May the road rise up to meet you,
May the sun shine warmly on your face,
May the rain fall gently in your fields,
May the wind always be at your back,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
