Catherine Mary MacAskill

Catherine Mary, daughter of Rev Malcolm and Bessie Ann MacDonald, was born August 6, 1912, on the family pioneer farm in Alberta. She was 12 years old when the family moved to Edmonton where her father began his study of the Ministry. Over the following years the family moved a number of times then came to the St. James Presbyterian Church in Big Bras d’Or, Cape Breton. After high school in Big Bras d’Or, Catherine went to Nursing School at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal. She married John in 1938 and lived in Millville until 1995, when she moved into the assisted living area of the Northside Community Guest Home.

Catherine maintained friendships made over the years and as events dictated she maintained friendships with the children of her friends. Those faithful contacts sustained her through the changes and losses she experienced. Her strength to endure through great loss, her unwavering personal faith in God, her life style of giving have made her a cherished example in her church and community.

Catherine was a member of St. James Presbyterian Church, Big Bras d’Or, where she was an avid member of many church groups and activities. She was also member of many community groups and events.

Catherine is survived and will be missed by daughter Sharon Chiasson, 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Catherine was predeceased by her husband John Norman MacAskill in 1992, Parents Rev. Malcolm Norman & Bessie Ann MacDonald, daughters; Ruth Mary, Ida Joan, son; Peter John, Sisters; Isabel, Anna, Alice and baby sister Ruth, brothers; Richard, Norman, Kenneth.

Services for the late Catherine MacAskill will take place at 11am on Wed Aug 31 at St. James Presbyterian Church, Big Bras d’Or with Rev. Peter MacDonald officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. If desired, donations in her memory can be made to a charity of one’s choice. Expressions of Sympathy can be forwarded to the family by visiting www.fillmoreandwhitman.com