HAMPER, Leonella Marie (Melski) of Sydney River passed away peacefully the evening of 1st January, 2023, aged 79 years. She is survived by sons Robert, James and Michael and grandchildren Frederick, Alexander, Grace, Nicholas and Leah. She is also survived by her sister Anne (Stephen) and brothers Anthony (Junior), Michael, Terry (Tiny) and Robert Melski and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her loving husband James on October, 2022. Together they had 56 years of marriage before his passing. She is also predeceased by her parents and brothers Ronald (Butch), Donald and Joseph Melski.
Leona, daughter of Anthony and Janice (Kiec) Melski formerly resided in Whitney Pier on Swan Street as part of a large family of Polish descent. She was intensely proud of her heritage and community there in the Pier.
She finished high school at Holy Angels and went on to train as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Rita’s where she spent many years working on 4th and 5th floor and Pediatrics. She especially loved working with the children there, bring them comfort during their stay.
She was a dedicated wife and mother and supported her husband Jim when he moved the family all the way to West Africa for a new life there. Even overseas she found opportunity to help children by becoming a teacher’s aid for a time. After visits back to Sydney, she would return to Africa with suitcases of clothing and school supplies for those in need.
On retiring back to Sydney, she resumed her hospital work part time and later became a continuing care worker, work she cherished, as well as a child care attendant. She was in touch with some of her former clients until her last days. She doted on her grandchildren, enjoyed her garden and spoiled her West Highland terrier.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a cancer charity of your choice. We would also like to extend thanks and gratitude to the staff of the Cape Breton Cancer Centre, the nurses of the V.O.N., and the outstanding nurses and personnel of the An Cala Palliative Care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital – you brought peace.
A Celebration of Life will be held at TW Curry Parkview Chapel on Sat, Jan 7th, at 11am, with Fr. Richard Philiposki SChr. officiating. A reception will follow. To leave memories and condolences please visit www.twcurry.com.
