Richard J. 'Boots' Walsh

81 – Sydney

It is with great sadness that we the family of the late Richard Joseph “Boots” Walsh, 81, announce his passing on February 7, 2014 in AnCala, Palliative Care at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Dad was born and raised in Whitney Pier, and he was so very proud of his community. He was the son of the late Ronald and Elizabeth (Hollahan) Walsh. He was predeceased by his sister Margaret and twin brothers in infancy.

He is survived by his loving and supportive wife of 58 years, the former Alice Neville, his children; Ron (Trish Jamieson), Sheila (Steve MacDonald), John (Marie McCarron), Catherine (Michael Kelloway), and Robert (Kimberly Ryan). He was the proud grandfather of 9 wonderful grandchildren who loved him dearly and who affectionately call him “Bootsie”; Jennifer MacDonald (Matthew Ernst), Ashley MacDonald, Adam, Zachary, Joey, John Michael, Nicholas, Emma, and Josh Walsh. In addition, he is also survived by his sisters-in-law Isabel MacNeil, South Bar, and Mary Neville, Sydney, and 19 nieces and nephews.

Dad graduated from Sydney Academy in 1951 where he was an outstanding athlete in track and field, swimming, boxing, and a provincial rugby champion. Upon graduation, he worked with the Sydney Steel Corporation for two years.

As an avid hockey fan, Dad was an "unwavering” supporter of the Montreal Canadiens. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandsons and granddaughter play hockey throughout the years. He was their greatest fan! He was also very supportive of his other granddaughters’ dance classes and never missed a recital.

Dad’s policing career began on May 4, 1954, and spanned 40 years. He started as a Constable walking the beat where he became a familiar and trusted presence. His policing career transitioned from Traffic to Detective to Inspector of Administration. In 1985, he became the Chief of Police for the City of Sydney, a position he occupied with distinction for 10 years. During this time, he served as President of both the Nova Scotia Association of Chiefs of Police and Atlantic Association of Chiefs of Police.

Throughout Dad’s life, he exhibited integrity, strength, determination, and humility. Above all, he was an optimist! It was these qualities that enabled him to courageously fight cancer for 13 years.

We will be forever grateful for his ongoing love and support. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He would want all of us to know that “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Visitation for the late Chief Walsh will be held from 2-4 & 7-9 pm on Monday, February 10 at T.W.Curry Parkview Chapel, Sydney. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 11 at 11 am at Holy Redeemer Church with Father Paul Murphy officiating. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.

Donations may be made to the Cancer Society or the Palliative Care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital or a charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be left by visiting www.twcurry.com