Downey Norman Kirk
1938-2020
Kirk, Downey Norman, age 82, of Antigonish passed away
peacefully on October 3, 2020, in the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home,
Antigonish.
Born in Clydesdale, he was a son of the late John and Leah
(Pushie) Kirk.
Downey was a farmer by trade, having at one time owned his
own farm. He was also a lover of music, and he had even
written his own songs.
He is survived by his siblings, John William
“Billie”, British Columbia; Ellen, Alabama; Freda, Virginia;
Charlie, Burlington, ON; Maud, Yarmouth; Ann, Burlington, ON; and
Ralph (Fran), New York.
Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his brother,
Huntley; sister, Jean; and sibling in stillbirth.
A funeral service will be held Thursday at 2:00pm at St.
James United Church, Antigonish, with Reverend Peter Smith
presiding. Burial in St. James & St. Paul
Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral will be made available
on the funeral home’s website.
In Memoriam, donations to the Schizophrenia Society of Nova
Scotia appreciated. Funeral arrangements are under the
direction of C.L. Curry Funeral Home, Antigonish. Online
condolences: www.clcurry.com
A Tribute from
Downey’s sister,
Ann
It is with great love and respect that I pay tribute to my
brother, Downey.
As I began to search for the correct words to honour him, I
am reminded that many people only know him by his
illness.
Downey’s illness may have kept him from fully
pursuing his talents, but his life did not lack meaning. He
was far more than a man who struggled with schizophrenia. He
was a kind and gentle man who cared about his family, his neighbours,
and his community. He was a hard worker on the family farm
in Clydesdale, and he worked for others in the
community.
Growing up on the family farm was not always easy, but we had
many great times together. My favourite memories are when
Downey would sing his own songs on the back of the family pick-up
truck on the way to the Casno Causeway or going to the beach on a
Sunday afternoon.
Downey left several times to work in Ontario, but Antigonish
was where he always wanted to be.
Downey was most proud when he owned his own farm in North
Grant. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of having friends and
family over for a bonfire, playing his guitar, and singing Hank
Williams songs.
Downey had a gift for music and would write his
own. His other passions included cooking and playing cards,
especially crib. For a while, he was enrolled in a cooking
class in Cape Breton.
We all have struggles in our life, but Downey sure had his
fair share! I give Downey the utmost admiration for
persevering through life’s challenges and not becoming
bitter at the life he was given.
There have been many people who have shown their love and
kindness to my brother, and for that I am grateful.
It is very hard to say goodbye, so I will say:
“Wherever there is a beautiful soul, there is a trail of
beautiful memories. And that is what I have of my
brother.”
REST IN PEACE Downey…until we see each other
again.
Sister, Ann.
A tribute from
Downey’s brother,
Ralph
Downey was my brother. He was a kind person. In life, he
loved and was loved. He grew up in Clydesdale and never wanted to be
far from Antigonish.
Downey taught me how to use a chain saw, peel pulpwood, and
play cribbage. In doing so he taught me a lot about life, hard work,
and thoughtfulness.
Downey approached life with a curiosity. He was interested in
current affairs and enjoyed discussing any subject.
In recent years Downey was well cared for by the staff at the
RK MacDonald Nursing home who he considered his family.
Downey is at peace now and his memory will live on in our
hearts.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Downey Norman Kirk 19382020..
Death notice for the town of: Antigonish, Province: Nova Scotia