Byron Paul Penny

Byron Penny

North Sydney

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden death of our beloved husband, father, brother and good friend, Byron Paul Penny, 73, on Wednesday July 7th. Byron was the fourth child of Ambrose and Mary (Barnes) Penny. Byron lived the first years of his life in North Sydney, and briefly lived in Bedford where he worked at the bank. In 1972 he took a chance picking up a hitchhiker, not knowing that choice would change his life for the better. Fast forward three years to 1975, where he and his new bride, Estelle, moved to Alberta where they spent the next 27 years. Together they built their lives, which included the birth of two beautiful daughters, and the making of numerous friends with whom they continue to have lasting friendships. Once retired, the decision was made to return to their roots, coming back to Cape Breton. He enjoyed island life, especially being able to see his mom and siblings more frequently, as well as old friends, particularly his best buddy Myers Boutilier.  Coffee every morning and afternoon at brother Gordon's became their daily routine, where he and the boys solved all the world's problems...or so they liked to think.
Byron loved life and lived it to the fullest.  He was happiest when he was sailing on the Bras d'Or Lakes (where no one could tell him he was wrong) or spending time with his family and friends.  Trips back to Alberta to visit his girls and old friends were always times he treasured.  His sense of humour and quick wit will be missed by everyone.  It didn't matter what was thrown at him... he always had a quick come back which would inevitably end in laughter.  Byron tended to be the life of the party and a family gathering with his siblings was always filled with so much laughter as he and his sisters reminisced about the "good old days" where his sisters proved to be his equal when making others laugh.  It will be hard to imagine family gatherings without his presence.  Byron was an active member of St. Joseph Church, always willing to help decorate for the various holiday celebrations, counting the cash, ushering and being a Eucharistic Minister. 

Two of Byron's greatest achievements came in the form of two tiny bundles of joy, his daughters Adrienne and Jenna-Rae.  He was a devoted father and so proud of his girls and their accomplishments.  Along with Estelle they were his life.

Byron leaves behind his best friend and loving wife Estelle, daughters Adrienne (Mike) Will and Jenna-Rae, Alberta; his siblings Gordon (Louise), Rebecca (Lloyd) Gracie, Diane (late George) MacLean, Mary Lynn (Michael) Prince, North Sydney, and his brother Bruce (Sandra) of Rothesay, NB; brothers-in-law Larry (Debbie) MacKinnon, North Sydney; Ray MacKinnon, Ian (Lori) MacKinnon, Jimmy (Michelle) MacKinnon, Hardisty, AB; Gilbert (Lori) MacKinnon,

Saskatoon; sisters-in-law Irene (John) Cogan, North Sydney; Therese (Henry) MacNeil and Marion (late Bob) Zulyniak, Winnipeg; along with many nieces, nephews and good friends. He was predeceased by his parents Ambrose and Mary (Barnes) Penny.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 20th, 11:00 am at St. Joseph Church, North Sydney with Fr. Patrick O'Neill officiating. Covid-19 restrictions will be in place with the wearing of masks and social distancing. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the North Sydney Food Bank or a charity close to your heart. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.dooley.com.  

 “Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come” – Rabindranath Tagore

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