Robert "Hap" Sullivan

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Wayne “Hap” Sullivan, age 76, on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Born in North Sydney, Hap was the son of the late John and Kathleen “Kay” (Hare) Sullivan.

Until his retirement, Hap was employed for 36 years with CN Rail, later Marine Atlantic. He then started a business with his wife, Christena. Christena and Hap’s First Aid was accredited by the Red Cross and was a popular choice for training with NSCC, fire departments, home care organizations, numerous local companies and private citizens. Their training was filled with real-life stories and humor, making many participants comment they’d never had so much fun learning life saving skills. Hap had a passion for many genres of music and, in fact, crafted playlists used by the North Sydney Rink for the adult skates. He was also a long-time swim instructor at the Northside pool.

Unofficially known as the King and Queen of the C.B. Highlands, Hap’s favorite place was in his boat floating, fishing and listening to music with Chrissie. Hap would never say no to a cup of tea or a game of cards. His family and friends will never forget his infectious laugh, his mischievous spirit and his love of life.

Hap is survived by his wife Vivian Christena “Chrissie” (Wall) (MacLean) Sullivan, by his son John Brian Cameron (Janelle) Sullivan, daughter Donna (Patrick) Birmingham, step-children; Julie Angela (Greg) Serroul, John Paul (Reverend Angela) MacLean, Major Steven Fraser (Jesse) MacLean, and Donald Frances (Amy) MacLean. Also surviving are his grandchildren; Kiersten Sullivan, Natalie Sullivan, Kenzie Birmingham, Regan Birmingham, Jessica (Matt) Wolstenholme, Kelly Sullivan, Michael Sullivan, Seth Sullivan, Alicia (Nick) Hendriksen, Linden (Joanna) Serroul, Erica MacLean, Matthew MacLean, David MacLean, Poppy Keeping-MacLean, and Will MacLean. Hap is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great nephews, a great niece, and great-grandchildren.

Besides his parents Hap was predeceased by his son Robert Wayne Sullivan, Jr. and his brother Edward (Neila) Sullivan.

The family would like to thank the ICU team at the C.B. Regional Hospital for their compassion and professionalism and all the medical staff on 4C for the endless kindness and loving care that was extended to both Hap and Chrissie.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.  A visitation for Hap will be held from 1-3 pm, Saturday, December 21, 2024, with a funeral service to follow in the Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either the Diabetes Association or the Canadian Red Cross. Online condolences may be sent to the family by leaving a message on the tribute wall of the obituary at www.wjdooley.com. 

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