Ben Jardine

Ben Jardine, 74, of Sydney Mines—known for his fierce determination, unshakeable strong will, and an unmeasurable level of Cape Breton hospitality lost an 8-year argument with cancer on Tuesday, May 26. He passed away peacefully under the outstanding care of the Cape Breton Hospice.

Ben’s story began on October 4th, 1951, born in Florence to Clarence and Marguerite Jardine. He will be greeted on the other side by his brothers, Tommy and Dougie (Sandra), and leaves behind his siblings Marie Rollins, Sandy Jardine (Joanne), and Peggy Hurley (Sheldon) to keep the family stories alive.

Ben was blessed to be welcomed into the Penney family 54 years ago after marrying the love of his life Debbie, and acquired 12 additional brothers and sisters who were also a big part of his life.

Ben was the devoted husband to Debbie. Together, they raised Ben Jr. (Tracey), Bill (Jolanda), and Linda (Mark), teaching them the importance of hard work and dedication to family.

A Cape Bretoner to his absolute core, Ben was fiercely proud of his roots and the life he built here. He loved his coffee, a long drive around the Island with Debbie, and the weekly ritual of watching his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs on a Saturday night.

But if you really wanted to see Ben smile, you looked at his grandest legacy. He was the world’s proudest Poppy to Paige, Payton, Reese, Carter, Sofie, Will, Zoe, Chase, Jack, Aiden, Rory, Finn, Theo, and Landon. He perfected the art of being a Poppy, and his spirit lives on in every one of them.

To swap stories, share a laugh, and maybe debate the Leafs' next season, visitation will take place on Saturday, May 30th from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at J.M. Jobes Funeral Home in Sydney Mines. A service will conclude after the visitation at J M Jobes Funeral Home.

Ben never turned away a visitor he didn't like, a reception will be held to celebrate his life at the Holy Family Parish Hall in Sydney Mines after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Cape Breton Hospice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ben Jardine, please visit our floral store.