David William (Bill) Gwynn

With profound sadness at the unexpected passing of Dad, we share with many others the love and respect held for an exceptional man.

Bill was born on June 27, 1934, in the MacLeod homestead in Cape North to Margaret Rachel (née MacLeod) Gwynn and Edward (Ed) William Gwynn. His friendly, loving, and giving personality left an undeniable mark on all who knew him. He loved to hear and tell stories in the Cape Breton tradition. His memory for events and people was amazing, as well as his ability to analyze and resolve any issue.

At about six years of age, he lay on the grass looking up at a plane and dreamed of wanting to fly. At the age of 17, he moved to Toronto and got his pilot’s licence—then literally took off. He began as a bush pilot and eventually learned to fly 35 different types of planes all around the world.

Hockey was Dad’s other passion, both playing and watching the game. He also enjoyed his motorcycle adventures with Everette. Dad thrived on people, his faith, his family, and adventure.

He leaves behind his sons, Everette (Tommy Jean Courtney) Gwynn and William Kelly Gwynn (Shannon); his daughters, Kathryn Ann Gwynn-Brett and Nancy Hauser; and his grandchildren, Megan and Keith Gwynn, Ryan and Joshua Hauser, Christine, Rachel and James Brett, and Dade and Quade Gwynn, who treasured every moment spent with their Nana Faye and Abba.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Everett and Angus Buchanan and Earl MacLeod Gwynn; as well as his loving wife of 62 years, Wanda Faith (Nana Faye) (née Burden) Gwynn.

“Even though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
— Psalm 23:4

We would especially like to thank all the staff at Buchanan Memorial Hospital for treating us like family and providing such amazing care during Dad’s time in the hospital. We are so fortunate to live in such a wonderful and caring community.

A celebration of life will take place when Kelly and his family move back home.

“It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember.”

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