Cecil Godwin Obituary

We are saddened to announce the passing of Cecil Harvey Godwin, on October 4th at the Fogo Island Health Center. Born February 24th, 1956 to Samuel and Mary Godwin. Eldest brother to Olive, Wade, Jim, Terry, Paul, Gale and Rodney. Predeceased by his father Samuel Godwin, parents in law A. K. & Myrtice Collins, nephews Patrick and John. Sister in laws Elizabeth Mercer and Lillian Holmes and brother in law George Collins. Cecil's brother in law Melvin Holmes who shared many funny events with him over the years joined him on his final journey just 2 hours later that day. Left to cherish his memories are his mother Mary, wife of 45 years, Annie (Collins) Godwin, and their 3 sons Taylor (Shannon), Corey (Joanne) and Troy. Also holding his memories close to their hearts are grandchildren Mitchell, Kerry, Abi, Vayda, Paiton, Greyson and Gracie. He was a friend to many and had acquaintances far and wide. He also leaves to mourn Brother-in law Laurie Collins( Daphne) and Sister-in-laws Nina McGrath (Gregory), Jean Godwin and Karin Godwin, many cousins, nieces and nephews. During Cecil's life he spent many years passionately volunteering locally and with groups across the province and country. He was a member of the JBS Fire Department and served as Fire Chief for several of those years. He was a proud member of the Fogo Island Co-op and held terms as President of the Board of Directors. He had many fond memories of trips abroad with the Co-op, especially his time in China. He was heavily involved with the Fogo Island Development Association, The Literacy Association locally, provincially and nationally. He was a very strong advocate for adult literacy. He also enjoyed his time with Urban Rural Mission Canada. He told stories of how he spent hours playing pool with former Prime Minister Jean Chretien at the Fogo Island Motel which resulted in him being asked to join Team Canada on a trade mission to China. Cecil's life took him on many career paths over the years. He spent time working in Toronto and Labrador City in his early years. He worked with several family business ventures and was always a tireless worker who spent decades on the different processing plants around Fogo Island. In 2003 He left to travel to New Brunswick and finally onward to Alberta in 2008 to find new adventures. He loved his time in Alberta and was a member of Operating Engineers 955. He made many new friends in New Brunswick and Alberta and several that would become family. Special mention to Scott Park and Tina Fudge who became his adopted family in Fort McMurray. He was also strongly supported by his Cousin Marshall Payne who helped us all navigate through many of dad's challenges while ill. After several years in Alberta, Cecil developed multiple health issues and decided to make the move back to Fogo Island. While this was a difficult decision for him we were thankful for having him closer to home to enjoy many more family gatherings and trips to Gander Bay and St John's. Especially his trips to Dairy Queen for a large strawberry and pineapple Blizzard. Those who knew Cecil knew he showed love with his trademark dirty looks and colourful language and we'd have it no other way. Cecil was surrounded by his family and held closely as he passed quietly. We were fortunate that the staff at the Fogo Island Health Care Center also held us and provided so much support through the experience. A special thank you to Dr. Gibbon's who went above and beyond to care for dad and to the Congestive Heart Failure Clinic at the Health Sciences Center. The family would also like to thank the staff of Stacey's Funeral Home in Gander for their kindness and support. We also very much appreciate the visits from family and friends as well as donations of food and money. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Cecil's name to the Fogo Island Health Centre in care of the Central Northeast Health Foundation. If Cecil ever touched your life with a glare or a swear, hold up your glass for the old fella with a nip of the Captain. As per Cecil's wishes cremation has taken place with a Family gathering being planned for a later date. Arrangements entrusted through Stacey's Funeral Home, Gander - Carmanville.