Obituary of Bernard James Nanni

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ben on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in his 78^th year at his waterfront home in Plummer Additional, with his wife of 50 years, Lynda (nee Hall) by his side.

Forever loved by his three children: Roberta (Adam) Samec, Bryan Nanni, and Alexander (Krista) Nanni, as well as his grandchildren: Isabella Samec, Coyln Nanni, Roxanna Samec, Jaydan Nanni, Wayne Nanni, and Logan Nanni.

Predeceased by his parents, Berardino (Ed) and Margarita (Marg) Nanni (nee Dipietro), and his brothers Silvio and Gerald Nanne. Will be remembered by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Dorina Nanne, Marilyn Nanne, Ranah (David) Fortune, and Bill (Averil) Hall. He will be missed by his nieces and nephews: Silvia Parlowe, Debbie Nanne, Paula Carello, Lisa Burke, Gerald Nanne Jr, Debra Kilgore, Emily Walso, and Liam Hall, as well as his many great nieces and great nephews. He will also be remembered by his childhood best friend for many decades, Jim Little.

Ben grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and was amongst the first students at the brand new Bawating Collegiate Institute, where he played all the sports he could, and had a special love for basketball.  He then continued his studies at Lake Superior State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1970. He followed this with a teaching certificate at Ottawa Teacher’s College, where he eventually learned that he should never be a teacher.

His work life took him to City Hall in Sault Ste. Marie, where he worked in Urban Renewal, the by-law office and later in building management. He was also a Master Electrician and ran his own company part-time for forty years, Blue Jay Electric. Both roles connected him with many different people throughout both Sault Ste. Marie and the Plummer Additional and Bruce Mines area.

His favourite place to be was always on or near the water. Be it in a boat, swimming or hunting, he was always happiest living at a place with “the best view in the world”, and with his family around him.

A Come & Go Celebration of Life will be held in the Lower Lounge at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. For those who wish, memorial donations in his name may be made to a place close to both Ben and Lynda’s hearts, the Bruce Mines and Plummer Additional Union Public Library (payable by cheque only).