Hanifen, Robert Blaise. It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we, the siblings of Robert Blaise Hanifen, 50, announce his sudden passing at home on November 21st, 2014. Born in Antigonish on November 2, 1964, he was the youngest son of the late Anselm and Marie (McDonald) Hanifen. He was a lifelong resident of Erinville, Guysborough County and was so proud of his Irish roots. Robert was a machine operator/truck driver who learned his trade at a very young age alongside the Morrison boys (being old enough to drive was not an issue with them….as long as you had extra cushions and could see through the steering wheel, you were rollin’). He was happiest behind the wheel and was fortunate to be employed by Nova Construction where he got to live his passion.
Robert was a big man with an even bigger heart and a kind and gentle soul. He was known as "Big Baby Robert" by his nieces and nephews and was dearly loved by them all. He was blessed with many loyal friends and a loving, caring community. He was an active member of St. Thomas Parish and sat on the Finance Committee. He was a member of local 721 and 721-B with The International Union of Operating Engineers. He was a loyal Liberal Party member. Robert loved country music, loved to play cards, visit friends and family, was a die-hard Montreal Canadians fan, and could always be counted on for a text or phone call on your birthday or anniversary.
Robert is survived by his siblings, Eddie (Willena), Joe (Annette), Mary (Connie) Beaton, Anne (Wayne) MacDougall, Vivian (Wayne) Giffin, Jack (Kim), Donna (John) Robertson, Jim (Rosanne), Bernard (Jan), Jacqueline (John) Vosman. He is also survived by Ralph (Eileen) Rogers, Aunt Theresa McKinnon, Uncle James and Aunt Patricia Hanifen, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special Godchildren, Candace, Emily, James and Laine.
He was predeceased by his loving parents, brother Terry, nephews Derek Beaton and Rodney Hanifen.
Visitation at The C.L. Curry Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 26th from 7-9pm, and Thursday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Funeral service on Friday, November 28th, 11am at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Salmon River with Rev. Danny MacLennan officiating. Donations may be made to St. Thomas Cemetery Fund, Shamrock Community Development Society, or by making a donation to your local food bank over the Christmas season. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com
We will miss you forever, Robert.
Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.