Obituary of Melvin Enos Biggin

Melvin Enos Biggin

October 9, 1933 - March 3, 2019

Our lives have changed forever.  Our beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away at the age of 85 years, at the Rufus Guinchard Health Center in Port Saunders, surrounded by his loving family. 

Leaving to mourn with precious memories, his wife of 55 years Yvette Biggin (Cadet); children: Ada Falle (Ralph), David  (Marlene), Paul  (Cynthia), Helena ( Bill ); grandchildren: Lindsey (Robert), Leslie, Amber, Jessica and Mark; great-grandchildren: Austin, Rosaleigh, Nora and Emily; brother Ronald; sister in law Gertrude (Lyman) Spence and a large circle of nieces, nephews other relatives, extended family and friends.

Predeceased by his loving daughter Mary, parents Tom and Hannah Biggin, sister Verna Timmons; sisters- in-law: Regina Biggin, Rita Rumbolt, Vange Darby, Ellen Hlebik; brothers-in-laws: Clem Cadet, Austin Rumbolt, Roland Darby, Frank Hlebik.

Melvin was born in Daniel’s Harbour and ventured out into the world at the age of 16. He began his career as a telegraph operator for CN with service in Flowers Cove, Brig Bay and finally Port Saunders.  Many years later, he retired with the Roman Catholic School board in 1993.

Our father was a pillar of the community where he served as mayor for two separate terms, did endless hours of volunteer service taking care of the Interfaith Cemetery and generously sharing his time and talents with people in need.

Dad was a lover of life and all that it encompassed.  He remained active well into his later years and had a past time for every season whether it was hunting, fishing, trapping, cutting wood or hanging out in the fishing sheds.  We grew up accustomed to the sound of knuckles clicking on the dining room table, during countless games of competitive cards.  When family arrived from away, game nite was established, as well as the Sunday evening ritual.  Dad loved playing Wes, 150’s and cribbage.  He stole the points that others missed when counting their hands in crib. Dad was known for his dry humour and often started laughing at his jokes before he had them finished. 

He will be resting at the Fillatres Funeral home in Port au Choix with visitation at 2-4 and family service 7-9 on Wednesday.  Funeral mass will take place at 11 am on Thursday, March 7th, at St. Joseph's Church  in Port Saunders.

Much appreciation and many thanks to the dedicated staff at the Rufus Guinchard Memorial Hospital for the loving care and support during this difficult time.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rufus Guinchard Health Center LTC ward would be greatly appreciated.

                                                                                                                   We all begin a new day, holding on to our precious memories