1921 – 2016
Following a celebration of her 95 years of life Eileen Alma Riordon passed peacefully away, surrounded by family, on February 11th, 2016 at the ChaleurRegionalHospital in Bathurst, NB.
Born in Black Rock, NB to James and Julia (Saltar) Whelton she was the fifth born child of 13 siblings. She was predeceased by her husband of 41 years Raymond W. Riordon in June 1983, four sons – Ray Jr in 1982, Terry in 1999, David in 2011 and Frank in 2015, one grandson – Brandon Coombs in 2015. She was also predeceased by 1 brother and 10 sisters.
Eileen is survived by four children – Dan (Ellen) of Wasaga Beach, ON, Elaine (Preston) Knowles of Clifton, NB, Alma (Marc) Cormier of Beresford, NB and Coleen Riordon of Bathurst, NB. Four daughters –in-law – Sandra (Ray Jr.) Riordon of Bathurst, Dianna (Frank) Riordon of Pokeshaw, Viola (David) Riordon of Pokeshaw, and Sue (Terry) Riordon of Yarmouth, NS. Twenty three grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren and many, many nieces and nephews. She also leaves two sisters – Carmel Sargeant of Hamilton, ON and Gladys (Gene) Belanger of Iroquois Falls, ON.
Eileen was a devout Christian, her children were her pride and joy, her generosity and hard work was well known, and her baking was legendary as many will remember the Pokeshaw Island Pastry Shop. She was dedicated to writing letters of concern to ALL politicians as near or far as they might be; in any level of government, an avid fundraiser for many local charities and community developments. She was a life long learner, an adventurous traveler and the ‘Welcome Mat’ was always out at the Riordon homestead. A life well lived, many memories made, she will be greatly missed and forever remembered by her family and friends.
As per her wishes, there will be no visitation at the funeral home. A service in celebration of her life will be held on Monday, February 15th, 2016 at 2pm from Holy Family Catholic Church Bathurst, NB. A reception will follow the service. Donations in memory of Eileen can be made to Holy Family Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton’s Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.