Obituary of Michael Hollis
Michael Walter Hollis, formerly of Mt. Thom, passed away at age 81 at Glen Haven Manor in New Glasgow on January 16, 2024.
Born in Port Howe on April 28, 1942, he was the son of the late Layton and Kay Hollis.
He is survived by his loving family; wife Nancy; daughter Jillian (Wayne); granddaughter Rhiannon; son Iain (Julia); grandchildren, Emily, Grady, Eben and Jensen; son Philip (Becky); grandchildren Robert, Kaylee, Luke; as well as his sister Elsie, brothers Bill (Barb) and Ralston (Debbie); sister-in-law Karen, brother-in-law David (Karen) and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
Michael began his schooling attending a one room schoolhouse, then Oxford and Pugwash High, Teachers College and St. FX University. For over 30 years he had many roles at West Pictou District High as teacher, department head and vice principal. He worked with Students’ Council, Allied Youth, sports teams, and many other school activities. As well, he initiated an evening adult education and skills program, offering many hands-on classes to members of the community.
Mike was a very active member of the community over the years. He was very involved with St Luke’s United Church in Salt Springs, holding positions of Elder, Steward and Treasurer. He and Nancy formed the Crohn’s and Colitis chapter in Pictou County. He was a 4-H leader and contributed at the club, county, and provincial levels. He helped many young people learn the skill of woodworking and went on to furnish many pieces of furniture in his children’s houses. He also worked with the Scouting movement, the VON, Pictou Food Bank and the Cancer Society.
With Michael being active in so many programs over the years, charitable donations can be made to any of the wonderful causes he was involved in.
Special thanks are extended to the staff of Glen Haven for their care and support over the last many months.
Michael was an excellent dancer, enjoyed taking his kids camping and skiing, cooking his famous cabbage rolls and turkey stuffing, puttering around his garage, and tending to the flower beds and garden. A well-liked and respected member of the community for years, he will be missed by many.
Visitation will be held at Eagles Funeral home in Westville, Friday January 19th from 6 until 9 pm. His funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 20th, at St. Luke’s United Church in Salt Springs with Reverend Jim Webber-Cook.