Obituary of Albert Jackson Ball

BALL, Albert J. Upper North Sydney 1942-2021 BALL, Albert Jackson - 79, It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Albert Jackson Ball of Upper North Sydney on October 15th 2021. He left this world peacefully. Born in Balls Creek, Cape Breton, he was a son of the late Ernest and Margaret (Jackson) Ball. He was one of six children, and is survived by his sisters, Phyllis and Marylin; brothers, Vernon, Jeptha and Nelson. Albert married the love of his life Jacqueline (Mansfield), who passed away in the fall of 2004 after 39 yrs of marriage. His greatest achievement in life was his family and his children, Albert David (Edelaine), Katherine (Glen) and Nicole (Steve). Albert also leaves behind four grandchildren, Leah (Tyler), Adam, Lucas and Noah who all loved his stories and endless teasing. He also leaves behind his two great-grandchildren, Brea and Jasper whom Albert very much enjoyed spending time with when he had the opportunity. Albert received his diploma in small engine repair and supported his family in the early years by fixing and selling small equipment and snow mobiles. In addition, Albert worked tirelessly cutting pulp wood, setting up a sawmill with his brother Vernon, delivering propane and then as a milkman and driver for Cape Breton Dairymen which later became Scotsburn Dairy from where he retired after 35 years of service. Albert was very active in the local poultry, waterfowl and pigeon fancier clubs for many years, showing his prize birds at exhibitions all over the Maritimes. He also became very active with showing and racing horses and was especially proud of his Hackney and Morgan show horses as well as his standardbreds, which if you asked him, were the fastest ponies on the east coast. At a young age Albert had a passion for having lots of animals around to keep him company. The family has many memories and stories around the multitude of dogs, cats, horses, chickens, geese, pigeons, pigs, goats, and cattle that were always present on the old Jackson homestead where he raised his family. There are also plenty of stories of his passion for looking at used lawn tractors and the many flea markets and auctions which he and Jacqueline loved to spend their time looking for treasures. After Jackie passed, Albert found himself somewhat lost and became involved in the Sydney Mines Seniors and Pensioners Club, where he met many new friends and a new companion (Dolly) whom he enjoyed spending time with. Albert was all about simplicity and the uncomplicated. He very much liked to do things for himself and would never give up no matter the challenge. He lived his life well and left his mark on all of us who knew him. He was well loved and will be missed very much. Special Thank You to the Health Care Workers at the Veterans Unit in Pictou for giving our Dad such loving and wonderful care for the past few months. This has been truly appreciated. The family will be holding a private service where Albert’s ashes will be laid to rest next to his loving wife Jacqueline, and asks that any donations made in Albert's memory go towards your local animal shelter, Sutherland Harris Memorial Hospital Northumberland Veterans Unit, or charity of choice.