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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
BLACKWELL, Eugene (Blackie) - Passed away Dec. 14, 2015. Peacefully in his 91st year at Parkwood Veterans Hospital with family at his side. Thanks to all the staff at Parkwood for their excellent care.
Blackie was on the HMCS ST STEPHEN K454, which was a river-class frigate. His duty was in the North Atlantic, and mostly comprised of being an escort for Merchant Navy vessels taking men and materials from Canada to London, England.
World War II ended on Blackie's birthday. When asked about VE Day by a newspaper he told them that he was on North Atlantic Convoy Duty between Newfoundland and Londonderry, Ireland. He was on the gunnery crew using twin four-inch guns.
After the war Blackie left the navy and shortly after joined the Royal Canadian Army as an artillery gunner. During this time he fired a salute to Queen Elizabeth II 2 times. In his heart he was always a Navy guy.
Blackie was a fixture at Masonville Mall, and I heard many of his stories over coffee, and his sense of humour and pride in his service made him a joy to talk with. He was always joking around, always trying to charm the ladies, and last time I saw him at Parkwood the other old Veterans were laughing, telling me about Blackie trying to lure young nurses back to his room at the age of 90. (The Remember November 11 Association on Facebook)
Ships served in:
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