In Loving Memory of Ivan E. Hallihan

1935 – 2024

We are deeply saddened to share that Ivan Ernest Hallihan passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024, just 13 days before his 89th birthday. He had been courageously battling health issues for a long time and was surrounded by his loving family at Percy's Place Hospice in Miramichi.

Born in Renous, NB, on November 28, 1935, Ivan was the son of the late Frank and Loretta (Manderville) Hallihan.

He is survived by his wife Leona (MacDonald), with whom he shared 64 wonderful years; their three daughters, Judy Losier (Dr. Gerard) of Miramichi, Colleen Hallihan Power of Miramichi, and Jennifer Walker (Matthew) of Barcelona, Spain; and their son Bruce Hallihan (Ronda) of Fredericton. Ivan also leaves behind seven grandchildren - Dr. Evan Losier, Jantzen Losier, Aiden Hallihan, Lauren Hallihan, Logan Power, Kale Power, and Trent Power - and a great-grandchild, Brooks Ivan MacDonald, along with his brother Robert G. Hallihan of Renous, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his two sisters, Iona Williston and Elsie Bryenton, and two brothers, Frankie and Leo Hallihan.

Ivan was a highly respected and well-liked firefighter for 35 years with the Chatham Fire Department, retiring as Lieutenant in 2000. He took great pride in keeping the fire station and grounds clean and beautiful, especially his flower beds. Known for his fun bingo calls at the fire hall, Ivan loved to bring a lighter spirit to his heavy-natured profession with his jovial personality and wicked sense of humour.

In the community, Ivan made a difference as a softball coach and by volunteering for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and Muscular Dystrophy. He was a devoted member of St. Michael's Basilica for over 60 years, where he helped with collections every week and participated in the church committee for the weekly Pot of Gold draw.

Ivan had a love for music; he enjoyed playing the piano, accordion, banjo, and guitar. He was also a talented cartoonist and found joy in painting homes and businesses with great care. Ivan was a larger-than-life figure who made friends wherever he went. He will be greatly missed for his devotion to family, cooking skills, incredibly kind heart, and love of sports, especially his Toronto Maple Leafs.

In honour of the family’s wishes, there was no visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Michael’s Basilica, located at 10 Howard St., Miramichi, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 11 a.m., with The Reverend Father John Beaumaster as Celebrant, and The Reverend Father Dan Bastarache, and The Reverend Father Leon Creamer as Concelebrants. Music for the service was provided by Organist, David Bunnell, the St. Michael's Basilica Choir and Soloist, Dawn MacDonald Patterson.  The entrance hymn was: "Here I am Lord", followed by "The Lord is my Shepherd", "Ave Maria", "Be Not Afraid", "Songs of the Angels", with the recessional being "On Eagle's Wings". The First Reading was read by Aiden Hallihan.  The Second Reading was read by Jantzen Losier.  Prayers of the Faithful were proclaimed by Kale Power.  The Eulogy was presented by Judy Losier and Bruce Hallihan.  The Active Pallbearers were:  Dr. Evan Losier, Aiden Hallihan, Lauren Hallihan, Jantzen Losier, Logan Power, Kale Power, and Trent Power.  The Honorary Pallbearers were:  Frank & Carole Kane, The Reverend Father Dan Bastarache, Lorraine Glazier, Lillian Williston, Donnie MacDonald, Laurie & Deanna Baldwin, Gerry & Patricia Carroll, Leonard & Alice Bryenton, Ron & Pam Hallihan, Gerald & Sandy Williston, Kathy & Dwain Hallihan, Jocelyn & Greg Doucet, Pat Hogan, Dr. Gerard Loiser, and Peter Malley.  Members of the Miramichi Fire Department formed a Guard of Honor.  Members of the Miramichi Rotary sat as a special group.  Interment was in St. Michael’s Cemetery.  A reception for all followed in the Parish, Hall, St. Michael's Basilica. 

The family would like to thank the Oncology team at Miramichi Region 7 Hospital, Nursing staff of the Miramichi Extra Mural Hospital, Physicians of the Hematology-Oncology Department at Moncton City Hospital and the exceptional staff at Percy's Place Hospice for their care and support.

In memory of Ivan, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or Percy's Place (www.percysplace.ca).

Arrangements were entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, NB; telephone (506) 773-3492. Messages of condolences may also be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca

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