Book of Memories for Alphonsus Victor "Phonse" Farrell

Condolence From Nadine Paul

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 14:19:47 EDT

Uncle's passing was a definite shock, and it broke my heart. Auntie Donna, I am so sorry. You both are second parents to me, and I miss him deeply. I wish I could come to Newfoundland and give you a big hug. Uncle Phonse was the funniest man I knew. I would never have a dull moment around him. Our constant razzing of each other was what I loved most. Uncle also had the most amazing outlook on life, the way he lived everyday always has, and will continue to inspire me. I appreciated every moment we had together, and I am so grateful that you guys were able to come up to Toronto to visit last summer. Out of all of the amazing moments that I was able to spend with Uncle, I would say that my only regret was not trying his homemade traditional blood pudding when we came down for Christmas two years ago. But I watched him make it from scratch, and I'm sorry I just couldn't do it. Uncle Phonse will continue be an idol and role model to me, and I will always look up to him. I Loves ya Uncle Stay strong Auntie Donna, I know you are. I love you very much. You are my sunshine xox

Condolence From Geraldine & Baxter Blackmore

Sat, 03 Oct 2015 08:02:48 EDT

Donna, we were so sorry to hear the news of Phonse's death. It has been a long time since we have seen you but I have been in contact with Phonse several times through the Board office. He was certainly well liked and respected. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Rest in peace Phonse.

Condolence From Craig & Cheryl White

Sat, 03 Oct 2015 07:42:13 EDT

I was so sorry to hear of Phonse's sudden passing. I remember the great times that we had at Burton's Pond apartments. Phonse was always ready for a laugh or a deeply philosophical conversation. And we had many! We lost touch after graduation but it was my pleasure to reconnect with him about six years ago when he was principal of Avoca. My wife Cheryl had worked with his school on school development and they made the connection linking me in. I made it a point to visit when I was in the area. And it was as if we had only seen each other a week before. We had several visits over the next couple of years but I'm sorry we never got the opportunity to have that drink we both talked about. His commitment to the school, students and staff was apparent. I'm not surprised to read the heartfelt memories of former students and colleagues here. Donna we only met once years ago but I remember the obvious love you had for each other. I hope you are able to draw strength from family and friends as you work through this difficult time. You are in our prayers and Phonse will ever be in our hearts. Craig and Cheryl

Condolence From Geraldine & Baxter Blackmore

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 00:02:30 EDT

Condolence From Loretta & Kevin Bartlett

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 21:46:52 EDT

Donna, we were both shocked and so saddened to hear of Phonses passing. It's been a few years since our paths have crossed but we were hoping to see both of you soon, now that Phonse had retired. I'm sure he had many great plans for his retirement. Gone way too soon. Our hearts are with you and his family at this very sad time. Hugs, Loretta and Kevin

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Wed, 30 Sep 2015 22:24:23 EDT

Visit to Trenton, 2015

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Wed, 30 Sep 2015 22:24:23 EDT

Visit to Trenton, 2015

Condolence From Patty Callahan

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 18:45:33 EDT

I read Alex's tribute to Phonse. I met Phonse many, many years ago in St. Jacques or in St John's, possibly Grand Falls and maybe all three at some point or another. I remember him with a smile both on his face and on mine. A poet, yes I'm sure! A partier is how I remember him. We crossed paths many times for a short while. Always with the Hickeys. I'm sad to hear that he died just as he was about to enjoy his retirement and his next career. My condolences to his family that I never met. My condolences too, to the Hickey family.

Condolence From MAE AND NISH BARRY

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 18:42:41 EDT

DONNA, WE WERE SO SORRY TO HEAR OF PHONSE 'S PASSING. PLEASE BE ASSURED YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS AT SUCH A SAD AND MOST DIFFICULT TIME.

Condolence From Judy Kelly

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:57:03 EDT

Donna. So very sorry for the sad time you're going through. Life can be cruel at times. My heart, thoughts and prayers are going out to you. "Our loved ones are only on loan"

Condolence From Don Paul

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:55:03 EDT

A truer man I have never known. Loyal and steadfast to himself and his kin, Phonse never forgot where his roots lie and he carried them with him with a profound sense of dignity and pride throughout his life. If there is such a thing as a great man, Phonse was it. I'm honored and humbled that he considered me both as a brother and a friend. I will truly miss you. Long may your big jib draw.

Condolence From Ashley Farrell-Fram

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 15:26:02 EDT

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our friend and cousin Phonse today. He was a very special person who touched many lives and will be sorely missed. Sorry we couldn't be there in person, much love to everyone grieving his loss near and far. Ashley (Farrell) and Scot Fram

Condolence From Michelle and Bernie Power

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 11:37:57 EDT

Donna and Family: Our hearts are with you at this moment as you prepare for the celebration of the life of Phonse. Despite the sadness and devastation in our hearts, his photos clearly show his celebratory spirit. We are so happy that we had the opportunity to reconnect with you and Phonse through Don and Karen. It wasn't surprising to see that Phonse didn't lose his jovial spirit that he was known for twenty-two years ago in our staff room in Norris Arm. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take Care!

Condolence From Jerry Weir

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 08:25:57 EDT

To the Farrell Family, So very sorry to hear of Phonse's passing. Met him when we were both attending Principal's Meetings or other School Board events. I always enjoyed our chats for he was such a genuine, sincere, friendly and fun loving person. From talking with him you quickly learned what a dedicated educator he was. His students always came first. Everyone who knew him, from colleagues to students to family and friends were blessed because they had shared some time together with him. He has indeed left some very special memories. My heartfelt sympathy to all. RIP Phonse

Condolence From Jose Budgell

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 08:24:39 EDT

Dear Donna and family, I was so sad to hear of Phonse's passing. I have such great memories of him especially those regarding Student Leadership. Phonse added so much to every encounter we had weather it was teacher or student meetings. We had so much fun. His contributions with this group will be forever remembered and treasured in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Condolence From Dawn and Bruce Payne

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 22:58:21 EDT

Donna, We were so sorry to hear of Phonse's passing. We have many fond and happy memories of you both when you were here in Fogo. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Dawn and Bruce Payne

Condolence From James Greene

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 22:05:58 EDT

Phonse was a man that had a huge part in making me what I am today. He kept me on the right path and I owe a great deal to him. He was always a great laugh and knew how to enjoy life. He will always be my mentor in more ways than one. My thoughts are with Donna and family as we have all lost a truly great man.

Memorial Candle lit by

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 21:52:49 EDT

James Greene

Condolence From Pastor Robert Parsons

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 21:05:27 EDT

To: Joe & Cathy So sorry for your loss. Please know that your church family are praying for you at this time. God will hold you in his care as you continue to walk toward Him. From: Pastors, staff and congregation, Windsor Pentecostal Church

Condolence From Gail Mccullough & Fred Parsons

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 20:35:06 EDT

Donna & family.. So sorry to hear of Phonse's passing.. Out thoughts & prayers are with you all.. God Bless & Rest in Peace Phonse.

Condolence From Fronie Pritchett

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 20:26:45 EDT

Donna, so sorry to hear about Phonse's passing. Our condolences to you and the family. He was Tyler's social studies teacher, back in the day.....and of course, our neigbours....stay strong...keep the memories near.

Condolence From Brian, Heather Farrell and girls

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 20:02:16 EDT

We are still in shock! It seems like yesterday when Phonse was showing us around St Jacques harbor in his boat. You could tell how much he loved everything about this place. The girls had never been to NFLD and he couldn't wait to tell and show them first hand. Sharing the festival with him, Donna, and the extended family will be a memory we will hold very dear. God Bless and say hi to Uncle Gerald for us!

Condolence From Wade & Ida Sparkes

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 19:25:33 EDT

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 16:40:54 EDT

Donna , Genny and extended families of Phonse. We cannot put into words the shock and sadness of Phonse's sudden passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Dwight enjoyed his conversations with Phonse and I will always have the image of him walking through St. Jacques , with or without his dog , when I would be driving to work in the mornings. He always had a smile and a wave.

Condolence From Linda & Dave Kay

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 16:30:54 EDT

It has been many many years since we last saw Phonse, but have a lot of wonderful memories of our times together when visiting with Monica and Paul. Our deepest condolences go out to all the Farrell family. He will be greatly missed.

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:56:01 EDT

Fonce and Terry

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:56:01 EDT

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:52:19 EDT

Fonce and Gene

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:52:18 EDT

Fonce and Gene

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:52:18 EDT

Fonce and Gene

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:49:38 EDT

Fonce and David

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Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:49:38 EDT

Fonce, Mark and Lainey

Condolence From Anna Armstrong

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 12:31:21 EDT

Genny and family.Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time,may fond and loving memories of Phonse help you through the rough days ahead.God Bless you all and R.I.P. Phonse!

Condolence From Sue Rodgers

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 08:29:42 EDT

I was privileged to work with Phonse over the last five years. Nothing brightened my day like an email or a chat with this guy. His quick sense of humour, the mischievous streak in his eyes, and his true dedication to the students are among the many reasons he will be missed by all. When I saw him the first week of school, it made me smile that he was retired. Godspeed, friend.

Condolence From David Batten and Family

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 07:58:54 EDT

My Dearest Donna no words can express the heart felt grief and feelings that you and your family are struggling through at this time. So all I can send to you at this time Is a warm sincere Hug and Love from our family. The times I did spend with you and the Phonse in your house will always be etched in my memories forever. LOVE David

Condolence From Kevin & Eileen Gunn

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 07:12:08 EDT

Sorry to hear of Phonse's sudden passing. To Donna and the Farrell family, our sincerest condolences.

Condolence From Shirley Bowers

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 06:47:46 EDT

Donna I was shocked to hear of Phonses passing. Life.can really be difficult at times and I know that this is one of those times. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family and I will be praying for you for the days ahead. I'm so sorry. Shirley Bowers

Condolence From Beverly & Stephen Harris

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:38:44 EDT

Donna, We were shocked and saddened to hear of Phonse's sudden passing. Phonse was a man who embraced life to the fullest and always had a smile on his face. Steve was so happy to have seen him this summer while we were home. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and all of your family during this most difficult time. Cherish the wonderful memories you have of a great man. Wishing we were closer during this time. Bev & Steve Harris Doha

Condolence From Steve Pittman

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 21:49:26 EDT

Aunt Genny & Donna, We know how hard this is and want you to know our love, thoughts, and prayers are with you. Phonsie was a good man. We are going to miss him. Allison, Shaun & Steve Pittman

Condolence From Andy

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 21:11:47 EDT

Uncle Phonse will always be the man... He was a second father to me and I will never forget the things he taught me and the memories we have together. I will never forget them. (Well.. From what we remember to begin with...) All jokes aside, Uncle Phonse has been and always will be a big part of shaping the man who I have become. Uncle Phonse will always be with me no matter where I go. I'll never forget the times down at the cottage or the times Uncle Phonse would say something borderline inappropriate that my mom and Auntie Donna didn't seem to find as funny as my sister and I did... He would have us in tears. That's the kind of man Uncle Phonse was and that's the kind of man I hope to be. He always made the best of every situation and always put his loved ones first. Even when we would have a late night out, Uncle Phonse would always make sure I would get home safe. To this day, I often find myself thinking "What would Uncle Phonse do?" because that man could always pull it off. I love you Uncle Phonse. Rest in paradise. You deserve it b'y. Your boy, Andy

Condolence From Melissa Rideout

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 19:47:29 EDT

So sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Farrell.. I remember him teaching me in Norris Arm when I was younger.. very great teacher.. He will be missed by so many.. My thoughts and prayers with your family..

Condolence From Ruth Lawrence & Des Walsh

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 19:46:36 EDT

We were both so heartbroken when we heard that Phonse was taken so suddenly. He was such a special person. From the time I was a little girl, I have strong memories. When he left St. Jacques, it had a huge impact on us all because he was such a strong presence in the harbour. When he came back, it was time to celebrate. I was so happy to see Phonse and Donna come back and welcome us into their beautiful home. We will miss him dearly and are thinking of you all with love.

Condolence From Gordon Hiscock& Family

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 19:14:54 EDT

Donna & family i was deeply shocked to learn of Phonse's sudden passing my heartfelt sympathy is sent your way at this most difficult time My prayers and thoughts are with you keep up your spirit LOve Gordon & family

Condolence From Wayne and Judy Wells Halifax

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 19:11:41 EDT

To Donna, Wayne and I were shocked and saddened last evening when Ray called us with the news about Phonse. Please know we are thinking about you at this sad and difficult time. We all know that life is full of struggles and at this time we must question why your family has been called once again to walk through this dark valley. Right now there is little anyone can say that will ease your broken heart but please be assured of our prayers for you and all of your family members in the coming days. May God give you strength and precious memories as you face each tomorrow. We send you our love and deepest sympathy.

Condolence From Paula Janes

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 18:16:13 EDT

Donna & family, My sincerest condolences to you all. I have many fond memories of Phonse. From the staff room at Glovertown Academy to principal's meetings and of course Student Leadership Conferences. Phonse embrased life with a passion and everyone who meet him could see that. He will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time, take strength in each other.

Condolence From Gertie and don dicesare

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 18:07:42 EDT

Dear jenny, So sorry to hear about phonsies passing. Thinking of you at this time of sorrow. I didn't know phonse but I will never forget your kindness to our family and your help when I was sick many years ago in st. Johns. Gertie and don dicesare

Condolence From Gertie and don dicesare

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 18:01:33 EDT

Condolence From Loretta & Kevin Bartlett

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 17:58:30 EDT

Condolence From Susanne (Murphy) Ivey

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 17:38:26 EDT

Donna, thinking of you at this time.

Condolence From Marg (Fitzpatrick) Lannon

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 17:21:14 EDT

Dear Genevieve & Farrell family, it is with great sadness that I write this today. Phonse has never & will never be forgotten from my childhood memories. He was like a little brother to me & my sister Theresa & I feel certain he thought of us at the time as a sibling. We spent most of his earliest years with him & even though our lives took different paths I often thought of him & was very happy to know that he had a very successful career & a great life. I was very pleased to have crossed paths with him once again, several years ago, in Gander. I have read most of the messages that have been left here & can clearly see how much he was loved & appreciated. He will always hold a little piece of my heart & I will keep you & the family in my prayers.

Condolence From Shirley Lee Foley

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:42:35 EDT

Donna & Family, Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your husband. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence From John Dennison

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:47:52 EDT

Cheers and kindness my friend you will be forever fondly remembered and toasted to on those special occasions that we both kept close. "It is better lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory..." - Nelson Mandella "Kindness is the language the deaf can hear and the blind can see" - Mark Twain

Condolence From Jan & Gerry Ralph

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:26:47 EDT

Donna so sorry to hear of Phonses Passing. You and all your family are in our thoughts. We know you both had wonderful years together. Phonse died as he lived. He will be missed. ⚓️

Condolence From Bonnie and Frank McCarthy

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:25:56 EDT

Donna and family, so sorry to hear about the passing of Phonse. Phonse was a positive,kind, compassionate, and caring person. He was a respectful person and this respect was reciprocated by everyone he met. We are better people because we knew Phonse as a friend and colleague. We will remember Phonse in our prayers. Phonse, rest in peace.

Condolence From Kevin & Monique White

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 13:59:56 EDT

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 09:55:07 EDT

Words cannot express how sad we are about Phonse. We thought of Phonse more like a brother and not just a cousin. Growing up with him was special and we all looked so forward to your visits to Sydney. Donna and Gen our hearts are broken for you and you know that Phonse had a huge welcoming committee when he arrived in heaven. Reading all the tributes can only make your heart swell with love knowing what a special person Phonse was and how he affected other lives so much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Wanda and Paul

Condolence From Jan & Gerry Ralph

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 09:21:12 EDT

Donna so sorry to hear of Phonses Passing. You and all your family are in our thoughts. We know you both had wonderful years together. Phonse died as he lived. He will be missed. ⚓️

Condolence From Jan & Gerry Ralph

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 09:20:28 EDT

Donna so sorry to hear of Phonses Passing. You and all your family are in our thoughts. We know you both had wonderful years together. Phonse died as he lived. He will be missed. ⚓️

Condolence From Eithne Daly

The staff and students at Hillside Elementary send their deepest sympathies to Phonse's family and friends at this difficult time.

Condolence From Denise Penny

Mrs. Farrell, I don't even know where to begin. I am so, so sorry to hear of Mr. Farrell's passing....and yes, even though I have long since become an adult, he will always be Mr. Farrell to me. I have so many wonderful memories of Mr. Farrell - the earliest being when he assisted Derek Blackwood's Level I Math class because there were too many of us for him to run the class on his own. However, my favourite lessons with him were in Canadian History when I was in Grade 11. He taught that class with a great passion, and wanted to make sure we appreciated the full story of how Canada had been molded into the country it is today. My love for history was born that year, and I don't know if my interest would have been sparked the same if it weren't for him. He was also my homeroom teacher during grades 11 and 12. My favourite memory with Mr. Farrell happened at the end of Grade 12, which had been a difficult academic year for me. I had taken on a lot of the tougher courses, and the load had been a challenge to say the least. After final exams were over, my grades had taken a bit of a nosedive, and I was beside myself with disappointment. That day, Mr. Farrell took me aside and made sure to build up my confidence as high as it had ever been. He told me I was just as good as anyone else who would walk through the doors at MUN in the coming fall, and he knew I would succeed. Then, he gave me the biggest hug, and I have carried that with me after all of these years...we must never underestimate the power of a teacher who believes in you! I am sure he has built up the confidence of many other students in the same way. Of course, from there our relationship would change from student/teacher to colleagues, when he became my mentor teacher during my Teaching Internship. I considered it a privilege to learn under him then, and still do today. It was a rite of passage for me in many ways, and I am so glad that I got to experience it with Mr. Farrell as my guide. At the end of my term, he gave me a book, "The Chronicles of Uncle Mose" by Ted Russell, and had written a beautiful message inside. I cherished it then, and I will cherish it even more now that he is gone. I am heartbroken, as I am sure many of his other students and colleagues are too. May you find comfort in the memories and kind words of all those who Mr. Farrell touched over the course of his life. He was a wonderful man, and we are all the better for having known him. Sincere Condolences, Valerie (Sweetapple) Brown

Condolence From Dave & Margot Hamlyn

Sun, 27 Sep 2015 20:40:21 EDT

So sad to hear of Phonses' passing. A genuine and sincere man who had a calmness about him that was appreciated, I am certain, by everyone who came into contact with him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, students and colleagues.

Condolence From Devon Noel

Sun, 27 Sep 2015 16:01:12 EDT

Mr.Farrell was my principal until he retired in June. Everyone in my school loved him so much. Everytime I walked by he would rub me on the head and say what are you at Noel. I will miss him so much, rest in peace Mr. Farrell.

Condolence From Bernard & Nina Woodfine

Sun, 27 Sep 2015 15:25:31 EDT

I just heard the news of Phonses' passing. It was a shock to me as I am sure to everyone else. Phonse was a great guy and looked forward to starting retirement. He was a wonderful counselor and Principal. He will be missed greatly.

Condolence From Dianne & Len Knox & Family

Sun, 27 Sep 2015 11:39:25 EDT

Donna and family We just got back to the province early Sunday morning and were so unbelievably shocked to hear that phonse had passed suddenly. We know that you and the entire family must be so devastated now and are asking why. During the time we got to know phonse we were so impressed with his positive, friendly and welcoming personality. Just speaking with him left any person feeling better. That is special and he was a very special person for sure. Words cannot bring you the comfort that you want but please know that we are thinking of you and wishing you peace of mind. Please accept our condolences and deepest sympathy during this very difficult time. Dianne & Len Knox and family