Obituary of Francis Arthur Rossong

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Francis (Nick) Rossong at the age of 91.  Francis was born on Nov 19th, 1934 to John and Blanche (Casey) Rossong in Hazel Hill, Canso. 

Francis is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Mary Rossong, with whom he shared many wonderful years of memories, partnership and devotion. 

He was the proud father to Joe (Lindiwe) Rossong and Cathy (Jody) Breen, and cherished grandfather to Taylor, Aiden, Madison, and Brayden, whom he adored and who in turn adored him.  His stories, humour, and warmth created memories they will carry with them forever.

Francis began working at a young age with Gottschall Brothers and spent the majority of is career at Mount St. Bernard, where he was known for his strong work ethic, steadfast reliability, and humble nature. His quiet determination and willingness to help others earned him deep respect from neighbors, friends, family and co-workers. As an avid outdoorsman, he loved to share stories about his hunting and fishing adventures and enjoyed his daily stroll over to the garage to visit his special friend Mike and the boys. 

A devoted family man, Francis was predeceased by his parents, siblings Hughie, John Jr (Bernice), Fred, Jimmy, Bobby, Sophie (Mike) Gottschall, Mary (Colin) MacIsaac, a sister in infancy, and brothers-in-law Achie MacPherson, and Sid Dewar. He is survived by his loving sisters Kaye MacPherson (Ralph), Antigonish, Theresa Dewar, Sault Ste Marie and sisters-in-law Lorraine Rossong (Ralph), Jean Rossong, Olive Rossong, brother-in-law Steve Oakley, and many neighbors, nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Simms, Dr. Fogarty, and Dr. Howard, as well as the dedicated nurses and support staff in the PCU and Palliative Care Units at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital for the excellent care, compassion and kindness shown to our dad/husband. 

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 pm on Thursday, Dec 18th in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish. Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Friday, Dec 19th in St. Ninian’s Cathedral, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital or a charity of your choice.