Obituary of Michael Christopher Cannell

Rev. Michael Christopher Cannell, 75, Hopewell, formerly of Yarmouth and Moncton, passed away peacefully at home, Tuesday, July 11, 2023.

Born in Moncton, he was a son of the late John Thomas George and Beatrice Alice (Truss) Cannell.  For the first 25 years, Michael was an automotive equipment sales and service technician. In 2002 Michael felt “the call” to ministry and enrolled at Acadia Divinity College, from where he graduated in October 2004 with a Bachelor of Theology. While attending college, he pastored the Seabright, Indian Harbour and West Dover Baptist Churches. In 2006 Mike became the pastor of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Yarmouth County where he served until May of 2017 where he made many friends. In 2021, Mike and his wife, Debbie, relocated to Hopewell, Pictou County where they thoroughly enjoyed retirement. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, Westville, where he served as a Deacon, and occasionally preached. Mike served as the Maritime Field Representative for The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Canada from 2020 – 2022 Mike enjoyed fishing, doing woodwork, gardening, and reading. He cherished time spent with his family and was happiest when they were all together. Above all, he loved his Savior, and although saddened at his passing, his family are comforted to know that “absent from the body”, Mike is present with his Lord.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Debbie (Eckert); daughter, Jennifer Cannell, Stanchel, P.E.I.; sons, Robert (Nicole) Cannell, Stanhope, P.E.I.; Stephen (Michelle) Cannell, Upper Lawrencetown; grandchildren,  Marie and Anna Herman; Loman and Gabriella Cannell; Noah and Amelia Cannell;  niece, Maggie; nephew, Peter.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by brothers, Jack and John; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, July 14, 2023, in Bethel Baptist Church, Westville with Rev. Robert Ryggs officiating.

Donations may be made in memory of Michael to The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Canada.