Elias Metlej

METLEJ, Elias - 79, Halifax. It is with heavy hearts and great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved, Elias. He was a brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a friend to all. Born in Diman, Lebanon, he moved to Halifax in 1955 where he spent the duration of his life. He passed away peacefully on January 8, 2010, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was a son of the late Tannous and Theresa (Faddoul) Metlej. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marie (Salah); son, Anthony (Sabah); brother, George, Australia; sister, Samira (Alam), Australia; sister, Marie, Lebanon; grandchildren, Elias (Laina), Anne (David) Kabalen, and David; and great-grandchildren, Téa, Anthony, Talia, Michael and Sophie. He was predeceased by his daughters, Therese, Marie Rose, Theresa Anne, and Anne Marie; and sisters, Debbie (Chedrawe), Georgette (Metlej), and Amira (Chedrawe). Elias was a wise man whose Faith and passion for life were as strong as the roots of the Cedars of Lebanon. Through him, many family and friends immigrated to Halifax from Lebanon. Everyone knew and loved his keen sense of humour. We will all miss the twinkle in his eyes along with his green thumb. Visitation will be held today from 7-9 p.m. and Sunday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor St., Halifax. Funeral will be Monday, January 11, at 10 a.m. in Saint Thomas Aquinas Church, 1725 Oxford St., Halifax. Father James Mallon, officiating, assisted by Father Pierre Azzi. Burial at the Gates of Heaven Cemetery, Sackville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society. Many thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Palliative Care Unit, VG Site, QEII.

"Giddou, you are playing with the angels now."