The Tribune

FATHER’S Day will be bittersweet for the family of Charles Zonicle, who will continue to mourn his death and reflect on the fond memories they shared while he was alive.

Mr Zonicle, who was the father of nine children and husband to Celeta, passed away on November 26, 2014, at the age of 86.

His children, grandchildren and other members of the Zonicle family said that although “Daddy” is no longer with them, they will cherish the person he was every opportunity they get.

Mr Zonicle was born on February 15, 1928, in Cat Island and was the last of six children. As a boy, he grew up with strong Christian background, attending Sunday school and church every Sunday.

Before his passing, Mr Zoncicle was a skilled carpenter and this trade led him to New Providence. He also worked in Florida doing whatever he could do to support his family. It was there that he met his future wife, Celeta Moss from Chesters, Acklins.

They fell in love and married on September 29, 1952. Mr Zonicle and his wife were blessed with nine children, who they adored and loved unconditionally.

“Daddy loved all of his children, but especially his girls,” a message on behalf of his children stated.

“As I reflect, I remember days when he would come home from work. We would race to see who would be the first to change his work shoes. I can still also remember us racing to see which one would get the chance to lay on his cheats as he relaxed in the hammock after a long day’s work.”

In 1952, Mr Zonicle joined the PLP as a branch chairman, where he served for more than 40 years. He campaigned with former Governor General Arthur Hanna and continued to support the PLP by assisting those who where oppressed and underprivileged in the community.

He later assisted and volunteered his time with the Free National Movement.

“Daddy believed that one should have diversity of interests. He had his own people-to-people programme in Cat Island,” his children said. “He loved people and introduced his children to many different cultures and welcomed those tourists who visited Cat Island all the way from their home towns in Germany, Switzerland, the US and many other places.”

Family Tribute

“Dear Dad,

It has been a long, painful and weary six months since you left us, yet the wounds are still open and our collective hearts bleed.

Every day with each passing moment, especially on Fathers Day, we pause to celebrate our lion. With a grateful heart, we thank you for all the sacrifices made on our behalf and lessons taught that will live out in the life of your children and indeed generations to come.

We remember you, Dad, with the promise that early morning brings and the quietness that unfolds at dusk.

We remember you with the serenity in the hill of Burbon and Lightfoot. We contemplate your presence in the crash in of the waves.

Daddy, we remember you in the cries of the seagulls and in the powerful crescendo of symphony. And though you may be gone, you now watch on us from a distance.”