CAIRNS, Laura Catherine - 88, Whycocomagh, Inverness County, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family Tuesday, July 13, 2010, in Victoria County Memorial Hospital, Baddeck. Born in Whycocomagh, she was the daughter of the late David Clair and Susan Green (Johnson) Austen. Laura was a member of Stewart United Church, Bayville Senior Citizen's Club, Branch #123 Royal Canadian Legion and Dr. Gordon MacLeod Chapter No. 37 Order of the Eastern Star, Whycocomagh. At an early age, Laura enlisted with the Woman’s Division of the Royal Canadian Air Force, where she was stationed in Newfoundland. She later moved to Halifax, Montreal, and Toronto, where she worked as a medical secretary for over 30 years. She particularly enjoyed her yearly visits back to Cape Breton to visit family and friends. Upon retiring, Laura returned to Whycocomagh where she became known to everyone as “Aunt Laura”. Laura enjoyed reading, especially political biographies, and she was well versed in world events. She was a great supporter of many worldwide humanitarian charities and many wildlife organizations. While she loved all animals, she had a particular fondness for her many feline friends. Laura had a great sense of humor, enjoyed a good game of cards, "sweet" treats, feeding the birds, entering Reader's Digest contests and watching old movies. She is survived by nephews Brent (Becky) Austen, Whycocomagh; David (Marianne) Austen, Wayne (Mary) Austen, Milford (Judy) Austen, all of Antigonish; John (Madeleine) Austen, Fort McMurray, Alberta; many grandnephews and nieces, great-grand nephews and nieces, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by brothers Manton (Lillian) Austen, Fred (Edith) Austen; nephew Donald; niece Juanita (Earl) Matthews; great-grand nephew Noah Scott MacEachern. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or funeral, by request. Members of The Royal Canadian Legion and The Order of the Eastern Star will hold a private service on Monday, July 19th at 10:00 a.m. at Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Whycocomagh. Immediately following, all family and friends are invited to attend a graveside committal service at 10:30 am at Stewartdale Cemetery with Rev. Donna Tourneur officiating. Donations in Laura’s memory may be made to the SPCA of Nova Scotia, Stewartdale Cemetery, or the charity of one’s choice. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Whycocomagh. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com Service Information Service Date Monday, July 19, 2010