Wesley A. Cann, Sr., age 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 8, 2006, at The Suffield House, with his daughter and son at his side. He was the beloved husband of the late Harriet Cann for 63 years. Mr. Cann previously resided with his wife in Southbury, CT for over 50 years.

Mr. Cann was born Dec. 3, 1912 in Cranston, RI, the son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Cann. Mr. Cann, a gifted tenor, was invited to audition at the Metropolitan Opera Company in New York, won the first Major Bowes' Amateur Hour contest, and soloed at numerous concerts with the GE Victory Band, the Norwalk Civic Opera, and the Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra, among others. He also appeared coast to coast on NBC Radio.

Mr. Cann chose a path other than opera, and devoted himself to his family, his work, his community, and his church. For more than 50 years, he offered his beautiful voice to the choirs, first at Devon Union Church in Milford, CT, and later at the United Church of Christ in Southbury, CT. He was an unofficial member of the Southbury Garden Club, founded by his wife Harriet, where he provided his excellent carpentry skills at their frequent flower shows. He was also an unofficial member of the Women's Fellowship at his church, where he assisted along with his wife at the many church fairs and potluck dinners. Mr. Cann worked as the Plant Engineer at Kerite Cable Company in Seymour, CT, and maintained the smooth operation of the factory until his retirement. Mr. Cann was happiest having a cup of tea on his breezeway with Harriet, spending time with his grandchildren, or working in his basement on a family project while singing along to his favorite opera. He will be best remembered for his decency, loyalty, and his gentle heart.

Mr. Cann is survived by his son, Wesley A. Cann, Jr. and his wife Karla, of Wilmington, NC, his daughter Linda Pearson of Vernon, CT, his four grandchildren Dulari Pearson, Erika Cann, Jessica Cann and Tyler Cann. Mr. Cann is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Bishop of Stratford, CT and Ann Stanton of Southbury, CT, and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Cann was predeceased by a sister Phyllis Fladd, and two brothers, Morton and Stanley.

Mr. Cann's family wishes to express their special appreciation to the staff at The Suffield House, especially Alice, Darlene, Glenda, Ruthie and Rose, who provided incredible care, kindness and support both to Mr. Cann and his family during a very difficult time.

Memorials: Memorial contributions can be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association at: Connecticut Chapter/APDA, 27 Allendale Drive, North Haven, CT 06473, or to a charity of the donor's choice

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Funeral: United Church of Christ

Services: A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2006 at 1: 00 pm at the United Church of Christ, 283 Main Street North, Southbury, CT. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

Visitation: No calling hours.