A powerful memoir of resilience, family, and faith, capturing the pioneer spirit of early 20th-century Canada. This inspiring true story reveals the grit, grace, and heart behind one man's unforgettable journey.
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About J. Arthur Sheil
J. Arthur Sheil (Art) is the third child in a family of 7, born in Northwestern Ontario in 1940. He is an ordained minister who served in pastoral ministry for 17 years. That career was interrupted by 29 years as the Executive Director of a Not-for Profit agency that provided residential treatment for adolescent girls, custody and detention facilities for young offenders, and homes for persons with developmental challenges. He retired at 81 after serving another 13 years as in pastoral ministry
Beside this book, Art has published a book on Management which was based on the work of Dr William Glasser’s concept of Internal Control Psychology. In 30 years as a clergyman he has written hundreds of sermons.
He is married to Fran. They will celebrate 59 years of marriage this year. They have three children, Barb, Karen, and Lauren, and three grandchildren, Meghan, Jamie, and Gillian. For many years Art operated a hobby farm and enjoys gardening. His other hobby involves woodworking and most recently has turned his hand to making a variety of string instruments.
Buy The Book
This book is a deeply moving memoir that chronicles the life of Percy Sheil, a man who rose above adversity to build a meaningful and lasting legacy. Born with a hearing impairment and raised on a Canadian dairy farm, Percy faced immense challenges from a young age. Through vivid storytelling, readers are taken on a journey across early 20th-century Canada—from harvest excursions and logging camps to the hard-earned rewards of homesteading in Northwestern Ontario. The narrative highlights not only the physical hardships of pioneer life but also the emotional strength it took to endure loss, rebuild, and keep dreaming. Along the way, Percy’s ingenuity, work ethic, and unwavering values shine through, especially in his dedication to family and faith. The book also offers a rare, first-person glimpse into rural life, community bonds, and the impact of the Great Depression. With touching reflections and humble wisdom, the story honors a vanishing generation whose lives were rooted in self-reliance, hope, and quiet heroism. It’s a timeless tale of building a life from the ground up—literally and spiritually. Readers will come away inspired by this honest and heartfelt portrait of a truly remarkable man.
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