Leonard Claude Thompson

Thompson, Leonard Claude – Age 61 of Enfield, passed away October 24, 2019 at home following a short illness. Born in Elmsdale, he was a son of the late John and Isabel (White) Thompson. 

Most of his working life he was employed as a machine operator by Basin Contracting and Dexter Construction. He was always a hard-working man who would help anyone out.

Surviving are nieces, Chelsey, Allison and Jenna; nephews, Nathan, Jonathan (Shanda); sister-in-law, Cynthia Edgett (Tony). He was predeceased by his brother, Charles.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Enfield Legion. Memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada Atlantic Branch.

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John James Ritchie “Jim” Hill

Hill, John James Ritchie “Jim” – Age 70 of Fletchers Lake, passed away October 21, 2019 in Hospice Halifax. Born in Campbellton, N.B., he was a son of the late Leola (Ritchie) Sealy.

Jim was a kind and gentle man who loved his family very much. He was a 26-year member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Surviving are wife, Debbie (Walsh) Hill, Fletchers Lake; brother, Dave Hill; stepfather, Keith Sealy, god daughter, Paula Hill, all of London, Ont.; son, Steven and his family, Fall River; stepson, Shayne Covey and his family, Lantz. He was predeceased by sister, Bonnie Hill; maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Freda Ritchie.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Halifax.

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Ruth Elaine (Blesedell) Hayden

Hayden (Blesedell) Ruth Elaine – With gratitude and love for a life well lived, the family announces the peaceful passing of Ruth Elaine (Blesedell) Hayden, 97, on October 16, 2019. Ruth was born in Mira to Rev. John Milford and Annie Rena (Doncaster) Blesedell.

As the daughter of a Baptist minister, Ruth lived in many places including Cape Breton, Shelburne, Grand Manan, Guysborough and North River, P.E.I. After completing a business course at Prince of Wales College, her working life began in Woodstock, then moved on to Moncton and eventually to Halifax.

During those working years, Ruth enjoyed playing badminton, skating, and being a part of a sorority. She studied voice and enjoyed singing in church choirs wherever she lived. While visiting her parents in Sable River in 1956, she met the love of her life, a handsome local bachelor Alburn Hayden, whom she married in 1958. They settled into married life on the family farm in Jordan Falls and welcomed three children in the next four years. After the death of her husband in 1970, Ruth was employed as the administrative assistant to the Supervisor of Schools where she remained until her retirement. Throughout her life in Jordan Falls, she was immersed in raising her family and serving her church. She served in many capacities in the Jordan Falls United Baptist Church including being appointed their first female deacon.

It wasn’t until into her 80s that Ruth eventually left her beloved home on Hayden’s Road and moved to Brookfield to be close to family. She remained living independently in her own apartment until the age of 94. She was affectionately known as “Mrs. Christie” by the residents in her building for the freshly baked cookies or goodies she prepared for each Saturday morning coffee time.

Ruth was predeceased by her parents, her husband; and her sister, Doris (Jelly). She is survived by daughters, Cynthia (Gower) Fiander, Brenda Hayden; and son, Stephen (Anna); as well as her sister-in-law, Margaret Smith, Massachussetts. She will be dearly missed by her three nieces, nephew, nine grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

A celebration of life service, conducted by Rev. Frank Locke, will be held on October 19th, at 11 a.m. in Brookfield Baptist Church. No formal visitation will take place, however, family will be available from 10:15-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Friends in the area are welcome to join Ruth’s family at the committal at 4 p.m. in Locust Hill Cemetery, Hayden’s Road, Jordan Falls.

The family sincerely thanks the staff at both East Cumberland Lodge and Elk Court for the compassionate and exceptional care that Ruth received. If so wished, donations in memory of Ruth may be made to Brookfield Baptist Church or Stephen Hardy Hayden Memorial Cemetery Fund in Jordan Falls.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Freda Laura (Kaulback) Keddy

Keddy (Kaulback), Freda Laura – Our family is sad to announce the peaceful passing of Freda Laura (Kaulback) Keddy of Elderbank on October 16, 2019 in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital. Freda was a daughter of the late Russell and Edna Kaulback (Middle Musquodoboit).

Freda was a homemaker and mother who devoted her life to others. She was a lifelong member of St. Andrew’s United Church where she served the community as a UCW member, Sunday school teacher, and also was a hospital auxiliary worker. She was a very active member of the seniors’group and Lionettes. Freda and Joe loved to attend Saturday night dances with friends. Her wonderful smile would light up the room. She loved to play crib with her husband, Joe, on many evenings before bed. She enjoyed baking and always had something made for her grandchildren and anyone who visited. She connected with heartfelt caring and understanding with everyone she came in contact with. Freda cherished her children, grandchildren and friends and we all adored her in return. She was a compassionate and loving person of steadfast character who inspired her family, as well as the entire community. She will be greatly missed but leaves a legacy of love and caring gathered over her 91 years.

Freda is survived by her sister, Mary; brother, Ralph; sons, Shane (Bonnie), Joel, Troy (Shanda); daughter, Lisa (Brian); grandchildren, Seth, Justin, Holly, Tyler, Spencer, Jordan, Kaitlyn, Avery, Madison; great-granddaughter, Millie Laura. She was predeceased by her husband, Joe; brothers, Aubrey, Earl.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 20 in St. Andrew’s United Church, Elderbank, with Calvin Burt, student minister, officiating. A reception will follow downstairs in the church. Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew’s United Church.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Fewer and all the staff of Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital for their support and genuine caring, as well as the homecare workers who helped mom through her stay at home.

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Henrik Paattinen

Paattinen, Henrik – Age 78, of Lower Sackville, passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2019 in QEII Health Sciences Centre, Infirmary Site.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharron; son, Kari; daughter, Carina Bennett (Gavin); grandson, Damian, all of Fall River; stepdaughter, Colette Jones (Ian); step-grandchildren, Hunter and Ethan, all of Saint John; stepson, Andre Bourque (Wnela); stepgrandson, Evan, all of Gatineau; sisters, Irja Walden, Ritva Wahlroos, both of Finland; and his loving nieces and nephews. Henrik was predeceased by his first wife, Laila Lainio.

Henrik immigrated to Canada from Finland in 1967 and was highly skilled in the steel fabrication industry throughout the HRM area for over 50 years. He took great pride in his work and accomplishments. He had a passion for music and was a gifted musician, helping establish the Fall River Saturday Night Community Jam Session. Henrik possessed “joie de vivre” and could brighten a room with his smile and a warm handshake. He will be sadly missed by his family, many friends, and work associates. Henrik had been a grateful member of AA for over 20 years. He enjoyed the fellowship and support he received in the program.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 24 in St. Thomas Anglican Church, Fall River, 3534 Hwy. 2 Fletchers Lake. A reception will follow. Donations in Henrik’s memory may be made to St. Thomas Anglican Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Bonnie Lynn MacKay

MacKay, Bonnie Lynn– Age 73, of Truro. With saddened hearts the family of Bonnie Lynn MacKay announces her passing on Saturday, October 12th, 2019 at home. Born in Middle Musquodoboit, she was the daughter of the late Clyde and Mary (Pineo) Holman.

Bonnie worked at Hermes Electronics, Dartmouth, for many years and after moving to Truro, she was employed with Federal Pioneer Ltd. for 19 years before retirement. After retiring, Bonnie cared for children in her home. She loved each one of them and they all were special to her. She was also a past member of Truro Lions Club where she willingly gave her time and effort to improve her community.

Surviving are her brother, Bruce (Gail), Truro; nephews, Devin, Red Deer, Alberta; Shane (Krista), Truro; grand-nephew, Mason; and grand-niece, Lia Holman. She was predeceased by her husband, Ian.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

In keeping with Bonnie’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Interment will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the VON for the wonderful care provided which enabled Bonnie to remain in her home. Memorial donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, VON, or a charity of your choice.

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Howard Dennis Booth

Booth, Howard Dennis – Age 58 of Halifax, passed away suddenly on September 20, 2019. Born in Halifax, he was a son of Rose (Dewolf) Booth and the late Keith Booth.

Howard lived in Dartmouth, Corner Brook, East Margaree, Edmonton and Halifax since the late 1980s. He worked in the after-market car part industry most of his life and recently as purchaser for Auto Choice Auto Parts. Howard will be sadly missed by friends and family. 

Besides his mother, Rose, he is survived by brother, Leo (Barbara); sisters, Anita (Tim McAuley), and Cheryl. Howard was predeceased by his father, Keith; and brother, Keith in infancy.

Funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 15 in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Middle Musquodoboit, with Father Michael Walsh officiating. Reception to follow downstairs in the church hall.

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Morley Ray Dean

Dean, Morley Ray – Age 64, of Upper Musquodoboit, passed away October 6, 2019. Born in Middle Musquodoboit, he was a son of Muriel Dean and the late Clyde Dean.

Besides his mother, he is survived by siblings, Milton (Nora), Rebekah (Tom), Mary (Mike), Douglas (Wendy), Garth (Lisa), Layton; six nieces and one nephew.

Cremation has taken place. In keeping with Morley’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Richard Wayne Higgins

Higgins, Richard Wayne – of Wittenburg, passed away on October 1, 2019, surrounded by his family, after a hard-fought battle with lymphoma. Born in Springhill, he was a son of the late Vera (Smith) and Carl Higgins.

He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Barnhill; son, Christopher and daughter-in-law, Zoë; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Olivia, Harper and Lucas, who were the lights of his life. Richard is also survived by sisters, Linda (Edgar), Donna (Donny), Carla (Bill), Gloria (Murray), Sheila (Dale), Darlene (Robert); brothers, Reg, Timmy (Ellen), John; many nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, Joan Barnhill. He was predeceased by sisters, Dixie, Deborah; brothers, Allison, Darrell.

Richard started working at an early age and made the people he worked with family. He worked in the woods, drove trucks and heavy equipment, as well as building greenhouses. He was an extremely giving man and if he saw a need he tried to fill it. During his time with EMO ground search and rescue he was involved in many missing persons searches as well as the recovery search for Flight 111. Richard enjoyed supporting Christopher in every sport and continued this summer with all three grandchildren in soccer. He also enjoyed adventures on any back road in Colchester and Antigonish counties with family and friends.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Richard will be missed but following his wishes there will be no funeral service. Donations may be made in his memory to Wittenburg Baptist Church or SPCA.

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Neva Mae (Bowser) Baker

Baker (Bowser), Neva Mae – Age 90 of West Jeddore, passed away peacefully October 1, 2019, with her daughters by her side. She was a daughter of the late Roy and Hazel Bowser of Ostrea Lake, where she grew up.

Neva worked as an in-home caregiver until her marriage to Warren in 1954, at which time she became a full-time mother, wife, and devoted partner in their commercial fishing business. They were married for 54 years until Warren's passing in 2007.

Neva is survived by her daughters, Wanda (Mark Latter), Shelley (Stephen Hutt); grandchildren, Billyjoe, April, Alex (Lacey), Andrew; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Cameron, Oliver; brother, Edison (Lorraine); sister, Eileen (Douglas). She was predeceased by sisters, Glendora, Peggy; brothers, Ogle and Glen. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy; she had so much love for each of them, along with her many nieces and nephews.

Neva leaves behind a great legacy of kindness and thoughtfulness. All her caring ways and giving of herself to make life easier for someone else were always her way. Her many friends will miss her and the apple pies! Being the oldest of seven children she took on many responsibilities at an early age, with the passing of her parents.  This wonderful woman leaves an emptiness in us; we will miss you, Mom, Nana, great Nana, sister and friend. At the next roast goose dinner we will toast you and Dad, and for many years to come. Your loving family thanks you.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 12 in St. George's Anglican Cemetery, 1798 Ostrea Lake Rd. Reception will follow in St. James Anglican Church hall, 66 Dolby Hill Rd., Head Jeddore. Memorial donations may be made to Twin Oaks/Birches Health Care Charitable Foundation.

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Paul Robert Ferguson

Ferguson, Paul Robert – Age 61 of Valley, went home to be with the Lord September 29, 2019, departing from Colchester East Hants Health Centre with his loving wife at his side. Born and raised in Saint John, N.B., he was a son of Robert and the late Phyllis (Dickison) Ferguson.

Paul was a graduate of Simonds High School in Saint John, Atlantic Baptist College (Crandall University) and Acadia University, where he met the love of his life, Penny. They were married for 39 years. He spent most of his working career at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, retiring after 31 years of service. Paul provided pulpit supply to area churches, most notably Debert Baptist Church.

Passionate about Southern gospel music, he sang with The Lamb’s Men and later with Penny, as Through His Grace. He wrote many of the melodies to gospel songs and a Christmas cantata she wrote. They sang together in local nursing homes, gospel coffee houses, churches, and led worship music at Nuttby Baptist Church bi-weekly. Paul loved the Lord and sharing the message of Christ, the cross and the blood. He was an adherent of Crossroads Baptist Church. He was a compassionate man whose sense of humour endured to the end, causing him to add to this obituary, “He was once a ruggedly handsome man, but you’d never know it to look at him now.”

Paul loved to travel and he, Penny and Joel toured the Atlantic Provinces, Florida, and Europe and to the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.

He is survived by his wife, Penny; their son, Joel of Montreal/Winnipeg (fiancée Anne Wyman); his father, Robert of Saint John; his brother, Mark (Margaret LeBlanc) of Saint John; and nieces, Heather Button (Shane) and Lisa Ferguson (Andrew Brown). He was predeceased by his mother, Phyllis Ferguson. He was so grateful for the love, acceptance and support of Penny’s new-found family.

Cremation has taken place. We will celebrate Paul home to heaven with visitation Friday, October 4 from 12:30-2:15 p.m., and funeral service at 2:30 p.m., both in Crossroads Baptist Church, 14 Old Pictou Rd., Valley, with Pastor Caleb Kelly officiating. Family flowers only. Donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Health Centre Foundation or the building funds of Nuttby Baptist Church or Crossroads Baptist Church. Reception will follow in the church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Wanda Muriel Manuel

Manuel, Wanda Muriel – Age 64, of Musquodoboit Harbour, passed away September 26, 2019, in the VG Site, QEII following a lengthy battle with cancer. Born in Musquodoboit Harbour, she was a daughter of the late Alfred and Muriel (Harvey) Stevens.

Her life was dedicated to being a proud mother and a true friend to all who were blessed to know her. She enjoyed painting, being out in nature and loved animals.

She will be sadly missed by husband, Donald; son, Donnie; brother, Karl; special aunt, Una Beck. She was predeceased by son, Dennis.

In keeping with Wanda’s wishes there will be no visitation or funeral service. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Douglas Edward Roberts

Roberts, Douglas Edward – Age 87 of New Glasgow, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2019 in Aberdeen Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Glace Bay, he was a son of the late William and Lillian (Hodges) Roberts.

Doug was a Korean War Veteran who served in Korea, Germany and Japan. He was a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 34. Much of his career was spent in public service, mainly in economic development and adult education. Doug was proud to have participated in the Antigonish Movement and was a founding member of Kinsman Club in Sydney Mines. He was an avid bridge player and achieved his goal of becoming a Life Master.

Surviving are his loving wife of 61 years, Joan (Cunningham); children, Doug (Phyllis) and family; Dawn (Gerald) McLean; Russell; Paula Roberts (Bob Hunt) and family; grandchildren, Rochelle, Blake, Shantelle, Kara, Nicole; great-grandchildren, Bella, Cody, Ewan, Riley; brother, Brian (Bunny); sister, Iris (Leo McNamara); sister-in-law, Mary; many nieces and nephews; his bridge family at the Stellarton Bridge Club. He was predeceased by brothers, Louis (Phyllis), William; sister, Lorraine (Conrad) Bonhomme.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.  In honour of his wishes, his family will celebrate his life privately. Memorial donations may be made to Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Many thanks to the doctors, nurses, staff, caregivers and volunteers of Aberdeen Hospital for the wonderful care given to Doug and family. Also thank you for the assistance from Veterans Affairs Canada support workers and VON.

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Florence Shirley Walker

Walker, Florence Shirley – It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Florence Walker, age 90, on September 24, 2019, passing from this world to the next, in Veteran’s Memorial Hospital, wrapped in the arms of her loving family. Florence was born in Riversdale, Colchester Co., the seventh of nine children of the late Edwin and Anna (McCabe) Mowatt.

Florence is survived by her sons, Dale (Pearl), Royce (Donna), both of Cole Harbour; her sister, Joyce Wright, Ajax, Ont.; and many nieces and nephews. Florence had tremendous love for her grandchildren, Craig Walker (Michelle), Terri Kaye, Tanya Walker, Alexander Walker, Kelsey Walker, Emma Walker; as well as her great-grandchildren, Kyla, Ava and Austin Kaye, and Lily and Allie Walker. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, William “Bill” Walker; brothers, Ross, Mack, Glen, Ron, Harry; sisters, Helen Hughes and Jessie Landsburg.

Florence and Bill raised their family in Woodlawn, where they had been members of Woodlawn United Church since 1956, and Florence was a Lifetime Member of the UCW. Florence had a deep Christian faith which she lived out through many church activities and community organizations. Florence made many lifelong friends from Teacher’s College and began her teaching career in small rural schools. When she went to Eastern Passage to teach she met Bill, the love of her life. After raising her family she returned to substitute teaching in the 1970’s. She often would meet former students who had a “Miss Mowatt” story to tell.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Monday, 7-9 p.m., and a celebration of Florence’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 1st at 11 a.m., both in Woodlawn United Church, Dartmouth,  with Rev. Phillip Kennedy officiating. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Florence may be made to Woodlawn United Church, Diabetes Canada or a charity of your choice.

Many thanks to the nurses and staff on 3 West at Camp Hill for your care and kindness.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Curtis Victor Crawford

Crawford, Curtis Victor – Age 62 of Truro. It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Curtis on September 19, 2019 in Colchester East Hants Health Center, Truro.

Curtis is survived by his long-time partner, Sally Anne Allen; daughter, Brittany (Kerby Wallace); son, Jeremy (Aimee); grandchildren, Ashlyn and Hayden; as well as uncles, Roy and Ernie; aunt, Edna. Curtis will also be missed dearly by Sally Anne's children and grandchildren.

A long-time employee of Harris Home Hardware, Curtis was an avid hockey fan, never really missing a game especially if his beloved Boston Bruins were playing.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A celebration of life will be held in the family home on Saturday, September 28, from 2-4 p.m.

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Darryl Roderick "Roddy" Prest

Prest, Darryl Roderick “Roddy” – 70 of Upper Stewiacke, passed away in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, on Sunday, September 15, 2019, with his wife, Julia by his side. Born in Truro, he was the son of the late Audrey (Dean) Prest-Holman and Homer Prest of Upper Stewiacke.

Before retiring in 2008, Rod had been employed for 26 years with Nova Scotia Power Corporation, as a heavy duty mechanic. Prior to this he was the heavy duty mechanic foreman at the Gays River Lead and Zinc Mine. Rod always had a passion for collecting antique cars and trucks, which included a 2- door Bel-aire hard top, diesel or gas Chevettes, a fire truck, a long-nose highway tractor, and a corvette. Always looking for great deals on Saturns, which were “worthy made cars”. He was most passionate about his Harley- Fat Boy motorcycle, “his de-stressor”! Rod was a diehard Chevy guy and enjoyed modifying the engines on many of his “toys” especially his prized diesel Chevettes. He loved his Corvette and leaves mixed memories to those who failed to outdo his famous quarter-mile strip of rubber that brought many people looking for the house fire from all the smoke. Rod was a very loving, compassionate and generous husband, who extended these attributes to many friends, family and those in the community.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Julia; stepdaughters, Laura (Alden) Holtan, South Brookfield; Andrea (Tanner) Holtan, Crowes Mills Road; grandchildren, Jackson, Rowan, Violet; brother, Bob (C.J); sister-in-law, Debbie; many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by nephew, Robert; brother, Cecil.

Visitation will be 1:00-1:45 p.m. on Monday September 23 in Upper Stewiacke Fire Hall, followed by service at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Scott Penner officiating. A private graveside committal will be held in Riverside Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Doris "Dorie" Mabel Victoria Andrews

Andrews, Doris Mabel Victoria “Dorie” – Age 87, of Stewiacke passed away peacefully at home on September 18, 2019. Born in Dartmouth, she was the eldest child of the late Cpt. Lester and Vera (Coombs) Hickey.

Surviving are daughter, Janice (Donald) Landry, stepchildren, Marty (late Sheila) Andrews, Susan (Doug) Watson, Vanda (Gary) McCulloch, Sheila (Jerry) Turple, Marjorie (Vince) Smith; fifteen grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren; brother, Tom (Joanne) Hickey; sister, Linda Capstick. She was predeceased by sister, Lizelle; first husband, Gordon “Bud” Wright (1966); second husband, Doug Andrews (2004).

Cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held in Pine Grove Cemetery, Stewiacke East. Memorial donations may be made to a local SPCA or Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission. Special thanks to the wonderful caregivers for the compassionate care our mother received. Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Jean Marie DeWolfe

DeWolfe, Jean Marie – Age 76, of Upper Nine Mile River, passed away September 16, 2019, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in Fredericton, she was a daughter of the late Raymond and Helen (Sharp) Wetmore.

Jean bred and exhibited American Cocker Spaniels for nearly 60 years. She proudly owned and operated Shady Hill Kennels, one of the oldest and longest continuing American Cocker Spaniel kennels in Canada. She served the community as public health nurse for Nova Scotia Department of Health from 1971-1997.

Surviving are son, Jeremy (Tara); stepson, Clyde (Jennifer); grandchildren, Joseph, Cody, Leah, Parker, Gavin; sister, Annette (Byron); brother, Jack (Marg). She was predeceased by husband, Edward; sister, Mary; brother, Dave.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 28 in West Gore Church of Christ, 1000 Hwy. 2, with Rev. Angus MacDonald officiating. A reception will follow in West Gore Fire Hall. Private family burial will be in West Gore Cemetery. Memorial donations in Jean’s honour may be made to American Spaniel Club Foundation Cataract Research Project: www.asc-f.org

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Muriel (Dickie) McCurdy

McCurdy (Dickie), Muriel – of Meaghers Grant, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2019 at the age of 99 in The Birches Nursing Home, Musquodoboit Harbour. Born in Ontario, she was the eldest daughter of Byron and Mary (Brown) Myers.

The family moved to Head of Jeddore when Muriel was a young girl. Muriel graduated from Teachers College in Truro and taught school for a few years. She married her first husband, Ivan Dickie, and moved to Meaghers Grant where she raised her family and was a bookkeeper for the family sawmill business. She also sold World Book for many years. Muriel was very active in her community, volunteering as church organist and Sunday school teacher, and putting her time and efforts toward getting the community hall for Meaghers Grant. Several years after Ivan’s passing, it was wonderful that Muriel and Bill met at square dancing. In 1988, Muriel and Bill were married. She and Bill enjoyed dancing and attending many dances, even into their later years.

Muriel was proud of her family. She is survived by her husband, Bill; sons, Ronald (Wanda), Leonard (Geraldine); daughter, Marina; sister, Bernice (Darrell); grandchildren, John, Heather, Philip, Jeffrey, Janice, David and Kristopher; stepchildren, Irvin (Darlene), Brian (Jeannie), Darrell (Krista), Valerie (Philip), Blaine (Debbie), Cheryl (John); step-grandchildren, Wayne, Paula, Janice, Julie, Daralyn, Andrea, Stephen, Tony, Michelle, Jeremy, Amanda and Alex; as well as several great-grandchildren. Besides Ivan and her parents, Muriel was predeceased by her daughter, Marian; brothers, John and Orland.

The family extends thanks to the staff of The Birches Nursing Home for their compassionate care during her stay there.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Muriel’s life will be held on Friday, September 20 at 2 p.m. in St. James United Church, Meaghers Grant, with student minister Calvin Burt officiating. A reception will follow in the community hall. Family flowers only. Donations in Muriel’s memory may be made to Meaghers Grant Cemetery Fund or a charity of choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Thomas Michael Chmiel, Jr.

Chmiel, Thomas Michael, Jr. – Age 76 of Masstown and formerly of Sydney, passed away September 7, 2019 at home. He was a son of Charlotte Chmiel, Truro, and the late Thomas Chmiel, Sr.

Surviving are his wife of 55 years, the former Lois Gallagher; brother, Donnie (Leslie) of Calgary; sons, Michael (Joanne) of Dartmouth, Jim of St. John’s; daughters, Tonya (Kevin) Dort of Masstown, Patty (Darin) Whitney of Merigomish; special aunts, Helen Maclean and Betty Kerr. Dad was gifted with grandchildren, Andrea, Kelsey, Katrina, Stephen, Michael, Gregory, Luke and Jordan; great-grandchildren, Owen, Haley, Ellis, Bentley, Kloie, and Layla; extended grandchildren, Rachelle, Sabrina, Samantha, Chelsey.

He was known as Tommy to his parents, Butch to his family, Hubs to Mom, Dad to his children, Gigi to his grandchildren, Mr. C. to his students, and Tom to his friends.

Dad was a graduate of St. FX and his teaching career brought him to Coxheath, Pugwash, Digby and Canso before retiring at the age of 52 and settling in Masstown. Dad felt alive on the sea and found his greatest pleasures tuna fishing, fly fishing, actually fishing of any kind, which took him as far as Scotland, and his camp. He loved spending time at the trailer in Pictou and his walks around the campground to chat with everyone. He loved meeting new people. Riding his motorbike and attending the Wharf Rat Rally were highlights. Wood working in his shed was his sanctuary. He would make us lazy Susans, patio chairs, and recently he had started making urns. He loved to putter and help with everything.

Dad was very social, spending his days talking with his neighbors, and his nights on the phone. He loved to hear about your day, how you were and truly worried for you, or celebrated with you. In his younger years he skydived, scuba dived, and played hockey. Dad was fortunate to spend many winters in his Florida home with Mom, and loved his Florida friends. During his teaching days his students knew him for his funky ties which he replaced in retirement with his bright Hawaiian shirts. As someone once said, “Tom never met a stranger”. His outgoing and jolly personality was enjoyed by many, and when you became his friend, you were a friend for life.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 21 in Royal Canadian Legion Branch 106, 1252 Masstown Rd., Debert, with long-time family friend Deacon Wilfred Boudreau officiating. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers or donations, in honor of Dad, please do something special with your loved ones or complete an item on your bucket list. Dad lived his life to the fullest and was recently quoted telling a friend that he had completed his bucket list.

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