Gary McDowell

McDowell, Gary - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gary McDowell, who left us on June 8, 2024, at the age of 77. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary was born in Enfield to the late John and Betty McDowell.

For 50 years, Gary worked as a dedicated heavy equipment operator, earning respect in the construction community. Outside of work he enjoyed his time at the camp, fishing and playing cards with friends. He was an avid NASCAR fan, rarely missing a Sunday race with the company of his devoted cat, Molly by his side. During the summer months, Gary could often be found tending to his vegetable garden, a hobby that brought him great satisfaction.

Gary was predeceased by his brother, Andrew; his sisters, Helen and Mary; and his daughter, Charmaine. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his children, Mark, Cindy (Kendall), Cathy, and Steven; his siblings, Janie (Tom) and Peter; grandchildren, Briana (James), Erin (Nick), Zach (Erin), Thane (Ashley); and great-grandchildren, Ethan and Audrey.

Special thank you to all the staff on 4.1; Peter with his special touch and humor and Kim, NP with PATH, with her heartfelt compassion in her care. 

A Celebration of Gary's Life and Legion Service will be held on June 22, 2024, 1-4 in the Enfield Legion Branch 133.

The family requests any donations be made to CCOA (Corridor Community Options for Adults).

Rest in peace, Gary, we know you are in heaven, we sure hope they are serving Keith’s!

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Joan MacDonald Hanes

Hanes, Joan MacDonald - Age 81, of Truro, passed away on June 6, 2024, surrounded by loved ones, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro.

Born in Truro, she was a daughter of the late Roy Taggart and Lola (MacDonald) (Taggart) Ogden.

Joan was an elementary school teacher for 31 years. She graduated from the Nova Scotia

Teachers’ College and began her teaching career at the Caldwell Road Elementary School in Cole Harbour. Most of her teaching career, 27 years, was spent at the North River Elementary School just outside of Truro. Joan was a born teacher and continued to tutor children following her retirement. Joan loved children and she remembered most, if not all, the names of “her kids” over the years.

In addition to her parents Joan was predeceased by her husband, Norman Hanes; her stepfather, Tom Ogden; her sister, Judy English; her brothers-in-law, Jack Davy and Tom English; and her sister-in-law, Sandra Taggart.

Joan is survived by her children, Scott (Buffie) Hanes and Mary (Tobias) Spears; grandchildren, Kehisha, Malcolm, Ryan, William; siblings, Lorraine Davy, Ken (Carol) Taggart, Roy Taggart and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

As per Joan’s wishes, there will be no funeral but a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with more details to follow.

Special thanks to the nurses and doctors in the Emergency Department and in the palliative care unit for the exceptional care given to Joan, and especially Trudie, RN, who was with us when we said goodbye. Also special thanks to Father Jim who led us in prayer after Joan’s passing.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Helen Jean (Dahr) Harnish

Harnish (Dahr), Helen Jean - A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 10 in Hillcrest Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. David LeBlanc officiating.

Hazel "Nina" Gallant

Gallant, Hazel “Nina” - Hazel Gallant, lovingly known as 'Nanny', 'Nina', and 'Mudder' passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024, at the age of 95 surrounded by loved ones.

She was born in Bay de l'Eau, Newfoundland to Edward and Jessie Kearley.

As the last remaining Kearley sibling, Nina will be welcomed in Heaven with open arms by her brothers and sisters, Joseph, Tom, Annie, Rose, Marjorie, Alva and Effie. Nina was also predeceased by her children, Edward, Rick, Brenda, Florence, and Cecelia.

She is survived by her children, Gordon Barnes, PEI; Jessie (Kevin) Marriott, Nova Scotia; George (Sylvie) Barnes, Quebec; Millie (Randy) Cottrell, Ontario; Darlene (Rick) Pye, Nova Scotia; Sharon (Paul) Phillips, Cape Breton; and Kelly (Sharon) Brindle, Nova Scotia. She was also a beloved grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother to many across Canada.

Nina found joy in spending time with her large family, playing cards well into the night (as long as she wasn't losing and you agreed to play by her rules), and enjoying a delicious French Vanilla Coffee from Tim Hortons. Her love for her family was evident early on as she was forced to make decisions that would alter the journey of many of her children. She lived with the regret of these decisions until the very end.

She was a lady who had the strength of four lumberjacks and was known for her remarkable hands, which she used to make homemade bread for many years. There was always a pot of tea with bread and molasses for those visitors who dropped in unannounced to have a chat.

Growing up in Newfoundland, Nina developed a deep love for seafood, relishing anything that came from the sea. The best pot of fish and potatoes, Cod's heads stew or a pan of salt cod and pork scraps could be served up at a moment's notice. One of her favorite places in the world was Grand Le Pierre, where she cherished spending time with her sisters and being surrounded by family and friends. A quick rip "across the gut" or "Up Yonder” to Bay de l'Eau in a boat put the biggest smile on her beautiful face and she talked about these adventures on a regular basis and once you got her talking, she could go on forever!

Nina shared a beautiful life with her spouse, Puppa "Charlie" who passed away in 2008 but she was always happy to recount the many memories she made with Charlie. From hunting caribou in the North to digging clams on a backroad beach in PEI, these two were never far apart from each other. She made many friends over her 95 years and the loss of this light will be felt far and wide especially by her special friend, Sue from Glen Haven.

Those who knew Nina will remember her profound love, which was felt to the core by anyone fortunate enough to be loved by her. When she told you she loved you, she meant it and was quick to say to you, "And don't you forget it."

Nina will be dearly missed and forever remembered for the love and joy she brought to everyone she encountered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in July. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to River Glen at Glen Haven Manor in New Glasgow.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

W. Ann Stewart

Stewart, W. Ann – Age 62, of Stewiacke and formerly of Sackville, passed away June 2, 2024 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro surrounded by family.

Born in New Glasgow, she was the daughter of the late Brian and Phyllis (MacNaughton) Phelan.

Ann loved to travel and was the best Mama Bear to her family. She received her early childhood education degree from Nova Scotia Teachers College in Truro. Ann was the beloved Director of First Friends Daycare. Her passing leaves a huge void in the Daycare family and beyond. She was compassionate, funny, thoughtful, giving, and very dedicated to her career. Her legacy will live on in the daycare she helped to build throughout her 35 years there, 31 of which she was the director where she created an atmosphere of love and acceptance for all.

She will always be loved and missed by husband, Eric; daughter, Christina (Tyson); son, Benjamin (Samantha); stepchildren, Shelley (Darryl), Trish (Craig), Al (Cindy); seven grandchildren; nine step-grandchildren; brothers, Patrick, Brian (Cathy), Mark (Deanna); several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, June 10 in Beaver Bank Kinsac Community Centre, 6 – 8 p.m.

Interment will be at a later date in Hillcrest Cemetery, Upper Musquodoboit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Diabetes Canada would be appreciated.

I’ll love you forever

I’ll like you for always

As long as I’m living,

My Mommy you will be.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Angela Louise (Fultz) Daniels

Daniels (Fultz), Angela Louise - It is with heavy hearts that we, the family of Angela Louise (Fultz) Daniels announce her passing on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at the age of 68, losing her battle against cancer in the Halifax Infirmary, with her daughter, Carrie and family by her side.

Born in Halifax, she was a daughter of the late Cyril and Margaret (Gallant) Fultz.

Angela was a loving mother, proud grandmother, sister and friend to many. She lived in downtown Dartmouth for most of her life. She enjoyed sitting back with a few cold ones, loved music and her family and friends. She never held back and always spoke her mind.

She will always be loved and missed by her children, Carrie Irving (Matt), Mandy Daniels, Andrew Daniels; sisters, Syliva Cross, Margo Maloney; brother, John “Butch” Barker (Ginny); grandchildren, Kandace (Cory), Emily (Keilin), Brandon, Zachary, Ashton, Amber, Aaron, Mya, Aaliyah; great-grandchildren, Kaylea, Skylar, and Summer; niece, Malinda Cross along with many more nieces and nephews. She will forever be in our hearts.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings, Sharon Cole and Karl Fultz

Cremation has taken place.

Memorial donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. More details will follow.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Robert "Bob" McPhee

McPhee, Robert “Bob” - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” McPhee, age 94, on May 29, 2024. Born in 1929 in West Gore, Bob was a son of Hope and Roberta, and one of nine siblings.

Beginning in the late 1940s, Bob worked for approximately ten years constructing houses in the Port Wallace and Dartmouth area, including the original Mic Mac Tavern. For the next 25 years, he worked at Purdy Brothers as a carpenter and later as a foreman. Following his time at Purdy Brothers, Bob was employed by Veinot Construction until his retirement. However, this retirement lasted only six weeks as he did not enjoy the downtime and returned to work at the dockyard. After another unsuccessful attempt at retiring, Bob ended up doing handyman and carpentry work for Sullivan Apartments until he finally decided he was ready. Even during retirement, Bob enjoyed doing odd jobs around the house. He undertook a major project that continued for many years, stubbornly digging out the cellar by hand through dirt and rock to create an immaculate 24x10 workspace with headroom for tinkering. He was proud of his house renovations and called East Petpeswick his home for over 20 years.

Bob loved music; he played the piano and guitar and was an avid fiddle player at local dances until he married. In his later years, he enjoyed listening to old-time music and dancing and was a regular at dances, fiddle competitions, and jamborees throughout the Maritimes with his partner, Glenda. He took great pleasure in talking with family, friends, and his morning coffee group at Tim Hortons. Bob’s storytelling and handiness will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his children, Mike (Nancy), Danny (Darlene), and Velvet; his life partner, Glenda Jennings; her children, Darlene, Cheryl, Danny, and Anne; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Karl, Anna, John (Ruby), and Ross Graves (foster brother).

Bob was predeceased by his wife, Marjorie (Bernard); children, Robert (infant), Christopher, Peter (Corrina), Wendy Hawboldt (Kip) and Carol (Kris Sonnichsen); and siblings, Helen, Eddie, Joan, William, and Rosalie.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Petpeswick Yacht Club, 434 East Petpeswick Road, on Saturday, June 8, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

Donations may be made to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Veldena Kent Dykeman

Dykeman, Veldena Kent – age 60, of Truro, passed away May 28, 2024 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro.

Born in Middle Musquodoboit, she was a daughter of the late Lawrence “Lonnie” and Victoria (Fleming) Dykeman.

Veldena was well known as a jokester who didn’t mind telling you what she thought with her sassy tongue. She enjoyed daytime soaps, a good bottle of Pepsi, knitting and playing with her grandchildren.

She will always be loved and missed by daughter, Ashley (Terry); son, Matthew; grandchildren, Cassie and Declan; sisters, Violet (Timmy), Donna, Vicky; brothers, Tommy (Bonnie), Curtis (Wilma), Lonnie (Cel); sister-in-law, Linda; many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by brother, Roderick.

Cremation has taken place.

A graveside service will be held on Friday at 1:30 in Hillcrest Cemetery, Upper Musquodoboit.

Memorial donations may be made to Maggie’s Place, Truro. 

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Ronald Dwight Russell

Russell, Ronald Dwight - It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Ronald Dwight Russell from Lawrencetown, on May 28, 2024 at the age of 68. In his peaceful rest, Ron reunites with his beloved wife, Janice, who was his cherished companion in life. Together, they now watch over their treasured family, the center of their world.

Ron was predeceased by his sisters, Donna and Patricia; as well as his brother, Donald. He is survived by his daughters, Amanda (Matthew) and Ashley (Matthew); along with his beloved grandchildren, Emily, Weston, Hunter and Jace. He is also survived by his sisters, Gracie, Linda, Sandra (Angus); and brothers, Wayne (Kim), and Paul (Evie).

A Celebration of Ron's Life is scheduled for June 30th from 2-4 pm in 6405 Hwy 207, Grand Desert.

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

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Ada Good Swift

Swift, Ada Good - Age 95 of Stewiacke passed away peacefully in Colchester East Hants Health Centre on May 27, 2024. Born in Montreal, Ada was a daughter of the late James and Margaret Glencross. 

As a young woman she bravely set off on her own to find work in London, England where she worked as a bank teller until she met and married the love of her life, Kenneth Swift. The newlyweds then returned to Montreal where they raised their family until moving to Nova Scotia in 1970.

After settling in Stewiacke, she became a member of various groups and organizations over the years, Cobequid Twirlers Square Dance club, Willowbend Seniors Club and the Stewiacke Garden Club to name a few. In her spare time, she also enjoyed knitting, dancing, gardening, Halloween and most especially hugs.

Ada is survived by her daughter, Lynn Newton (Jimmy) of Truro; her granddaughter, Melissa Logan (Layton) of Fall River; as well as her sister, Eileen Kersulis of Brantford, ON; sister in-law, Gillian Swift of High Wycombe, England. She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Kenneth Swift; son, Eric Swift; step-mother, Ellen Glencross; sister, Betty Gilmour; brothers-in-law, Edward Kersulis, Gordon Gilmour and Roger Swift.

Cremation has taken place.

Private family service to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA or the Canadian Cancer Society.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Ronald "Ron" Robert Everitt

Everitt, Ronald “Ron” Robert - 70 years of age, passed away on Monday, May 27, 2024. Born in Chatham, Ontario, he was a son of Bryon Pearson Everitt and Jane Katherine (Wildgen) Everitt.

Ron was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 42 years, Deborah (Jeffers); his children, Jessica and Marc; his beloved granddaughter, Claire; his Jeffers family and numerous friends worldwide.

Most of his life, Ron was an adventurous soul who loved to travel and meet new people. He lived in many different places, including Grand Cache, Alberta, Yarmouth and Truro. Initially working at McIntyre Mines, Alberta, Ron later proudly attended the Centre of Geographic Sciences. He became a surveyor which allowed him to travel the world to such interesting places as Scotland, Sable Island and Africa. As much as he loved his family and his work; Ron also found time to enjoy his favourite pastimes of golf and rooting for the Maple Leafs hockey team. Adept at cheering on the underdogs and putting others first, Ron demonstrated a sense of humour, kindness, and character that will be greatly missed.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Following the cremation, a graveside service will be held in Bible Hill Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Ron may be made to your local SPCA.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Valerie Helen Gilby

Gilby, Valerie Helen – age 75, of Elmsdale, passed away May 25, 2024 in Oakwood Terrace, Dartmouth.

Born in Stewiacke, she was a daughter of the late Reginald and Hazel (Kennedy) Smith.

The highlights of her life were being a loving partner, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed the race horses and work horses, spending many hours tending and training them. She worked many years for Newfoundland Capital Corporation, a job she was passionate about and with coworkers who were like family to her.

She will always be loved and missed by husband, Peter; sons, Matthew (Catherine), Andrew (Julie); grandchildren, Gage, Grace, Emma, Lucas; siblings, Steven, Cynthia, Tony, Randy and Vicki.

Cremation has taken place.

The family will meet friends for a time of fellowship on Thursday, 2 – 4 p.m. in Riverview United Church, Elmsdale.

Memorial donations to Caring and Sharing Food Bank (caringandsharinghants@gmail.com) would be appreciated.

Many thanks to the staff of Oakwood Terrace for the wonderful care given to Valerie while she was a resident there.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Evelyn Bernadette (Smith) White

White (Smith), Evelyn Bernadette - It is with great sadness that we, the family of Evelyn Bernadette (Smith) White announce her passing on Tuesday May 21, 2024 at the age of 82 in Dartmouth General Hospital, with her beloved great niece, Courtney Sutherland at her side.

Born and brought up on Albro Lake Road, Dartmouth, she was a daughter of the late William John and Brenda (Hartry) Smith.

Mom rnet the love of her life, Randall “Randy” White, married and had two sons. Shortly after the birth of their oldest son, they moved to Port Hardy, BC for work. They resided there for over 30 years.

After the passing of her husband, Randy, Mom retired from Canada Post and returned horne to Nova Scotia. Mom loved to dance and so did her partner, Warren and they

frequently graced the dance floors of most local dance halls, and as they say "tore up the rug".

Evelyn is survived by sons, Eugene, Mooseland and Tracey, Hinton, AB; grandsons, Randy and Nathan, Hinton, AB; brothers, Howard, Lloyd (Nan), Gregory; and

partner, Warren Erskine, all of Nova Scotia.

Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by five brothers and three sisters.

Special thank you to management and residents of Oakwood Court, Dartmouth where she resided until her passing.

Also, a special thank you to Doctors, Nurses and staff of Dartmouth General Hospital for all the care, love and support during her extended stay at the hospital, especially the Nurses and staff on 3 West.

As per Evelyn's request there will be no service.

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

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Shirley Lucille (Tonks) Roche

Roche (Tonks), Shirley Lucille – Age 76, passed away May 18, 2024 in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital.

Born in Ingersoll, ON, she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Rita Tonks.

Shirley enjoyed needlepoint, quilt making, country life and her cat, Missy.

She grew up in Eastern Passage and was a member of Mic Mac Boat Club, attending many dances. In her adult years, she worked for Hermes Electronics.

Shirley is survived by her brothers, Thomas, Upper Musquodoboit; and Michael (Linda), Fredericton.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth George Roche (2005); brother, Bill; and sister, Judyth O’Rouke.

Cremation has taken place.

At Shirley’s request there will be no funeral or Celebration of Life. Interment will be at a later date.

Thanks to Dr. Lorette and the nursing staff at MVMH for the care provided to Shirley.

Donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Charles Brayden Joyce

Joyce, Charles Brayden – Age 89, of Pleasant Valley, Colchester County, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2024 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro with family by his side.

Born in Truro, he was a son of the late Will and Marion (Stewart) Joyce and raised by his aunt, “Mom Clark”.

Pappie was a truck driver by trade and owner/operator of Joyce and Atkinson Transport Ltd. His real passion was his hobby farm. He was an avid supporter of 4H. He attended every Nova Scotia Provincial 4H Show since it began. If there was a livestock show, Pappie was there. Always on the road, he was well-known for dropping in unannounced and staying for a visit.  

He will always be loved and missed by his wife, Gloria, the love of his life; children, Terri (Rick), Smith (Evelyn), Janice (Bruce), Carla (Danny), Crystal (Ron); honorary daughter, Cathy; grandchildren, Paige (Fabian), Corey (Chantel), Nicole, Shaun (Pamela), Jennifer, Alexis, Carlos, Sheamus, Cody, Aaron (Lexie), Mitchel, Mary (Albert), Colby (Jill Ann), Kylynne (Josh), James; great-grandchildren, Janessa, Kyleah, Ashyah, Levayah, Laryah (Ty), Sophia, Alexander, Cali, Robert, AJ, Ella ; siblings, Joan, Jean, Anne, Gary.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by Mom and Dad Clark; and sister, Shirley.

Cremation has taken place.

Funeral visitation will be Monday, 1 – 1:45 p.m. followed by funeral service at 2, both in Knox United Church, Brookfield with Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. A reception will follow in the church hall. Livestreaming is available at: Facebook.com/knoxunitedbrookfield

Family flowers only.

Memorial donations may be made to Colchester East Hants VON.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Gordon Kenneth Bonang

Bonang, Gordon Kenneth – age 76, passed away surrounded by loving family on May 15, 2024 in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital, Musquodoboit Harbour.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Dororthy; and brother, Percey. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Theresa Bonang; children, Cass (Lorna) and Joy (Russell); grandchildren, Riley, Mia, Izzy; and, siblings Katherine, Ralph, Roy, Donald, Shirley, Jessie, Jean, and Ronnie.

Born in his homestead in West Chezzetcook, his entrepreneurial spirit started young. At the age of 6 or 7 he went selling fruits, vegetables & fish with his father, through the communities of Preston and beyond. This led him to build strong, everlasting friendships with the Diggs and Thomas families and many other families.

He left home at the age of 14 with only a grade four education ready to pursue work in Ontario to help provide for his family back home. After coming home at 18 to work and spend time with his family for a few years, he went to work up North in Yellowknife. When his mother called him and asked him to buy the house next door, it led to Gordy eventually coming home to raise his family by his beloved brook. He was a hard-working fisherman of over 60 years that never slept when the gaspereau were running.

Gordy was well known around the community for lending a helping hand. He was a thoughtful, generous, Chezzetcooker who knew how to put a smile on anyone’s face. When he wasn’t coming home with a CN railcar of clothes or a truckload of animals, he was in front of the TV listening to the weather channel. He had a special love for clam digging and often referred to them as gold and without them his family would not have survived.

A Celebration of Life will be held in July. More details to follow at a later date.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Harold Roy Stevens

Stevens, Harold Roy – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, stepfather, and grampy, Harold Roy Stevens of Lantz. Harold’s big and loving heart slowed peacefully to a stop on May 14, 2024 after 81 years.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Lola, the love of his life; and by her sons — whom he loved as his own — Kevin (Bonita) King, River Bourgeois; and Paul (Denise) King, Lantz. He will also be missed by the people who called him ‘grampy’, Bethany (Dan), Daniel, Haley, Austin, and Ben. His absence will be deeply felt by his sister, Donna Mae (Reg) Hingley, Truro; and his Cape Breton family; as well as by Jeremy Carter. He will be especially missed by Mellow, his canine companion. Harold was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Helen (Keyes) Stevens and by his stepson, David King.

Harold was born and raised in Lantz, and completed his training as an electrical construction contractor with his Red Seal in 1964. He started working for Public Works Canada in 1967. In the final years of his career, he served as Building Manager for the “H” Division and the Forensic Laboratory of the RCMP in Halifax.

Harold liked to tinker in his garage, hunt, dance with Lola, hang out with his friends at Tim’s and tell stories — with no detail left out! Mostly, though, he loved spending time with family in the Lantz home he helped build and in River Bourgeois, Cape Breton.

Harold will be remembered for his generosity and his kindness. He was always willing to lend a hand and help out in whatever way he could, giving his time and his energy to all kinds of people in all kinds of ways.

If you would like to honor his memory, please do something kind for someone else; if you would like to make a donation in his name, please support a charity of your choice.

There will be a Celebration of Harold’s Life at 11 a.m. on May 22nd in St George’s Church, Dutch Settlement, with Rev. Dr. Jane Magrath officiating. The service will be followed by a reception downstairs. 

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Elva May (Glawson) Fraser

Fraser (Glawson), Elva May – A graveside service for family and friends will be held on May 25, 2024 at 1 p.m. in Higginsville Cemetery. A reception will follow at Bicentennial Theatre, Middle Musquodoboit.

Ronald Brian Bellefontaine

Bellefontaine, Ronald Brian – aged 96, of Brookvale, Nova Scotia passed peacefully with family by his side on May 12th, 2024 in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital.

Born in Higginsville, he was a son of the late Angus and Edith (Nelson) Bellefontaine.  Ronnie was predeceased by his wife, Roberta (Higgins) of 71 years; brothers, Elmer and Gordon; sisters, Lucy, Doris, Pauline, Eileen and twin sister, Ruth. 

Ronnie is survived by children, Martha (Calvin) Higgins, Debbie (Darryl) Sutherland, Ronda (Glenn Campbell), Dennis (Cosette Tetrault), and Gwynneth; grandchildren, Mark, Jeff, Jill, Casey, Emma, Lindsey, Derek and Sara; and great-grandchildren Rachel, Jeremy, Isla, Isabella, Rocco, Gia, Dillon and Alexina.  He is also fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbours.

Ronnie was raised in Higginsville and grew up on the farm until he began his career as a welder at Liquid Air in Halifax.  He and Roberta moved back to Higginsville in 1957 to take over the family farm until their retirement.  Dad did not have a high school diploma, but had the mind of an engineer.  His was often heard to jokingly say, “I forgot more than you’ll ever know”. He was a dairy farmer, mechanic, fabricating and welding expert, backhoe operator and woodsman.  He served as a Board member on both the Musquodoboit Valley Co-op and Middle Musquodoboit Agricultural Society.  His many years of service at the Halifax County Exhibition grounds earned him a Fairperson of the Year award.  

We are grateful that Dad was able to remain in his home until his recent admission to hospital.  Special thanks to Homecare Staff and private caregivers Ruth, Donna and Denise; Nurse Practitioner Jillian Noble, Dr. Lorette, and the nursing staff at Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital. 

Donations in memory of Ronnie may be made to the Higginsville Cemetery Society, 1181 Higginsville Road, Brookvale, NS   B0N 1X0

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 24th from 2:30 to 5:30 at the Bicentennial Theatre, Middle Musquodoboit.  A short service will begin at 3:00, followed by an open invitation for others to share their own stories and memories. 

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Muriel Eunice MacLean

MacLean, Muriel Eunice – With great sadness, the children of Muriel MacLean, announce the passing of our dear mother on May 11, 2024 in Dartmouth General Hospital at the age 98. 

Muriel (Whidden) was born in 1926 and raised in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. 

Muriel was predeceased by her husband, James; father, Howard; mother, Winona (Eye); brothers Bruce and Graham; beloved sister Hilda. 

Left to cherish her memories are her children, Barbara (late Chris Hundley), Gordon MacLean, Katherine (Oliver Slauenwhite), Collin (Heather Maclean), Janet (Perry Chippin). Also survived by cherished grandchildren, Sean, Marc, Ian, Nia, Trevor, Poet, Marion, Alice, James, Jamie, Lisa, Kendall and Niall; and 8 treasured great-grandchildren.

She met the love of her life and best friend, James MacLean at Evangeline beach. Their first date was at the dance hall at the beach. That was the beginning of their beautiful life together. In the early years military life meant many moves. Mom always made a lovely welcoming home. She was an exceptional home maker and wonderful cook. 

During her long life, Muriel enjoyed many hobbies and passions. She swam every day for 30 years at the Acadia pool. She sang in choirs for over 75 years. She loved painting and studied Art at Acadia University. She loved canoeing, cross-country skiing and skating with her wonderful husband, Jim. Muriel was an avid bridge player, she played well into her 90s. She was a truly creative person, who loved to sew, knit and crochet. She was a member of the I.O.D.E for most of her life. She loved to shop and always enjoyed a trip to Bangor. Mom always dressed up and was seldom without her signature string of pearls. Music was a mainstay in Mom’s life. She remembered the words to all her favourite songs. She always thought it was the perfect time to sing.

Mom was so full of joy and saw beauty everywhere and often declared “Isn’t this wonderful” and “this is so lovely”.  She left a lasting impression on others with her positive attitude and always made you feel good about yourself. Everyone who met her, loved her. If you have a fond memory of Muriel, and her passion for life, we ask that you sing a song in her memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held May 25, 2-4 p.m., Garden Suite - 1540 Summer Street, Halifax. (Wear your pearls.)

We are so thankful to the wonderful staff at the Dartmouth General hospital. A special thank you to Julia MacLean for her care and compassion.  Thanks to Bev Nicholson at Harris Hall for treating our mom like family.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.