Cox, James “Colin”

Cox, James “Colin” – Age 80, South Branch, passed away December 10, 2015, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in South Branch, he was the son of the late Byron and Marie (Geddes) Cox. Colin successfully ran J. Colin Cox Trucking for 40 years, along with the help of his wife and three sons. He was an active community worker supporting many projects. Colin had been a member of Upper Stewiacke Volunteer Fire Department for 40 years. He was affectionately known as the Mayor of South Branch. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and the trips to his camp with the guys.

Surviving are the love of his life, his wife of 58 years, Frances (Peterson); children, Terry (Wendy), Dale, Laurie “Red” (Louise), all of South Branch; Donna (Mark) MacCallum, Truro; Colleen Johnson, Hilden; grandchildren, Jonathan and Justin Cox, Natalie, Shanda and Katelyn Cox, Michael and Mitchell Campbell, Colton and Devin Cox and Melissa and AJ Johnson; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Ferne McGillivray, South Branch; Karen (Jack) Oldford, Langley, B.C. He was predeceased by brother-in-law, Hughie McGillivray.

A family graveside service will be held on Saturday, at 11 a.m., in South Branch Cemetery, with Rev. Marilyn MacDonald officiating. No flowers by request. If desired, memorial donations may be made to South Branch Cemetery Corporation.

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

Special thanks to Drs. Rowe and Altenkirk, and the nursing staff at Colchester East Hants Health Centre for their excellent care during his final weeks.

This life for me has truly passed

I love you all to the very last

Weep not for me, but courage take

And love one another for my sake.

Stewart, Leslie Frederick “Les”

Stewart, Leslie Frederick “Les” – Passed away at home in Halifax on December 7, 2015, at the age of 84. He lived a very joyful life, touching many people with his kindness, smile, and gentle humour. Born in Elmsvale, Musquodoboit, Les was the youngest child of Edmond Arnold Stewart and Ethel McKeen (Reid). After completing grade 12 at Truro Academy, Les taught in a one-room school in Elmsvale. He received a scholarship to attend Dalhousie University, where he made many lifelong friends and graduated with his BComm. While at Dal, Les was co-secretary of the Student Christian Movement (SCM) and attended Royal Military College in Kingston during summers. Les’ interest in stock market investing was stimulated by a brief period working in financial services in Toronto. After developing tuberculosis, he convalesced in Muskoka and Kentville. Upon recovering, he worked with Nova Scotia Trust on Spring Garden Road.

In 1959, Les met his wife-to-be, Margaret Jean Sherry, on a double date and were married in Musquodoboit in 1962. Les then had a 29-year career with the Nova Scotia Department of Development. Two of the various positions he was most proud of involved running the Youth Entrepreneurial Skills (YES) program and working with Co-ops.

An avid fitness buff, Les swam daily and his involvement with the YMCA spanned 50 years. He enjoyed watching hockey and baseball and attended the 1972 Canada-Russia hockey series in Moscow.

Les had a big heart and was actively involved in charity work, including volunteering with youth at WoodGreen Community Centre in Toronto, fundraising for the Y and United Way, taking Valley produce and treats to Halifax shelters, and serving as a Big Brother. He was also active in his community and church, teaching Sunday school at St. Matthew’s and Rockingham United, and volunteering with Boy Scouts. A devoted Dalhousie alumnus, Les attended class reunions and established an award in his late sister Frances’ memory. A true family man, Les cherished time with his wife, children, and grandchildren, whether it be spending time together at Berwick United Church Camp or at the well-loved family cottage at Evangeline Beach.

Predeceased by siblings, Frances Lilla Stewart, Dr. John Thomas Stewart, Seymour McKeen Stewart, Jean Isabelle Albright, Shirley Margaret Carver. Les is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margaret (Sherry); and by his children, Sherry (Brian Stewart-Hill), Sheena (Yggy King), and Robin (Douglas Heaney); grandchildren, Amaya Stewart-Hill, Laila Stewart-Hill, Brennan King, Fiona King, Christian Hill, and Courtney James (CJ) Hill; brother and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial service to be held in Rockingham United Church, 12 Flamingo Dr., at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, December 11th; reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund or Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation or to the Frances L. Stewart Prize in Psychology through Dalhousie. To send an on-line condolence, please email: sheenabean@shaw.ca.

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

Guyette, Mary Theresa Jacqueline “Jackie”

Guyette, Mary Theresa Jacqueline “Jackie” – Age 86, Elmsdale, died peacefully on November 29, 2015 at home. Born in River Bourgeois, she was a daughter of the late John Charles “Henry” and the late Margaret Mary (Landry) Pottie. A long-time educator and active community volunteer, Jackie gave generously of her time and talent to many worthy organizations. Her door was always open to those in need.

Surviving are her husband of 61 years, Leo; children, Kim (Doug), Leo (Wendy), Claire (Peter), Michael (Cathy), Rosemary (Dick), Dawn (David), Trish (Jack); 18 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; brothers, Lloyd, Ross; sisters, Vivian, Ann; many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by sister, Judy; son-in-law, Sherman.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday at 2 p.m. in St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Enfield, Father Michael Walsh officiating. A reception will follow. Interment will be in St. Bernard’s Parish Columbarium. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Chalice Canada or a charity of choice.

Special thanks to the VON, local Lions Club and family members for their excellent support.

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

Brown, H. Russell

Brown, H. Russell – Age 77, of Shubenacadie. It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Russell, on November 20, 2015, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in North Salem, he was a son of the late Howard and Sadie (Parker) Brown. In his early years, Russell worked in lumber camps, was a truck driver, and also worked at Orie Kerr’s sawmill. In 1966, Russell went to work as a school bus driver for Hants East, and later with Chignecto Central Regional School Board where he worked for 31 years, retiring in 1997. Russell was known for his love of talking, telling stories, and he always loved a good joke. He loved the Toronto Maple Leafs, playing cards, and Percheron horses.

Surviving are his wife, the former Sandra Sproutt; son, Terry (Holly), Belmont; daughters, Debbie (Rick) Anthony, Shubenacadie; Connie (Jamie) Hiltz, Dutch Settlement; brother, Kenneth (Carrie), Brookfield; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by son, Howard; granddaughter, Courtney; brothers, Roy, Cecil, Wilfred; sisters, Lillian and Rita in infancy.

No visitation by request. In keeping with Russell’s wishes, his body has been donated to Dalhousie Research. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday at 2 p.m. in St. James Anglican Church, Shubenacadie, Rev. Canon David Fletcher officiating. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

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

Fleming, Eva Fay

Fleming, Eva Fay – Age 81, of Stewiacke, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2015, in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax. Born in Stewiacke, she was a daughter of the late Gordon and Mavis (Hilchie) Weaver. She will be dearly missed by her immediate family. Surviving are sons, Anthony (Earleen) Connors, Robert Fleming; stepchildren, Sharon Holliday, Diane Fleming; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Shirley Foster; brothers, Eric and Lorne Weaver. She was predeceased by her husband, William Fleming; sisters, Diane Erskine, Ruth Miller, Jeannie Fassett; brothers, Vaughn, Dewey; two grandsons.

Cremation has taken place. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Stewiacke East. Memorial donations to QEII Foundation (VG Site-Palliative Care) would be appreciated.

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

MacPherson, John Douglas

MacPherson, John Douglas – Age 65, Jeddore. It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved John on November 12, 2015. He had a gigantic heart and throughout his life touched many people with his generosity and kindness. Born in Springhill, he was a son of Florence (Terris) and the late Douglas MacPherson. John married his high school sweetheart, Cherry. Married for 44 years, they built a beautiful life filled with love and devotion that was apparent to all who knew them. Although he had many accomplishments in his life, his pride and joy was his family.

A well-respected educator, John mentored many teachers and students throughout his career while serving as a school administrator across the Eastern Shore. Community involvement over the years included coaching ringette, and participating in the choir and board of directors of First United Church. Following his early retirement from teaching, he became a skilled craftsman in woodworking, enjoyed spending summers at the cottage in Linden, playing guitar and tending to his garden.

Besides his mother, he is survived by his wife, Cherry (Corkum); daughters, Jan (Shawn) Oakey, Laurie (Todd) Snooks, and Amy (Chad) Brooks; son, Kevin (Michelle); grandchildren, Nathan, Claire and Caelyn Oakey, Isla Snooks, Naiomi Brooks, Ada and Iris MacPherson; sisters, Janice (Don) Carter and Barb (John) Prentice; brother, Michael (Kim) MacPherson; several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Sunday, and John’s Celebration of Life will be at 2 p.m. on Monday, both in First United Church, Musquodoboit Harbour, Rev. Joan Griffin officiating. A reception will follow downstairs in the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Mental Health Association or a charity of choice.

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of Twin Oaks for their care and compassion.

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

MacPhee, David Elroy

MacPhee, David Elroy – Age 66, Upper Musquodoboit, passed away November 9, 2015, in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital, Middle Musquodoboit. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Reginald and Elizabeth “Betty” (Fraser) MacPhee. David enjoyed mowing lawns, ploughing driveways, and working on cars. He had been a truck driver for many years, and most recently had been doing security work.

Surviving are his beloved sister, Kathleen Anne; brother, Morris; as well as many friends. He was predeceased by sister, Judy; brother, Jimmie.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be Thursday at 2 p.m. in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Dr. Linda Yates officiating. Burial to follow in Hillcrest Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Musquodoboit Valley Health Foundation.

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

Many thanks to the staff at the hospital for the wonderful care that David received.

Spinney, Douglas Allan

Spinney, Douglas Allan – Age 48, Middle Musquodoboit, passed away unexpectedly on November 1, 2015, at home. Born in Truro, he was a son of Elizabeth (Currie) Spinney and the late Douglas Spinney. Doug was always a hard worker and had been employed at various sawmills in the area. He would give anyone the shirt off his back and do without himself. Doug enjoyed telling stories and sharing a joke.

He will always be loved and sadly missed by his lifelong partner, Ruth Nieforth; brother, Dave (Juanita); stepdaughter, Juanita Nieforth (Paul); stepson, Christopher Nieforth; grandchildren, Rylund, Sabbation; as well as many extended family members. Doug was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Edward and Edna Currie; paternal grandparents, Ruby Charlton and Milton Spinney; step-granddaughter, Onika.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Friends are welcome to meet with the family on Saturday from 2-4 p.m. downstairs in Middleton United Church, Middle Musquodoboit. Memorial donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia would be appreciated.

Many thanks to the neighbours and First Responders for all your kindness.

MacDonald (Lynds), Paulette Ellen

MacDonald (Lynds), Paulette Ellen – Age 61, of Port Hawkesbury. It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Paulette Ellen (Lynds) MacDonald, which occurred in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, during the early hours of November 1, 2015. Paulette was born in Windsor, Ont. and was a daughter of Shirley I. (Hutchinson) Crowell of Valley, and the late Ronald H. Lynds. Paulette is survived by sons, Todd (Marilyn), Beaver Bank; Travis (Savannah), Oromocto; grandchildren, Ella Rose and Jamie; mother, Shirley (Marshall) Crowell; brothers, Ron Lynds, West Bay; Scott Lynds, Truro; Court (Claudette) Lynds, Lantz; Terry (Sherri) Crowell, Brookfield; nephews, Coby and Keegan Crowell; niece, Emmi Lynds. She was predeceased by grandson, Dawson MacDonald; a brother in infancy, Brian Andrew Lynds.

Paulette was a generous, kind-hearted soul and inseparable from her beloved Shih Tzu, Benji, and cat, Gwen. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A service in her memory will be held at 10 a.m. Friday in St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Port Hawkesbury. Interment will be in Onslow Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Special thanks go out to her cousin, Maxine Cavanaugh Durnin and her best friend, Nancy Marchand.

Fraser, Joyce Kathleen

Fraser, Joyce Kathleen – Age 85, of Upper Musquodoboit, passed away October 29, 2015 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in Upper Musquodoboit, she was a daughter of the late James and Lottie (White) Fraser. Joyce had been employed as a claims officer with the federal government for 27 years, retiring in 1987. From 1984 until 1992, she and her son, Paul, operated Paul’s Hardwood. Joyce enjoyed travelling, reading and writing.

Surviving are her son, Paul; grandchildren, Jennifer and Scott; sister-in-law, Audrey Fraser; numerous nieces and nephews. The last surviving member of her immediate family, she was predeceased by brother, Gerald; sisters, Betty (Reg) MacPhee, Marie (Donald) MacInnis; nieces, Judy and Sally.

Visitation will be Sunday from 3-5 p.m. and funeral service will be Monday at 2 p.m., both in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. Burial to follow in Hillcrest Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. James United Church general fund.

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

Keeble, Dorothy Edna “Kim”

Keeble, Dorothy Edna “Kim” – Age 90, of Dartmouth, and formerly of Upper Rawdon, passed away peacefully at her home on October 27, 2015. Born in Hamilton, Ont., she joined the RCAF where she served as a wireless operator during the Second World War. After her service, she trained as a secretary and worked for many years as office manager in the law offices of Roy Long Associates in Vancouver, B.C. In 1975, she retired, moving to Upper Rawdon with her best friend, Connie Clarke, where they had a mini farm with a large garden, goats, a pig and chickens. She enjoyed this life immensely, especially the chickadees and humming birds. Dorothy was a great champion of the universal language, Esperanto. She gave postal courses, taught it in local schools, and at home. It was an interest that she remained passionate about to the end.

Besides her parents, Roy and Mary Alice Keeble, she was predeceased by her sister, Lois Reynolds. Dorothy is survived by her sister, Barbara Green, Hamilton; brother, Arthur (Barbara), Musquodoboit Harbour; several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. There will be no visitation by request. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday in St. John Vianney Roman Catholic Church, Lower Sackville. Reception to follow in Rawdon Hills United Church Hall, Upper Rawdon. Donations in Dorothy's memory may be made to a charity of choice.

MacLennan, John Quinn

MacLennan, John Quinn – It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of John Quinn McLennan, age 40, on Sunday, October 25, 2015. He was a devoted father and a friend to many. His smile and sense of humour will be missed by all who knew him.

Born August 12, 1975, to Donald MacLennan and Faith O’Hara, he is survived by paternal grandmother, Helen McLennan; mother, Faith O’Hara; brothers, Lincoln McLennan and Tyler Hughes; sisters, Dorian MacLennan and Logan Baker (Darcy Baker); his former wife and friend, Shelley Myrer; beloved children, Brittany-Ann Gillis (Justin Gillis), Aimee-Lyn Gilhen (Wally Bowser), and John MacLennan, Jr.; his grandchildren, Oliver and Jillian Gillis, and baby Bowser who is expected in February, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. He was predeceased by maternal grandmother, Mary Downey; paternal grandfather, John “Jack” MacLennan; father, Donald MacLennan, and stepfather, John Hughes.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. An informal celebration of John’s life will take place in the Royal Canadian Legion, Gaetz Brook, on November 1 from 2-4 p.m. No burial at the family’s request.

Turpel, John Edward

Turpel, John Edward – Age 68, Shubenacadie, passed away October 28, 2015, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Leslie and Ruby (Hannaford) Turpel. John had been a truck driver for most of his working life, and his love of the outdoors also lead his life to farming and fishing. He enjoyed working in the woods, and hunting with his friends.

Surviving are his wife of 47 years, the former Carol Keddy; children, John, Theresa (Paul) Scothorn; grandson, Luke Scothorn; sister, Noreen (Richard) MacIver; and many extended family members. He was predeceased by brother, Ken; sister, Lorraine Perrier.

Cremation has taken place. No visitation or funeral service by request. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Victorian Order of Nurses or Canadian Red Cross.

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

A special thank you to the VON for the wonderful support provided to John and the family.

Grant, Wilson James

Grant, Wilson James – Age 23, Truro, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2015. Born in Halifax, he was a son of David James Wilson Grant and Margaret Elizabeth (Yould) Grant, Truro. Surviving are his fiancée, Jessica Weatherbee; sons, Travis and Hunter; brother, Benjamin; sister, Lauren; paternal grandparents, Clifford and Sally Grant, British Columbia; maternal grandparents, David and Janet Yould, Truro.

Cremation has taken place. A family graveside service will be held in Watson Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in trust for Travis and Hunter, at BMO Bank of Montreal, Truro Branch.

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

Clark, Currie Dean

Clark, Currie Dean – Age 68, of Nine Mile River, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2015. The oldest son of the late Cecil and Marie (Murphy) Clark, Currie will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 48 years, Nancy (Swaine). He is also survived by his daughter, Katherine VanderKooi (Derek), Nine Mile River; son, Russell, Elmsdale; brother, Ronald, Truro, and sisters, Donalda MacDonald, Dartmouth and Ethel Beach (Randall), Goremanville. Currie’s pride and joy were his grandsons, Brett and Devin VanderKooi and Keegan Garber-Clark, and most recently a great-granddaughter, Hailey VanderKooi. Currie will be fondly remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Gary and Margaret Thompson, Lawrence and Sandra Harvey, and Lawrence and Marguerite Crowe, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by infant brother, Russell.

Currie was a machine operator working construction most of his life. He built numerous roads, and dug many basements, wells and sewers throughout Hants County. Currie will always be remembered for his teasing, his large laugh and big wave.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. No visitation by request. A celebration of Currie’s life will be held Saturday, November 7, from 2-4 p.m. in Nine Mile River Community Hall, 7160 Highway 14, Nine Mile River. A private family burial will take place. Memorial donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Hospice Society, 89 Queen St., Truro, NS B2N 2B2.

Special thank you for the wonderful care Currie received from Dr. Pelley and the palliative team of doctors and nurses, as well as VON nurses and home care.

Dunn, John Henry

Dunn, John Henry – Age 56, of Eastern Passage, passed away suddenly, on October 21, 2015. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late John and Patricia (Arsenault) Dunn. John was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and enjoyed the odd round of golf. He had a huge heart and was always there for anyone who needed help. His grandson, Ethan, made him the happiest.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Heather (Moore) Greenough; his children, Christopher (Nicole) Greenough, Eastern Passage; Allie (Steve) Taylor, Leduc, Alberta; Jonathan Dunn, Mount Uniacke; grandson, Ethan; brother, Gerald (Denise) Dunn, Dartmouth; several nieces and nephews; as well as the whole Moore family.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, at 2 p.m., in The Buffalo Club, 625 Cow Bay Road, Eastern Passage. You are invited to drop in and share a story with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, John would have a laugh, asking that donations go to the Toronto Maple Leafs, as they need all the help they can get.

Jodrey, Edith “Fay”

Jodrey, Edith “Fay” – Age 83, of Lake Egmont, passed away October 15, 2015, in Dartmouth General Hospital. Born in Saskatoon, Sask., she was a daughter of the late Tom and Edith (Dodd) Brooks. Fay enjoyed the outdoors, and her home was open to everyone. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She will always be missed by daughter, Sharon (Verne) Thomas; son-in-law, Robert Dillman; grandchildren, Tracey (Pierre) Doyle, Tanya Dillman (Doug), Kerry Thomas (Robert), Jeff Dillman; great-grandchildren, Jenna (Brian), Dillan, Taylor, Gabby; also her step-grandchildren; sisters, Eileen Fralick, Beryle Holder; brother, Doug. She was predeceased by her husband, Earle; daughter, Susan; two daughters and a son, all in infancy; brother, Bob.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 2 p.m. in St. Paul’s United Church, Antrim, Rev. Dr. Linda Yates officiating. Burial will follow in Nuttall Hill Cemetery. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

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

Many thanks to the staff of Twin Oaks Hospital and The Birches for the wonderful care Fay received.

Pittman, John Charles

Pittman, John Charles – Age 51, of Gaetz Brook, passed away unexpectedly, on October 10, 2015. Born in Halifax, he was a son of Barbara (Sibley) Pittman and Curtis Gale. John had been employed for many years as an automotive mechanic and, at the time of his death, was working as a welder with Alscott Air Systems. He enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, and spending time with his four-legged friends, Jake and Nikki.

He was a loving son, brother, father, grandfather, husband and uncle, as well as a friend to many. John will always be loved by parents, Barb and Curt; partner, Sheila (Daurie) Horne; children, Jason (Shelley), Darcy (Karla), Samantha (Devon); grandchildren, Alivia, Arionna, Madison, Noah, Tyler, Ethan, Aailyah, Devon “DJ”, Nathanial, Casey; brothers, David (Annette), Patrick (Melissa); stepchildren, Conway (Brett), Chris (Carolyn), Brian (Lisa), Heather (Corey); stepbrothers, Robert (Kris), Johnny, Joey (Donna); brother by choice, Tommy Stephenson; many aunts and uncles, special aunt, Ruby (Al); nieces, Dezire (Brad), Kali; nephews, Connor (Elizabeth), Aric; and many cousins. He is also survived by biological father, Anslem (Bertha) Roma. He was predeceased by sister, Helen; stepfather, Jack Pittman; maternal grandparents, Alexander and Helen Sibley; paternal grandparents, Allison and Mary Gale.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be Friday at 2 p.m. in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. Donations in John’s memory may be made to The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, Nova Scotia Chapter.

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

Geddes, Irene

Geddes, Irene – Age 82, Westphal, passed away peacefully October 6, 2015 in Dartmouth General Hospital. Born in Glenmore, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Gladys (Hamilton) Rogers. Irene’s door was always open. The cookie jar was always full and the teapot was always ready. She loved to dance and enjoyed walks with her friends.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and will be lovingly missed by husband of 65 years, Donald; children, Judy French (Charles), Wilmot; Bill (Trudy), Eastern Passage; Karen Geddes (Dan Hillier), Dartmouth; Kendall (Vicki), Fall River; grandchildren, Trevor Croteau (Sara), Jason Croteau, Erin Geddes; great-grandchildren, Paige, Mitchell, Tyler and Benjamin; brothers, Carl (Mona), Doug, Frank (Willa), Jim (Freda); sister, Jessie (Eldon) Geddes; sisters-in-law, Muriel Rogers, Betty Rogers. She was predeceased by brothers, Herb, Earl, Burnard, Austin (Gloria), Aubrey (Beatrice), Donnie in infancy; sisters, Ida (Charles), Ethel (Lester), Helen (Earl); sister-in-law, Martha; son-in-law, Mike Croteau.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. on Friday, and funeral will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, both in Port Wallis United Church, 263 Waverley Rd, Dartmouth, Rev. Ivan Gregan officiating. Reception will follow in the church hall. Family burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Stewiacke East. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia, or a charity of one’s choice.

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

Special thanks to the staff of 3 West, Dartmouth General Hospital for their wonderful care and support shown to our mother.

MacDonald, Erma Christina

MacDonald, Erma Christina – Age 80, Timberlea, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2015 in the Halifax Infirmary, QEII, Halifax. Born in Lindsay Lake, she was a daughter of the late Elmer and Leona (Miller) Stewart. Erma led a very versatile life, including childcare, lumber mill cook, housekeeper, store clerk, legal secretary and was also business manager and bookkeeper of Donnie’s many businesses. Many people in the community may remember her as the “Bottle Lady” as she started and ran the bottle exchange, as well as a plant, shrub and topsoil business next to their home in Timberlea. Erma was a member of Trinity United Church where she had been a session member, former choir member and U.C.W. member.

In 1975, Erma was a founding member of Stewart Hill Acreage where the family camp together every year in Upper Musquodoboit. Every five years there is a four-day family reunion where hundreds of family members come together. She was happy to be part of a legacy that the Stewart family will continue to pass on for generations.

Erma was a gentle soul and a wonderful, caring, patient wife, mother, grandmother and mother-in-law. She had a dry sense of humour and could be very funny if you were quick enough to catch it. She also made the best apple pie around. Erma enjoyed planting and tending her vegetable garden, walking and hiking. She loved the outdoors, including the wind and the rain, birds and flowers.

Erma will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Surviving are her loving and dedicated husband, Donnie; sons, Ross (Lisa), Don (Bronwen); granddaughters, Rebecca and Simone, who were the lights of her life. She also leaves behind brothers and sisters, Norma McDow, Loren, Currie (Debbie), Mona Rogers (Carl), Bruce (Cheryl), Calvin (Ferne), Boyde (Jackie), Eric (Ann), Karen Swaine (Graham); sister-in-law, Susan Stewart; many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by brothers, Ivan and Bryan; brother-in-law, Kenny McDow; sister-in-law, Lynda Stewart.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., and funeral service will be Friday at 2 p.m., all in Trinity United Church, 67 Trinity Way, Timberlea, Rev. Helene Burns officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Parkinson Society Maritime Region.

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

A special thank you to the nursing staff of 8.1 in the Halifax Infirmary for your compassion and care; it was greatly appreciated.