Newhook, Rev. Russel Herbert, BA, MDiv

Newhook, Rev. Russel Herbert, BA, MDiv – Age 80, went peacefully to meet his maker on May 18, 2016, surrounded by his loving family, in Dykeland Lodge, Windsor. Born in Moose River Gold Mines, Russel was the eldest son of the late Herbert and Gladys Newhook, and husband of 60 years of Sylvia (Dean) Newhook. After graduating from Musquodoboit Rural High School, Russel worked at Imperial Oil for six years. He then made the life-changing decision to go into the ministry. He worked on various Pastoral Charges while attending Acadia and Mount Allison Universities, and Atlantic School of Theology, working towards his ordination. In 1972, Walton Pastoral Charge was his first charge as an ordained minister. He returned to Walton for his last years of preaching, and retired in 1999. Walton became as much like home as Musquodoboit. His request was to be laid to rest in Grace United Church Cemetery.

Russel enjoyed hunting and fishing, dancing, playing cards, playing his guitar and singing. He especially loved working, playing and puttering around on “the farm,” which was a sanctuary for him and his family.

Besides his wife, Russel is survived by his children, MaryDean (Blair) Carman, Arlene Newhook, twins, Sheila MacLean and Sheryl (Bruce) Smith, Wade (Sheri), Cecile (Alan) Heighton, and Ward (Grace), as well as 17 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Mamie Higgins, Rena Russell, Eric (Doreen), Gladys (John) Dobson, Cecil (Phyllis), and Linda Hunt. He was predeceased by his sisters, Mary Wilbur and Donna, in infancy.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit, and J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home, Summerville. Cremation has taken place, with no visitation by request. A graveside service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in Grace United Church Cemetery, Walton, Kayla Colford officiating, followed by a Celebration of Life in Grace United Church Hall.

The family would like to extend our sincerest thanks and appreciation for the care Russel received during his time at Dykeland Lodge, especially during the last days of his journey. We could not have asked for better care and consideration.

Memorial donations may be made to Dykeland Lodge Palliative Care, Heart and Stroke Foundation of NS, Lung Association of NS, or a charity of choice.

Fry (Creaser), Elizabeth “Beth”

Fry (Creaser), Elizabeth “Beth” – Age 95. Beth was born in Riverport, a daughter of the late James Eben and Bertha May Creaser. She died peacefully in Windsor Elms on May 19, 2016. Beth spent her childhood years in Riverport, before attending Teacher’s College in Truro. At age 18, she began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse in New Russell. In 1939, Beth moved to Halifax, where she later met her loving husband of 59 years, Charles “Chick” Fry. They moved to Wolfville in 1963 with their four children, where she became an active member of St. John’s Anglican Church and the ACW. Beth resumed her teaching career at Gaspereau Elementary where she taught grade primary until her retirement. Her many hobbies included lawn bowling, swimming, knitting, baking, reading the daily newspaper, and doing word puzzles. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She will be lovingly remembered for her wisdom, kindness, and her natural ability to teach in all areas of life.

Left to cherish her memory are son, Peter (Karen), Sheffield Mills; daughter Elizabeth (Bill) Gibson, Windsor; son-in-law, Alexander Young, Halifax; grandchildren, Eben, Emma, Lauren, Graydon, Taryn, Hazen, Maya, Hannah, Shay, Peter; great-grandchildren, Elias, Lily, Olivia, Rowan, and Amadé; nephew, Derek Creaser. Beth was predeceased by her sister, Elaine; brother, Gerald; husband, Chick; sons, James and David.

A memorial service for Beth will be held on Thursday at 2 p.m. in St. John’s Anglican Church, Wolfville. Donations may be made to St. John’s Anglican Church, Windsor Elms Village, or the David Fry Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Swim Nova Scotia.

Beth’s family would like to thank the staff at Windsor Elms Village for their exceptional care and kindness.

Fletcher, Joan Winifred

Fletcher, Joan Winifred – Age 82, of Cole Harbour, passed away on May 13, 2016, with her loving family by her side. A gardener, and artist in retirement, Joan was a creative and loving woman, young in spirit and always engaged in life. Following national politics and keeping an eye on world affairs was her most recent passion. Joan had a tireless enthusiasm for life, was not afraid to talk about anything, and every conversation with her was constructive and stimulating. Joan instilled a love for reading, asking questions and sharing knowledge, and inspired all her children and grandchildren to be teachers of some kind and to help others to learn and engage. Joan showed great caring, beauty, and strength of spirit right up until her final hours.

Born in Georgetown, Guyana in 1933 to Albert and Winifred Outridge, she was followed by three siblings, Leslie, Arthur and Ann, who eventually all moved to Canada. Joan moved to Wawa, Ont. at age 21, where she settled and then married Frank Fletcher, from Great Village. She worked in various capacities in Wawa, from bank teller to medical secretary, legal aid to bookkeeper, while she brought up their three children. In the early 1970s, she enacted her dream of opening the Bookstore and Hobby Centre in Wawa, while simultaneously serving as an elected school board member, volunteering with the Canadian Mental Health Association and other community groups, finding time to skip a curling team to a few wins, and lots of laughter. Joan was a great friend and community leader.

Upon retirement in 1989, she moved to Nova Scotia, her place by the sea, and began to systematically transform a rugged hillside into an attractive garden with only her willpower, a weed eater (actually multiple weed eaters), and a stubborn belief that anything was possible. She also found time to volunteer with VON and SDHHNS (Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians), conduct art therapy classes, and convey the comfort and power she felt from the ocean in oil and water color paintings.

Joan was predeceased in 2010 by her husband, Frank, after 54 years of adventure together. She is survived by children, Diane, Jennifer (Desale) and David (Debbie); grandchildren, Andralyn (Duane), David and Rebecca. She also leaves behind many relatives and close friends spread across Canada and around the world. She was the loving aunt of many nieces and nephews, and “second Mom” to others.

Many thanks to the Palliative Care team and her health care providers over the years.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday in the Anglican Church of Saint Andrew, 2 Circassion Dr., Cole Harbour. Reception to follow in the church. Interment to take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Red Cross or Plan International.

Conrod, Peter Silas

Conrod, Peter Silas – Age 77, Head Chezzetcook. It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our devoted and loving father, grandfather and brother, on May 13, 2016, in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital, following a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Head Chezzetcook, he was a son of the late Nelson and Winnie (Sparks) Conrod. Peter was a crane operator in his early years, and at the age of 44, started his own construction company known as Peter S. Conrod Construction Limited. He proudly built this company for his family for over 30 years, and recently passed on his legacy. He and his wife Ruby travelled to Florida every winter for over 20 years. Peter loved the outdoors, camping, gardening, and could be seen proudly sitting on his tractor mowing the field.

Surviving are his children, Rickey (Monique), Darren (Ada), Sandra (Paul) Beaver, Nelson (Peggy); grandchildren, Janette, Nicholas, Rachel, John, Evan, Denise, and Robin; sister, Norma Higginbotham. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruby; brother, Maxie; brother-in-law, Harry Higginbotham; niece, Gail; nephew, Nelson.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Funeral service will be Wednesday at 2 p.m., in St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Head Chezzetcook, Rev. Kyle Wagner officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. A reception will be held in Chezzetcook District Lions Club. Memorial donations may be made to St. Barnabas Anglican Church or Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital.

A special thanks to the devoted nursing staff for the love and compassion shown to our father during his stay in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital. The number of friends who visited Dad in the hospital overwhelmed him, and gave him strength and encouragement each day. You are much loved and appreciated.

Higgins (Burns), Kathleen “Pearl”

Higgins (Burns), Kathleen “Pearl” – Age 90, passed away May 11, 2016, in Braeside Home for Special Care, Middle Musquodoboit. Born in Elderbank, she was a daughter of the late John William and Julia (Miller) Burns. On May 17, 1943, she married Lyman Higgins, and in 1948, they settled in Elderbank. Here she worked in Dares’ store, and later in Snooks’ store and Reid’s store in Middle Musquodoboit. Pearl enjoyed camping with friends and family, hunting (she shot her own moose), needlework, gardening, knitting and following baseball.

Surviving are son, Cale, Elderbank; daughter, Carol (Brian) Matthews, Truro; grandchildren, Michael Higgins, Toronto, Julie Naugler, Calgary; Jacqueline Matthews, Columbus, Ohio; Jennifer Kelly, Beaver Bank; great-grandchildren, James Higgins, Toronto; Isabella and Rebecca Naugler, Calgary. Pearl was predeceased by her husband, Lyman; son, Clary; brothers, Cale, Ralph, Alec, Freddy; sister, Eva.

Funeral service will be Saturday, at 11 a.m., in St. Andrew’s United Church, Elderbank, Rev. Dr. Linda Yates officiating. Burial will follow in Elderbank Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Musquodoboit Valley Health Foundation – Braeside, or Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.

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

Pearl spent her final years in Braeside, and her family thank all of the staff for their kind love and care for her during that time.

Blakeney, David Marvin

Blakeney, David Marvin – Age 69, Lake Echo, passed away May 8, 2016 in Dartmouth General Hospital. Born in West Jeddore, he was a son of the late Walter and Clara (Myers) Blakeney. David loved to get in his car and travel to Prince Edward Island.

Surviving are his wife, the former Laura Freeman; brother, Walter (Marjorie), Musquodoboit Harbour; sisters, Pansy (Hurson) Maskell, West Jeddore; Jean (Horst) Weisner, Ontario; many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., and funeral service will be Friday at 2 p.m., all in Marine Drive Pentecostal Church, Jeddore, Pastor Scott Anderson officiating. Burial will follow in West Jeddore Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Many thanks to the doctors and nurses on the fourth floor of Dartmouth General Hospital for the wonderful care given to David.

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

MacElmon, Mattie Holland

MacElmon, Mattie Holland – Debert/Woodstock. It is with sadness the family of Mattie Holland MacElmon announces her passing on May 9, 2016 at age 98, in Debert Court, Debert. Born in Portland, Maine, she was a daughter of the late Phillip and Mattie Crowell Carter. Mattie and her husband of 70 years, Art, lived in Woodstock, N.B. until his death, at which time she moved to Truro to be near family. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Woodstock chapter, and an adherent of Jacksonville United Church. She enjoyed any type of needlework and was especially crafty at knitting. She played golf and curled for many years. Mattie enjoyed old-time fiddling and followed Art all over for fiddle contests, dances and local jam sessions with the Carlton County Fiddlers.

Mattie is survived by sister, Jean Patterson, Maitland; sister-in-law, Grace Archibald, Windsor; many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by brothers, Ray, Phillip and Wallace; sister, Evelyn Lamond.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Debert Court, 16 Dakota Drive, Debert, Rev. Glenn MacLean officiating. Burial will be in Robie Street Cemetery, Truro. Family flowers only. Donations in Mattie’s memory may be made to IWK Health Foundation.

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

Ashley, Vincent George

Ashley, Vincent George – Age 70, Dutch Settlement, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2016, at home. Born in Dutch Settlement, he was a son of the late Russell and Nina (Hines) Ashley. When not working at National Gypsum, Vincent enjoyed his hobby farm, fishing, horse racing, and at one time, he ran a meat shop.

Surviving are his wife, the former Colleen Cantfell; daughters, Kelly (Dwight), Kim (David); sisters, Iris, Theresa; brother, John. He was predeceased by two siblings in infancy.

Cremation has taken place. In keeping with Vincent’s wishes, there will not be a visitation or funeral service. Memorial donations may be made to St. George’s Anglican Church, Nova Scotia Wildlife Federation, or Canadian Cancer Society.

Thank you to the family and many friends for your wonderful care and support.

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

Russell, Burris “Bub”

Russell, Burris “Bub” – Age 87, Clam Harbour, passed away suddenly after a short illness, on May 2, 2016, in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital, Musquodoboit Harbour. Born in Clam Harbour, he was a son of the late Roy and Hazel (Lewis) Russell. Bub had been a lobster fisherman and later worked with Canada Post delivering mail. He enjoyed playing cards, and was a force to be reckoned with at cribbage. His easy-going nature made him a friend to many.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and will be sadly missed by his wife of 62 years, the former Maureen DeBaie; children, Richard, Nancy (Seldon), Stephen (Linda), Colette; six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; sisters, Ruby, Sheila (Percy); sisters-in-law, Myrtle, Shirley. He was predeceased by brothers, Royce and Bruce; brother-in-law, Ellis.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be Friday, at 11 a.m., in Heritage Village Clam Harbour Church, Lake Charlotte, Rev. Joan Griffin officiating. Private family burial will follow. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital or Heritage Village.

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

Campbell, Joan Faye

Campbell, Joan Faye – Age 59, Brookfield, passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2016, with family at her side. Born in Truro, she was a daughter of Lillian “Hazel” (Hollingsworth) VanIderstine. She will be sadly missed by her husband, Paul “Bomber”; sons, Mac (Nadine), Paul (Joy), Turtle (Sarah); grandchildren, Mackenzie, Samantha, Gavin, Regan, Brooklyn; siblings, David, Gail, Pat, Cathy. She was predeceased by her sister, Donna; brother, Wendell; stepfather, Alvin “Papa” Sullivan.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, at 2 p.m., in Brookfield Curling Club. Memorial donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Health Foundation – Palliative Care.

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

Thank you to the Palliative Care team for your tremendous care, as well as family and the community for your support.

Harnish, Della St. Claire

Harnish, Della St. Claire – Age 66, of Hilden, went “gentle into that good night” on April 29, 2016, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Upper Stewiacke, she was a daughter of the late Sinclair Martin and Nina Marion (Fleming) Gault. Della was a graduate of Musquodoboit Rural High School. She worked at Zellers for a number of years and then at Searle’s Garden Centre, which she enjoyed immensely. She enjoyed working in her flower beds for hours on end, and visiting others to view their flower gardens.

Della is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Ben; daughter, Catherine (Vincent) Langille; granddaughter, Kayla MacDonald (Joseph Fielding); and great-grandchildren, Ethan, Avery, McKenna and Theo. She is also survived by brother, John; sisters, Joyce (Earl) Taylor, Gloria (Calvin) Brown, and Linda (Gordon) Black.

In keeping with Della’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. If you wish to honour her memory, please make a donation to the local SPCA or Parkinson Society.

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

The family would like to especially thank Dr. Smith and the team in the Palliative Care Unit of Colchester East Hants Health Centre for their kind and loving care of Della in her final days.

Daigle (Downey), Margaret Jean

Daigle (Downey), Margaret Jean – It is with great sadness that the family of Margaret Jean (Downey) Daigle announces her sudden passing on April 21, 2016, in Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John, she was a daughter of the late Edward and Jean (Leary) Downey, and wife of the late Frank Daigle. Margaret is survived by her son, Brad (his children, Cody, Jessie and Tyler); daughters, Shelly (Greg) Dean (their children, Courtney and Colton), Rosalind (Robert) Labelle (their children, Patrick and Stéphane); brothers, Edward Jr. (Patsy), Donald (Cathy); sisters, Helen (Doug), and Frances.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday in St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Enfield, Father Michael Walsh officiating. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery. A reception will follow at 62 Alderney Drive, Enfield.

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

Redmond, Diann M.

Redmond, Diann M. – Age 66 of East Chezzetcook, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 10, 2016, in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital surrounded by her family. She was the youngest daughter of the late George and Janet Crawford. Diann lived her life in Chezzetcook and was always active in the community. Known for her baking and crocheting skills, she was always ready and willing to make pies, squares or crafts for weddings, bake sales, and events at the Chezzeetcook Volunteer Fire Department, St. Barnabas Church and St. Genevieve’s Church. She loved to try her luck at Bingo or the card games. Diann will be remembered for her sense of humour and welcoming way. As she would always say “We can throw one more potato in the pot”. She will be dearly missed by her loving husband, Keith; her daughter, Michelle; her son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Christine; and her pride and joy, grandson, Domenic; as well by sister, Georgina (Pete) Sutcliff; brothers, Terry (Eleanor), Lloyd (Jeanne), Weldon (Bernadette) and Roger (Anna); in-laws, Tink (Deanna) Graham and Linda (Robert) Grijm; many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by brothers, Clyde and Donald and sister, Joan (Archie) Reeves.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life funeral mass will be held in St. Genevieve’s Church, East Chezzetcook on Friday, April 22 at 11 a.m., with Father Toochukwu presiding. There will be a reception to follow in the church hall. A private burial will take place at a later date. The family would especially like to thank Father Toochukwu for providing peace in her final moments and the staff of Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital for their compassion and care provided to Diann and her family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Diann’s memory may be made to Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital.

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

Day, Constance Margot “Connie”

Day, Constance Margot “Connie” – Age 75, of Chaswood, passed away April 16, 2016, in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital, Middle Musquodoboit. Born in Saint John, N.B., she was a daughter of the late Arthur and Eva (Mitchell) Estey. Connie was a strong, hard-working woman who devoted several years of her life raising cattle with her husband and family. In later years, she enjoyed going to the exhibitions watching and helping with the family draft horses. She was a loving mother and grandmother who had a witty sense of humour to the end.

She was dearly loved by her family and friends; and will be sadly missed by her son, Donald (Orma); daughters, Wendy (Bayfield Hines), Margot (Tim Benvie); grandchildren, Stephen (Jenna), Donald, Michael, Brittany, Willie, Jessica; brothers, James (Shirley), George, Donnie (Jackie); and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald; brothers, Gerald, Burton; sister, Joan; sister-in-law, Madeline.

Cremation has taken place. Friends are welcome to drop in to Don and Connie’s home on Wednesday beginning at 2 p.m., to share a cup of tea and a story. 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 at Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital for their excellent care.

Horne, Edith Florence

Horne, Edith Florence – Age 86, formerly of Elmsdale, died peacefully in St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, Halifax, on April 12, 2016. Born in Middle Musquodoboit, she was a daughter of the late Earle and Florence (Murphy) Langille. Edie was a registered nurse at the Halifax Infirmary for 25 years, was a founding and life-member of Enfield WINS, and a long-standing member of Oakfield Golf & Country Club.

Surviving are son, Peter (Claire); grandsons, Kyle (Jessica), Eric; great-granddaughters, Taylor and Alanna; brothers, Roy (Reta), Donald (Helen); sisters, Eunice (Ray) Smiley, Jessie Geddes, Donna (John) MacNeil; many nieces “daughters” and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, James; son, Robert “Cookie”; brother-in-law, Donald Geddes.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Wednesday, 6-8 p.m., and funeral mass will be Thursday, at 11 a.m., both in St. Bernard’s Church, Enfield. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. A reception will follow in Enfield Fire Hall. Donations may be made to Canadian Diabetes Association, St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, Colchester East Hants Hospice Society or a charity of choice.

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

Mingo, Robert B.

Mingo, Robert B. – Age 72, East Noel, died April 9, 2016, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. He was a well-respected painting contractor in both Colchester and East Hants. He was a son of the late Bill and Dorothy (Steele) Mingo.

He is survived by his wife, Joanie (Densmore); twin daughters, Camille Fowler and Carmelita (Ross) Tucker; sons, Tony, Terry (Jackie), and Chum; stepdaughters,  Nancy Goodine (Brian Dalrymple) and Daphne Goodine (Jake Harvey); special girl, Annie Manning; sisters, Phyllis (Frank) McNutt, Helen Ross, Mary Davis, Annie Campbell; brothers, Ronnie and Stevie; sister-in-law, Helen Mingo; 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Bob was a role model and pseudo father/grandfather to many. He was predeceased by his first wife, Marie (Hansen); sons, Tommy and Travis; great-grandson, Maverick; sisters, Kathleen, Ruthie, Hazel; brothers, Jim, Geordie, Donnie, John, Eddie, Tommy, Freddy.

Visitation will be 6-9 p.m. Friday, and funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday, with reception to follow, all in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 148 Evergreen Dr., Truro. Burial will be at a later date in Watson Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Palliative Care Program/Equipment – Cough Assist Fund, Colchester East Hants Health Foundation, 600 Abenaki Rd., Truro, NS B2N 5A1.

Special thanks to the Palliative Care nurses, Dr. Cortney Smith and the Palliative Care team for the comfort and care shown during his rapid battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

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

Roach, Leonard Francis

Roach, Leonard Francis – Age 74, Fort Ellis, passed away April 9, 2016 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in New Waterford, he was a son of the late John and Mary (O’Connell) Roach. Surviving are his wife, Louise; daughter, Danielle; stepdaughter, Suzanne; daughters, Sandra, Janet; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother, Mike (Rob); sister, Patsy. He was predeceased by his first wife, Carol; brother, Jackie; brother in infancy.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday at 11 a.m. in St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, Shubenacadie, Father Duncan MacMaster officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

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

Taylor, Kenneth P.

Taylor, Kenneth P. – Of Brookfield. We regret to announce Ken’s passing on April 7, 2016, after a three and a half-year fight with cancer. He was a veteran and spent 65 years doing heavy duty mechanics, as well as being a jack of all trades. Ken was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Anna Taylor; brother, Elmer. He is survived by his spouse, Cathy; siblings, Betty, Arlene, Jack (Jean), Verna (Allan), Billy (Suzanne), Carol (Bob), Julia (Doug), Annette; children, Leesa (Mike), Karen, Jeff, Kathy (David), Patty (Jason), Denny (Amy), 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank our family and friends for all their love, compassion and support through these tough times. We would also like to say a big thank you to the doctors and nurses. As per Ken’s wishes, there will be no wake or funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Health Foundation – Palliative Care.

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

Holland (Martell), Mary Yvonne

Holland (Martell), Mary Yvonne – With heavy hearts and a great loss to us, we announce Mom’s peaceful passing on April 7, 2016, with her family by her side. Born in Comeau’s Hill, Yarmouth, she was a daughter of the late Onesime and Annie (Jacquard) Martell. Mary lived in L’Ardoise, Cape Breton, and in Wedgeport, before moving to Woodside, where she lived for 30 years with her late husband, Ralph, and their children. In 1985, she moved to Barr Settlement Road, where she lived for 29 years, until her husband of 64 years passed away in 2013. She then lived with her daughter in Porters Lake until her passing.

Mary spent her life as a devoted wife and mother, doing odd jobs outside the home and babysitting other children. Mary was involved with the Ladies’ Auxiliary, church groups, and helping many people behind the scenes. She never wanted to be recognized for these things or be the centre of attention. Her open heart, love and kindness were for everyone.

Surviving are daughters, Ann, Jeannie, Annette, Darlene, Esther; son, James, nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by three brothers and one sister.

A very special thank you to Dave Hurley for his devoted care to Mom over the years, and to the medical team who cared for her. To her friends old and new; her cousin, Claire; Sister Jean; your calls and visits made such a big difference in her life and final days. To all who brought homemade goodies, flowers, holy cards, scratch tickets, trinkets, you brought a lot of enjoyment to Mom. Mary and Esther had many laughs over everyone trying to fatten Mom up. Thanks for keeping her mind occupied with reading her cards and prayer cards.

Visitation will be 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, and funeral will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, both in St. Anslem’s Catholic Church, 7037 Highway 207, West Chezzetcook, Father Gregory Agyeman officiating. A reception will follow in the church hall. Burial will be at a later date in St. Bridget’s Catholic Cemetery, 112 Mill Village Road, Shubenacadie. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Multiple Sclerosis Society (Atlantic Division), Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia, your local food bank or church.

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

MacLean, Leslie “Les” Wilfred

MacLean, Leslie “Les” Wilfred - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Les MacLean on Sunday, April 3, 2016, in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital, Middle Musquodoboit. With his loving wife and partner of 32 years, Donna (Richardson) MacLean, by his side, he fought hard during his two-year battle with cancer and dealt with his illness with courage until the end.

In addition to his wife, Les is survived by his daughters, Nicola (Kallol) and Rebecca; sister, Linda (Bruce); brother, Scott (Mary); nieces and nephews; and many long-time friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Joyce (Frizzell) MacLean.

Les grew up in Truro and moved to Halifax to attend Dalhousie, where he began his lifelong membership with the Phi Kappa Pi Fraternity. He had a long successful career in food distribution and had worked with many of the chefs and restaurants in the Halifax area. An avid hunter and fisher, Les brought people together and celebrated friendship and a love of good food. He had many good friends and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. In his final days, Les received wonderful medical care from Oncology doctors and nurses in QEII Health Sciences Centre, and loving care from Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital - the little hospital with a big heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday at 2 pm. in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow St., Truro (no scents, please). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Musquodoboit Valley Health Foundation or Atlantic Clinical Cancer Research Unit (http://qe2foundation.ca/). Online messages of condolence may be sent to Les’ family by visiting: www.ColchesterCommunity.com