Graham, Dr. John Philip Thomas “Jack”

Graham, Dr. John Philip Thomas “Jack” – His family regret to inform you the well‑loved Dr. Jack Graham is no longer seeing patients. He is off on a hard-earned, eternal sailing trip into the great unknown, with his wife and best mate, Dianne Graham, who predeceased him by two weeks and one day. Although our hearts are heavy with their loss, we can’t help but wish them fair winds and smooth seas.

A proud father, husband, sailor, piper, gourmand and a dedicated doctor, Jack lived his life in service to community with dignity and integrity. Many will feel the loss of a doctor for whom health care was more than a career; it was a calling and passion. Denied entrance into the Dalhousie medical program, Jack refused to take no for an answer and learned Spanish in order to apply to medical school in Mexico. Impressed by his determination, Dalhousie finally accepted him, proving that old dogs really can learn new tricks. He came to be affectionately known as “Grandpa” by his classmates, graduating with his Doctor in Medicine in 1979. Practicing in Nova Scotia with Family Practice Associates and in Montgomery, Alabama, he never rushed his patients, taking time to know and care about them, then going above and beyond to do house calls and give support during times of need. He saw patients up until his final months, caring for others despite his own failing health. Jack will be remembered for his involvement as a piper and extremely active member of the “H” Division RCMP Pipe Band, The Saint Andrews Society of Alabama and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

Throughout everything, Dianne was Jack’s constant support, the quiet presence making everything possible. After their marriage in 1972, she continued working in the hematology lab at the VG, delaying starting a family until his graduation from medical school. While Jack worked long hours caring for others, Dianne cared for the home and their children, Elizabeth, Christopher and niece, Laura. Blessed with an extremely fortunate life together, filled with memories, their time here came to a close with Dianne leaving us on June 2 and Jack on June 17.

Predeceased by parents, Frank and Margaret (Hodgson) Graham; survived by siblings, Frank (Joan) and Alan (Shirley); daughter, Elizabeth Brown; son, Christopher Graham (Jessika) and grandchildren, Ila, Sela, and Emma.

A graveside service will be held in Dartmouth Memorial Gardens, 767 Main St., Dartmouth, Friday, June 24, at 10 a.m., followed by a reception and remarks in Atlantic Funeral Home (same address), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A celebration of life will be held for friends and family from 6 p.m. until the wee hours of the morning, in the family home in Tantallon. Due to the sudden loss of Jack and Dianne, in lieu of flowers contributions and condolences can be sent to the family by mail, to Christopher & Elizabeth Graham, PO Box 1690, Lunenburg, NS B0J 2C0, or in person, with the intention of establishing a Jack & Dianne Graham memorial to preserve their legacy and memory. The family can also be contacted at 902-826-1320.

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

Patterson, Joan Marie

Patterson, Joan Marie – East Lawrencetown. It is with deep sadness, we, the family, announce the passing of Joan Marie (Worthing) Patterson, age 76, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Joan passed away on Monday, June 13, 2016 in Dartmouth General Hospital.

Born in Musquodoboit Harbour, she was the daughter of the late Harris Reginald Worthing and Elsie (Baker) (Worthing) Baker. Joan was a devoted wife and mother who took great pride in her family and her home. She will always be remembered for her expertise in the kitchen, her homemade meals, baking and preserves. In addition to her culinary skills, she also enjoyed crafting. She truly appreciated natural beauty and prided herself on the beautiful flower beds and luscious vegetable garden that she planted every year.

She is survived by her daughters, Marlene and Darlene Patterson; her sons, Reid (Hope) and Randy; her grandchildren, Jenna (Duane) Stanley and Adam Patterson; her brother, John Worthing; half-brother, Donald Baker. Joan was predeceased by her husband, Watson (February 16, 2016). A very special thank you from the family goes out to Jessie Nieforth for her continuing friendship and support.

There will be viewing on Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., and funeral service will be Tuesday at 2 p.m., both in Calvin United Church, East Lawrencetown. Burial to follow in East Lawrencetown Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Memorial donations may be made to The Lung Association Nova Scotia.

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

Rix, Elizabeth Ann “Betty”

Rix, Elizabeth Ann “Betty” – Age 74, of Lawrencetown, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2016, in the VG Site, QEII, after a courageous battle with gall bladder cancer. Betty was a daughter of Leda (Bremner) Graham of Dartmouth, and the late Douglas Graham.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Donald Rix; her sister, Sharon (Kevin) McGrath; her children, Nancy Rix, Ronald (Suzanne) Rix and Darrin (Clarissa) Rix; her grandchildren, Grace, Jack, Evan, Thomas, Bailey and Kate, all of Lawrencetown; and several nieces and nephews.

Betty grew up in Dartmouth and attended Park and Greendale schools and Miss Murphy’s Business School. She worked for Comer Real Estate, Continuing Legal Education, Halifax/Dartmouth School Board for 12 years, and later in life was a realtor. Betty was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She had a very close relationship with her in-laws, Everett and Leone Rix. She played bridge for many years with her close friends and belonged to a sewing group and quilting guild. Betty will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Betty was an active member of Calvin United Church in Lawrencetown, where visitation will be held Friday from 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Calvin United Church, Lawrencetown, 3795 Lawrencetown Rd. Donations may be made to Calvin United Church.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff of the VG Site, QEII Hospital in Halifax.

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

Holman, Eva Elizabeth

Holman, Eva Elizabeth – Age 78, Sheet Harbour, passed away June 12, 2016, in Harbourview Lodge, Sheet Harbour. Born in Halifax, she was a daughter of the late Agnes (MacDonald) and John William Barkhouse.

She will be sadly missed by her sons, Gordon, Jr., Sheet Harbour; Randall, Beaver Harbour; daughter, Lisa, Hawthorne, Calif.; granddaughter, Samantha Holman, El Segundo, Calif.; sister, Phyllis (Butch) Hilton, Dartmouth; Patricia (Comley) (Mike) Francisco, San Diego; sisters-in-law, Carole Ann (Keith) Owen, Sheet Harbour; Janet Mahar, Lower Sackville; aunts, Doris Comley, North Carolina; Alice Naugler, Port Dufferin; many nieces and nephews; special friends, Erna Balcom and Minnie Zinck. She was predeceased by her husband of 30 years, Gordon.

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

A private family service will take place at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Harbourview Lodge.

Special thank you to Uncle Keith and Erna for always being there to help Mom with her errands.

Erskine, Robert Lester “Rob”

Erskine, Robert Lester “Rob” – Age 58, of Upper Musquodoboit. The family is deeply saddened to announce his passing on June 9th, 2016. He was the son of the late Donald and Gertie Erskine.

Robert enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, sharing stories and many laughs.

He will be greatly missed by his daughter, Jillian (Justin Grant); granddaughters, Madison, Zoey and Janelle of Montague, P.E.I.; sisters and brothers, Donna lee Scrivens, Quoddy; Michael (Julie), Dartmouth; Alicia Lawrence (Chris), and Nelson, Upper Musquodoboit; four nephews and their families; aunts, Alice Williston, Chatham, N.B.; Shirley Risser and Rita Erskine, Dartmouth; along with many cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Gertie Erskine; brother-in-law, Allan Scrivens; uncles, Kevin Erskine, John Erskine and Robert Risser.

Cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends will be held to celebrate Robert’s life on Wednesday from 1-2 p.m. downstairs in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit. Private family burial to follow.

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

Stewart, Jeffrey Robin

Stewart, Jeffrey Robin – Age 54, Middle Musquodoboit and formerly of Upper Musquodoboit, passed away June 8, 2016, at home. Born in Middle Musquodoboit, he was a son of the late Douglas and Mildred (Canning) Stewart.

Jeff enjoyed talking to everyone he met, taking bus trips with Braeside, and when his health permitted, he enjoyed tinkering with lawn mowers and small engines. He will be sadly missed by the many people he knew.

Surviving are sister, Vicky (Jim) McCoul; brother, Doug (Lila); nephew, Robert (Tracy) MacKay; nieces, Lana MacKay, Shannon Stewart, Carrie (Shawn) Purcell; great nephew, Connor MacKay; great nieces, Natalie MacKay, Victoria MacKay; uncle, Reagh Canning; aunt, Becky Canning; numerous cousins and friends. He was predeceased by sister, Helen (Ross) Weir.

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held in Hillcrest Cemetery, Upper Musquodoboit. 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.

Hill, Eric Wayne

Hill, Eric Wayne – Age 72 of Pembroke, passed away on May 30, 2016, in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax, after a brief illness with his partner Tim at his side. Eric was born in Middle Musquodoboit.

Following graduation from Musquodoboit Rural High School, Eric continued his life’s journey at the Royal Bank, Amherst; Department of Motor Vehicles, Halifax. He then moved to Alberta where he was employed for several years with Canada Post. He returned to Halifax after many years where he continued his career with Canada Post until his retirement. Eric’s passion throughout his life from a very young age was his love for horses.

Left to grieve are his partner, Tim Ward; his mother, Pearl, Truro; his brothers, Rodney (Marie), Truro; Brian (Elaine), Halifax; Tracey (Trudy), North River; several nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Eric was predeceased by his father, Wyman; eldest brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Ann; infant brother, Gary.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Middleton United Church, Middle Musquodoboit, Rev. Dr. Linda Yates officiating. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery. Family will meet friends for a reception downstairs in the church.

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

Hutt, Marshall Howard

Hutt, Marshall Howard – Age 86, Valley, passed away May 31, 2016 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in Shubenacadie, he was the eldest of seven children of the late Howard DeBlois and Bertha Mae (Moore) (Clark) Hutt, and his family included seven half-brothers and sisters.

A Veteran of the Second World War, Marshall served in the Merchant Navy. He worked in the forest and construction industries operating heavy equipment and trucks. He was a talented self-taught mechanic, welder and body repairman.

Marshall gave generously of himself to anyone who came to him with a problem, from helping lost hunters and stranded travellers get home safely, to helping family, friends, neighbours and often complete strangers with mechanical repairs.

His passions in life were his family, friends and his antique cars. He had a special fondness for Model A Fords built between 1928 and 1931, having owned and restored several in his lifetime. He was a founding member of the Truro Golden Age Antique Auto Club, where he helped organize and operate an annual car show which donated all profits to local charities and individuals with special needs.

Above all, Marshall loved a good joke, a good game of cards and the company of friends and family. He had a great sense of humour and would go to great lengths to include and to entertain children. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Surviving are his sons and their families, Daniel (Wendy), Pickering, Ont., Tonya, Christen and Sean; Daryl (Nancy), Valley, Rhonda, Bruce, Tanya and Tara; Lee (Marilyn), Murray Siding, Sherri and Melissa; Barry (Marguerite), Little Dyke, Amy and Brad; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Pearl Barbrick, Truro; brother, Gerald, Windsor;  many nieces, nephews and their families. He is also survived by his wonderful friend and partner, Shirley Crowell; her sons, their families, and the family of her late daughter, Paulette. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, the former Jean Hilda Hodge; brothers, Leland, George, Vincent, Haliburton, Kenneth, Orrie, Elmer; sisters, Jean, Dorothy, Effie, Sadie; several brothers and sisters-in-law.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, followed by funeral service at 3 p.m., both in Valley United Church, Valley, Rev. Mary White officiating, assisted by Rev. Larry Harrison. Burial will immediately follow in Bible Hill Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

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

Jeffers, Frederick Wyman

Jeffers, Frederick Wyman – Age 93, Mahone Bay and formerly of Stewiacke, passed away May 30, 2016, in South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater. Born in Stewiacke, he was the youngest son of the late Wyman and Harriett (Ramsey) Jeffers. Fred went to be with the Lord and will be sadly missed by the many who loved him.

He was saddened at the age of 14 by the loss of his precious mother. At age 19, he enlisted and served proudly overseas in the Royal Canadian Corp of Signals and participated in the Liberation of Holland. He was a lifetime member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 70, Stewiacke. For many years, he was employed with Dominion Bridge and later with Texaco Canada from where he retired in 1982. His main goal was to make sure all his children were educated and to see them successful in life. He was famous for his sense of humour, loved watching sports, and spent many hours reading the paper and doing the puzzles.

Surviving are his soul mate and lifelong true-love partner, Ethel (Rudolph); daughters, Laurie (Ronald) Davis, Deborah Anthony, Marsha (Gary) Conrad; son, Fred (Heather); caring and devoted Cathy Hartling; grandchildren, Heather (John Wentzell), Craig and Maggie Anthony; Meredith and Gary Conrad; Emily and Liam Jeffers; great-granddaughter, Audrey Wentzell; sister, Phyllis MacDonald; many nieces and nephews; special and best friend, Aunt Edith Cameron. He was predeceased by brothers, Darrell (Frances), Carol (Georgie), Wilfred (Kay), Avard (Catherine); sisters, Rena (Earl) Ellis; Marion (Stuart) Atkinson; Avis (Stan) Fullerton; daughter, Heather Lynn in infancy; granddaughter, Erin Anthony.

Visitation will be Wednesday from 6-9 p.m., preceded by a Legion Service. Funeral service will be Thursday at 11 a.m., all in St. Andrew’s United Church, Stewiacke, Rev. David LeBlanc officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, East Stewiacke. Family flowers only. Donations may be made to Mahone Bay Centre-Helping Hands, 45 School St., Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0, or The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff of South Shore Regional Hospital for the excellent compassionate care Fred received while there.

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

Greater love hath no man
Than to lay down his life
For his friend.

Morven, Arthur Joseph

Morven, Arthur Joseph – Age 70, Wyses Corner, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, on May 27, 2016, in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Arthur and Mildred Agnes (Mayo) Morven.

Arthur had a passion for hunting and building. He displayed his love for his trade as a member of Local 56 Pipefitters Union. Arthur made many friends wherever he went.

He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, and will always be loved and missed by his wife, Diane; daughters, Shelley (Peter) Rakovalis, Christine Morven (Yves Simard); son, Arthur; grandchildren, Jessica, Aleesha, Elias; siblings, Dorothy (Donnie) Hartlen, Alice (Bob) Fitzpatrick, Patsy (Henry) Thorne, Cathy Morven. He was predeceased by sister, Rosie Wright.

Visitation will be Tuesday, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., and funeral service will be Wednesday at 10 a.m., both in St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, Shubenacadie, Father Joseph Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in Preeper Hill Cemetery. Donations may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, Atlantic Region.

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

Manuge (Young), Mary Claire

Manuge (Young), Mary Claire – Age 87, of West Petpeswick. It is with sadness that we announce the death of our dear mother, Claire, on May 25, 2016, in Northwood Centre, Halifax. Born in West Petpeswick, she was a daughter of the late Charles B. and Teresa (O’Leary) Young.

She is survived by her husband, Ralph, Camp Hill Veterans’ Memorial Building QEII, Halifax; daughters, Diane (Tonnie) Nolet, West Petpeswick; Adele (Aidan) Evans, Halifax; Chris Manuge (Kim Delong), Amherst; Annemarie Manuge, Chesterville, Ont.; sons, Pat (Claudette), Jamie, both of Hammonds Plains; Peter, Ottawa; Tony, Prince George, B.C.; Dennis, West Petpeswick; brother, Bill (Barbara), Halifax; 10 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her daughter, Penny; daughter-in-law, Tammy; twin grandsons and a great-grandson; brothers, Breen, Basil, Greg, Fr. Gerald, Leo; sisters, Norah, Marina.

Claire was a wonderful mother, Nana, aunt, sister and friend; generous to a fault. She enjoyed watching all of God’s creatures, as well as working in both her flower and vegetable gardens. She was never happier than when she was cuddling a baby. Her grandkids were the twinkle in her eye. Before bed each night she would take out her iPad to look at all their pictures – the highlight of her day.

Our thanks and gratitude to Ann Ferguson who visited Mom regularly, providing extra TLC that made Mom’s week a little more special; also to the ministry team from Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, and all the staff of Willow Shore.

Cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Monday in St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, Musquodoboit Harbour, Father Toochukwu Okafor officiating. Interment will follow in Mines Road Cemetery. A reception will be held in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in Claire’s memory may be made to St. Philip Neri Catholic Church or Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation.

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

Davis, Kyle Douglas

Davis, Kyle Douglas – Age 19, of Coldstream, died suddenly on May 22, 2016, as the result of a motor vehicle accident. Born in Halifax, he was a son of Darrell and Charlene (Watson) Davis, Coldstream. Kyle enjoyed spending time with his friends attending car shows, four-wheeling, playing in the mud in the woods with the boys, playing his beloved Xbox, and family times in Bridgewater. In 2014, he graduated from South Colchester Academy where he enjoyed attending school and being with his friends.

Kyle will always be loved and missed by his parents; sister, Cassidy (Matt); maternal grandparents, Doug and Susie Watson; paternal grandfather, Steve Sullivan; many aunts, uncles and cousins; special friends, Hazen, Jon, Brandon. He was predeceased by paternal grandparents, Bernard and Brenda “Nanny Brat” Davis.

Cremation has taken place. Everyone is welcome to attend a funeral service on Saturday at 1 p.m. in St. Andrew’s United Church, Stewiacke, Rev. David LeBlanc officiating. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, East Stewiacke. Memorial donations may be made to South Colchester Academy – Safe Grad – Kyle Davis.

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

You’ll always be loved and missed, Buddy.

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.