Kennedy, Arlen “Bub” Lee - It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Arlen "Bub" Lee Kennedy on September 1, 2024, in Halifax Infirmary with his adoring family by his side.
Born in 1954, his life, spanning nearly 70 years, was a testament to love for his family, and dedication to the Stewiacke Valley. Born to David and Carmitta, Arlen grew up on the family farm, and had many cherished memories from those years with his siblings, cousins, and friends.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Amie; loving step-son, Sam; and his cherished brother, Stephen. Despite these profound losses, along with the many struggles that he faced with his health, Arlen continued to be his warm, approachable, and humorous self right until the end.
Arlen leaves behind with broken hearts his wife, Nancy (MacDonald); his children, Bobby, Kelly (Marc), Ryan; and granddaughters whom he treasured, Sophie and Renée; step-children, Amy (Matt), Eric (Amanda), Josh (McKenzie); grandchildren, Emma, Bailey, Alyvia, Lily, Taylor, Bella, Eric, Lucas, and Brooks, who all held a truly special place in his heart. A caring brother, Arlen is survived by Don (Kathy), Larry (Lynn), Ardith (Grant), Janet (Gary), and Maxine (Frank). His extended family includes many nieces and nephews, along with countless friends who were like family to him. Arlen also shared a wonderful friendship with the mother of his children, Debbie. He greatly enjoyed family gatherings where we could all be together to share loud laughs, good food, and make memories.
Arlen spent the majority of his career in lumber sales, where his charisma and work ethic shone brightly. The connections he made through his career are too vast to name, proven too many times by the fact that no matter where you went Arlen always found someone that he knew and had to stop to chat “just for a few minutes” (which inevitably turned into MUCH longer!)
Arlen was an incredibly proud member of the Upper Stewiacke Volunteer Fire Brigade, where he served his community with pride and deep commitment. He served as treasurer for many years, and you could often find him tending bar at a dance or function, directing traffic during fire or medical calls, and always running the hoop toss booth at the annual Fireman’s picnic.
The Stewiacke Valley held a special place in Arlen's heart. It was there that he found peace and joy, in the shade of the whip handle trees that he loved. The valley was rooted as deeply in his heart, as he was to the valley itself.
Arlen's funeral service will be held in Upper Stewiacke Fire Hall, Thursday, September 5, 2024 with visitation from 1:00-2:45 p.m. followed by a service at 3:00 p.m.
Arlen will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his community, his infectious zest for life, and his incredible resolve to keep going no matter what obstacles he faced. He didn’t let anything stop him, and you would never hear him complain. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. He recently shared with us a quote that really seemed to resonate with him “He lies in the valley he loved” - and now you will rest there for eternity.
You are deeply loved and will never be forgotten.
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