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Glace Bay, NS February, 11, 2025 We regret to announce the passing of Fabian Cecil Brushett. Born in Glace Bay in 1934. He was the son of John and Veronica Brushett. In the game of life, Fabe hit it out of the park. He met the love of his life when he was seventeen years old and married in 1957, they shared their life together in the home he built for his family until his passing. He had the opportunity to see multiple generations. He mastered his trade as a Carpenter/Cabinet Maker and was well respected in his field. Fabe was known for his great attention to detail and professional workmanship. He worked for Manning MacInnis, Ron MacDonald and finished his career with the Cape Breton Victoria Regional School Board. He was a loving, caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many in his lifetime. Fabe’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family who all remained close to home. He is survived by his wife Cassie Burt of 67 years. Two sons Kevin (Colleen), and Bradley (Colleen); two daughters Linda Thompson (Graham), Sheila Butts (Johnny); brothers Frank Brushett (Catherine), Danny Brushett (Eileen); sisters-in-law Harriet Brushett and Theresa Brushett. Grandchildren Blair Morrison (David), Laura Lee Morrison (Pikie), Taylor Brushett (Erika), Jordan Brushett (Aimée), Jarret Butts, Chad Butts, Emily Wilcox (Drew); great- grandchildren Blake Burke, Brody Burke, Jack Morrison-Brenna, Cassie Lee MacDonald, Allie Jae Butts, Easton Wilcox and numerous nieces and nephews. Fabe was predeceased by brothers John (Bonnie), Collie, Charlie, and sisters Marg (Johnny Madden / Willie Gillard), Shirley (Archie MacLellan), Jean (Don Mitchell). Visitation will be held Friday, February 14, 2025, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at T. J. Tracey Funeral Home, 370 Reserve St, Glace Bay. 902-849-4199. Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. with Father Norman MacPhee presiding, with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Parkinson’s Society of Nova Scotia or Charity of one’s choice. The family are deeply grateful for the amazing caregivers Jeanne, Annette, Jen, Barbs and Judy for the love and support shown to Fabe and the entire family. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Carol Boutilier, Palliative Care Unit Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Dr. Andrew Giorno, Linda Murphy RN, Dr. Arlene Kelly/Wiggins, EHS Paramedics for the amazing care provided. The family would also like to thank Fabe and Cassie’s wonderful neighbors Weldon and Darlene England for always looking out for them. Wherever you are you will always be in our hearts.

Sydney Mines, NS February 05, 1931 - February 07, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Harold Bragg, age 94, on February 7, 2025, in the Northside Community Guest Home, just two days after celebrating his 94th birthday. Born in Sydney Mines on February 5, 1931, he was the son of the late Casper and Marcella (Reid) Bragg. Harold was born and raised on the Halfway Road and spent the majority of his life in the Sydney Mines area with his wife, Millie (MacLeod). Harold had four girls, Cindy (Richard Ranni), Sydney, Kimberley (Keith Swan), North Sydney, Wanda (Roger), Vancouver and Brenda, New Zealand. He was grateful for the many years he had with Lexi and Christie and was proud of them and all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Jessie (Brent) Beck, Mount Uniacke and Joan Hill, North Sydney and brother, Don (Jessie), Halifax. Harold was predeceased by his sisters, Thelma Pettipas and Sarah Dowling and brothers, Walt, Gordon “Gordie”, Raymond “Ray”, Cecil and Jack. Harold was employed as a Stevedore with Marine Atlantic and made many friends throughout his years there. Harold was a man full of vitality, adventure, and a deep love for life. He never saw aging as something that applied to him and remained active, vibrant, and always seeking new adventures. He spent winters skiing and summers swimming, believing in the importance of staying healthy and enjoying nature. His love for fresh, organic food was ahead of its time—he ate kale, seaweed, avocado, and fish long before they became trendy! Nature was the heart and soul of Harold’s life and there wasn’t a plant or tree in the woods that Dad couldn’t identify with ease and affection. Harold’s legendary ski trips to Cape Smokey were filled with excitement and mishaps, and everybody wanted to go! In his later years, Harold’s health began to decline, but Millie was determined to keep him at home for as long as possible. Kim shared a special bond with her father and never left his side, offering him unwavering care and support. The love and dedication from Cindy, Kim, and Millie ensured that Dad received the very best of care— their devotion to him was truly unmatched. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Sydney Memorial Chapel. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 12th at 2 pm in Sydney Memorial Chapel with Rev. Dana Feltmate officiating. Interment will take place in St. James Cemetery, Bras d’Or at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Northside Community Guest Home or the Cancer Centre at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Rest in Peace Dad. Your love for life, your family, and your adventures will always be with us. Harold will be greatly missed by all!

Lower Sackville, NS September 17, 1946 - February 09, 2025 It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of William Richard Matthews. Bill, to those who knew and loved him, left us on Sunday, February 9th at the age of 78 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was pre-deceased by his wife Gwyneth (Ferguson) and his parents, Al and Betty Matthews. He is fondly remembered with deep love and admiration by his brothers Malcolm (Sandra) and Jim (Judy), and sister Janet (Kelly). Bill’s greatest joy in life was his family, especially his nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Bill was born in Calgary, but his heart truly found a home in Nova Scotia, where he spent most of his life. He began his academic journey at St. Peter’s School in Dartmouth and later attended Saint Mary’s University in Halifax where he pursued his studies and met the love of his life, Gwyn. While at university, Bill proudly served in the Naval Reserve, rising to the rank of Sub-Lieutenant. After graduating, Bill found his calling as a high school math teacher, dedicating three and a half decades to students at QEH in Halifax. As the world around him evolved, Bill embraced change, expanding his expertise to include developing and teaching computer courses. He also took on the role of school Registrar, always with a passion for supporting both student and staff. Bill enjoyed exploring through travel. His time with the Canadian Navy opened his eyes to the world, and once he married Gwyn, they enjoyed opportunities to explore new places together. Their adventures took them to England, Newfoundland, and Florida, where they created wonderful memories. More recently he enjoyed traveling with his brother Malcolm and sister-in-law Sandra. At home, Bill and Gwyn opened their hearts and their home to countless feline friends over the years - each one becoming a beloved member of the family, living their best lives, lounging in the custom cat trees Bill crafted just for them. Bill’s interests were as varied as they were fulfilling. He spent many years in a weekly bowling league, an interest he shared with his mom. A lifelong reader with a love for all kinds of music, Bill’s curiosity never waned. In his retirement, taking after his dad, Bill discovered a true passion for wood working, crafting beautiful pieces that became treasured gifts for many. Many of Bill’s happiest memories were made at the family cottage on Porter’s Lake. He especially loved the time he spent working alongside his best friend, his father, on endless construction projects – hard work made lighter by laughter. In more recent years, Bill enjoyed spending holidays and special occasions at the home of his niece Christina and her husband Al, swapping stories over a rum and coke and Al’s good cooking. The family would like to extend thanks to the medical teams at the Infirmary and Victoria General sites of the QEII Health Sciences Centre for their care and kindness. A special thank you as well to Bill’s wonderful neighbours, whose generosity and unwavering support provided comfort to Bill and the family throughout Bill’s journey. Donations in Bill’s memory could be made to Dalhousie Cancer Research Institute or the Nova Scotia SPCA. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday April 19th, 2pm at Inn On The Lake, Fall River.

Canso, NS December 9, 1955 - February 7, 2025 It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of our precious brother, Captain John Allen Baker, age 69 who lost his life at sea February 7, 2025. John was born December 9, 1955, in Canso, Nova Scotia to Calvin Howard Baker and Virginia Margaret O'Hearn. Survived by his partner, Mary Misener, siblings, Marie Parker, Martha Rhynold, Theresa Cole (Darren Albert), Margaret Parker (John), Joan Baker, Dorothy Bennett (Darren), Ginny Boudreau (Jerome), Anthony Baker (Melissa), Doug Baker (Bev) and Helen Casey (Paul). John was pre-deceased by his parents, Calvin and Virginia (Tootsie), brother in laws, Terry Parker and Fred Rhynold and nephew Paul Parker. Having no biological children, we wish to acknowledge his commitment to his stepchildren, step-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He loved them all, would wrap them in a wonderful hug and generously shared all his resources (including free fish) with them. John's career and entire life was devoted to the Commercial Offshore Fishery. John was an avid NFL Football fan of New England Patriots, a voracious reader and a master at barbecuing (mostly rare) steak. John's career in fishing started in his late teens on the Offshore Draggers out of Canso. John found his passion and fell in love with fishing. He began Marine Training and was the youngest to achieve a Fishing Master Class 1 in Nova Scotia. One of John's proudest moments was when he became Captain of The Bedeque, an Offshore fishing trawler. This was the first of many vessels he captained over the years. A very large part of John's career was spent working with his life -long friend and employer, Willard Grover of Tor Bay. John went on to fish many commercial and experimental species. He worked passionately with Department of Fisheries and Oceans staff, scientists, and oceanographers to contribute to marine science that ensured the conservation and viability of the fishing resources. John was involved in every aspect of the fishing industry and spent time working on a Canadian Coast Guard research vessel. His knowledge of the ocean, the marine environment and the species that he fished was exemplary. The ocean was his home and fishing was his love. There is so much more about John that most will never know. He shared his talents, knowledge and passion with anyone who was interested and mentored many fishermen during his life. Visitation will be held Thursday, February 13, 1:00 - 7:00 pm in Dennis Haverstocks Funeral Home, Canso, Nova Scotia Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, February 14 at 1:00 p.m. in Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church, Canso, Nova Scotia. Memorial donations may be made to Seamen's Memorial Fund C/O Lions Club of Canso. Flowers are welcome.

Wolfville, NS September 23, 1948 - January 30, 2025 Dorothy Elizabeth (Allen) Page, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on January 30, 2025 from complications of dementia. She was 76. Born in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, on September 23, 1948, Dorothy's life was marked by love, creativity, and a devotion to her family. She was the daughter of the late Thomas Leslie Earle Allen and Hilda Irene (Whidden) Allen. Dorothy’s childhood was filled with cherished memories, particularly the summers spent with her sister at her grandparents’ cottage at Evangeline Beach, a place that held special significance throughout her life. It was at a dance at Evangeline Beach where Dorothy met the love of her life, Victor Joel Page Jr. They married on June 6, 1969 and built a beautiful life together. Highly creative, Dorothy loved art and music and expressed herself through writing, painting, and jewelry making. The Beatles were her favourite band, their music a constant soundtrack to her life. In her youth, she played the violin and was a member of the youth orchestra while living in Fredericton, NB. She also loved to sing, and in the 60s, she shared her beautiful voice with Joel at local concerts, dances, and events. For 15 years, Dorothy served her community as the owner and operator of the Wolfville Telephone Answering Service, connecting residents with police, fire, and emergency services. Later, she pursued her passion for antiques, opening Baubles Antiques out of her home on 11 Summer Street in Wolfville. The Queen of Antiques, Dorothy had a keen eye for hidden treasures, collecting knick-knacks, dolls, clothing, and jewelry. She never missed a local yard sale, flea market, or estate sale. Regulars at those events often commented "it wasn’t a flea market if Dorothy wasn’t there."  The heart of her home and family, Dorothy will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Joel; her children, Kristian Earle Page (Julie Whitney) and Margaret Page (Charles T. Conrad); her grandson, Mugen Page, and her step-grandchildren Mary and Charles Conrad; her sisters, Margaret (Allen) Robertson (Jamie Robertson) and Barbara Allen; and her extended family and friends.  In keeping with Dorothy’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dorothy's name to an Alzheimer's/Dementia charity, cancer foundation, or the Valley Regional Hospital.

Whitney Pier, NS February 3, 2025 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Bertha Theresa Raoul, on February 3, 2025 at the age of 95. She left behind a legacy of caring, supporting and loving for the wide variety of folks who crossed her path on this earth. Her final years at the Harbourstone Guest Home allowed her well deserved rest and reflection following a lifetime of service to others. The family would like to express special thanks to the wonderful staff of Kimberly Hall, especially Mira Bay, who provided kindness and care during Bertha's final years. Bertha (Costello), was one of 14 children born to James and Blanche Costello (Mollon) and she was raised in Whitney Pier. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 40 years, Mike, a well known local building contractor who passed away in 1989 at the young age of 60. She raised 4 children: Michael (Mary), Denise (Deceased), Dianne, and Terry (Valerie). She leaves behind one grandson, Michael Raoul and six granddaughters; Jennifer, Lisa and Kim in Ottawa, Michelle Raoul-Winters - Halifax, Renee Doidge (Marlon) - Alberta and Julia Hardy - Halifax. Great grandchildren include Ryker Watt and Kaia Watt of Ottawa, Sunshine Campbell of Sydney and Marshall Winters of Halifax. Siblings surviving Bertha include Eileen (Mike MacKinnon), Nellie (Jim MacIsaac), Kevin (Linda), John (Mena), Donald (Jane Marie). She was predeceased by three sisters; Katheen (Frank Hennick) Shirley RN (Buck Muldoon) Doris (Mike MacNeil) and five brothers Bill (Edna), Cyril (Madeline), Gordon (Dorothy), Gary (Karen) and Jim (Joan). As children of Bertha in the early years, we would often see our mother punching down big pans of dough for bread as we begged her to flatten a few patties to be fried into what we called "flapjacks" - which were eaten slathered in Crosby's molasses. Then there was tending to diaper buckets (no Pampers), loading coal into the furnace and cook stove and covering the floor with newspapers after scrubbing it on her knees. From time to time it was her turn to host "Club" when her lady friends would arrive to play cards, eat sandwiches with the crusts removed and test fresh made baked sweets while laughing freely. She was a charter member of the St Theresa's parish Catholic Women's League where she served for many years to benefit her friends and community neighbours. She often worked in the old St Theresa's hall serving banquets and attending meetings. Bertha also coordinated the UNICEF Hallowe'en program in the Sydney area. In addition, she was secretary and bookkeeper for our father's construction business. Our mother is also well known to anybody who passed through Girl Guides in the Sydney area. She was deeply involved with the Brownie, Guide and Ranger programs and left her mark on many successful young women. She received the prestigious Mayflower Award, the highest provincial award from the Girl Guides of Canada. She rose to the rank of area commissioner for the Cape Breton East district. As well, she received the Volunteer of the Year Award for the city of Sydney in 1987. She was presented with this award in Halifax by then Lieutenant Governor, Stan Abraham. Bertha was also very active in the social community as a regular with the folks who enjoyed playing Bridge. She was also well known in the local bowling league as attested by the many trophies that adorned our window sills and piano top. Mom and Dad could often be seen participating in regular season curling events as well as a variety of spiels at the local curling club. A fitness enthusiast all her life, she enjoyed yoga and was very active in skating sessions at the Sydney Forum, Centre 200 and Dominion rinks where she would be seen gliding to the tunes with a variety of gentlemen on her arm trying to keep up ... she was rarely seen warming the benches. In her later years she vigorously walked the Sydney boardwalk or the popular Dominion beach. She lived her adult life until the age of 93 on Lisgard Street in the home built for her by her loving husband, Mike. In her later years she was supported by her children and, in particular, her longtime companion, Rudy Plichie, who dropped in most days to visit and called late at night to make sure all was in order before she retired for the night. Rudy was her rock, best friend and companion for many years. They often danced away the evening at a variety of senior venues in the Cape Breton area. She was not one to talk much about herself, however, at the annual "Costello" party in Big Pond, surrounded by family she loved and trusted, she could be convinced to reveal tales of her younger years growing up in Whitney Pier. When the early boisterous time of the party had subsided to quiet reflection, her memory would come alive and her eyes would sparkle. Family would gather close around her chair of honour to listen to tales of delivering bread, runaway horses and the happy times of courting with our father. Bertha was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She made this world a better place for many. Visitation will take place at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, Sydney on Thursday, Feb. 6 from 7-9 pm and Friday, Feb. 7 from 2-4 & 7-9. Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, Feb. 8 at St. Theresa Church, 381 Whitney Ave., with Fr. Evo Di'Pierro officiating. Internment to take place in Resurrection Cemetery at a later date. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting twcurry.com . May she rest in peace.

Halifax, NS March 22, 1943 – January 31, 2025 Doug was born and raised in Shoal Lake, MB to parents Douglas and Lydia Stone (nee Robinson). Doug never met his father who was a flight engineer on a Lancaster bomber and killed in action in WWII in 1943. Thus, Doug was raised by his mother, Lydia, his supportive grandparents, Will and Gertrude Stone, and uncles, Peter and Charlie Robinson. He has many fond memories of growing up in Shoal Lake, playing hockey, fishing, hunting, working as a mechanic at (Jack) Schust Motors, helping on his uncles’ farms and driving vintage cars. He had a dog appropriately named Buddy. Doug attended the University of Manitoba where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Engineering in 1965 specializing in mechanical engineering. He was the first person in his family to obtain a university degree. After university, Doug moved to Calgary to work in the oil industry where he met the love of his life and wife of 57 years, Sandra (nee Geldart). They were married in Calgary in 1967 and soon thereafter, Doug and Sandy moved to Brandon, where Doug worked for Simplot and welcomed their first child, David into the world. In 1970, they moved to Thunder Bay so that Doug could take a position with Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, where he worked as an engineer for over 15 years. They soon welcomed their second son, Andrew, and three years later, their third son, Jamie. After Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, Doug worked as a consulting engineer, a professor at Lakehead University, and an Industrial Technology Advisor for the National Research Council, retiring in 2006. He was an active member of the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario and the Industrial Accident Prevention Association. Doug and Sandra dedicated their lives to raising their family in Thunder Bay, with their children playing numerous sports, enjoying many camping trips to Quetico and Sibley Provincial Parks, cross country skiing at Kamview and many road trips with the tent trailer all over Canada and the United States. Doug was an active volunteer in Scouts Canada and his boys’ baseball and hockey teams. In an attempt to keep up with his boys, Doug taught himself to downhill ski at Loch Lomond around the age of 40. He would however never acquire a taste for their musical preference, remaining a lifelong fan of country music. Doug maintained a passion for Canadian and British history as well as researching his family ancestry, compiling a fantastic resource for future generations. After their sons had left Thunder Bay for university and later, for work, Doug and Sandy finally had the time to travel to various destinations in Europe, to Hawaii, and to Florida in between numerous trips to and visits from their children and grandchildren in Halifax and New Jersey. They moved to Halifax in 2012 to be closer to family and they have enjoyed their new adventure in Nova Scotia and the many new people they have met. Doug is predeceased by his father, Douglas, his mother, Lydia, and his son, Jamie, and is survived by his wife Sandra, sons, David (Sue) and Andy (Heather), grandchildren, Amanda, Matthew, Ryan, Alexander, and Gabriella. The family is grateful for the care provided to Doug by the staff at Drummond Hall in Parkland and DePaul Hall in Caritas long-term care facilities in Halifax. His family will hold a private celebration of life later this year. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider donating to Parkinson Canada in his memory.

Truro, NS  February 01, 2025 Gladys Louise Otterson – 92, Truro, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Glen Haven Manor, New Glasgow. Born in Belmont, she was a daughter of the late Orville and Mary (Lindsay) Otterson. Gladys worked for many years in the office at Wilson’s Fuel. She loved golfing and enjoyed skiing, and following her retirement, she volunteered at Colchester Historical Museum and travelled all over the world. Gladys is survived by her siblings, Grace (Ben) Boyd, Bible Hill; Orville Otterson, Crowes Mills; Lyle "Sam" Otterson, Belmont; Jean Pierce, Bible Hill; Hal Otterson, Crowes Mills; many nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Irene Otterson; brother-in-law, David Pierce. Private graveside interment will be held in Crossroads Cemetery, 596 Belmont Road, at a later date. If so desired, donations in Gladys’ memory to Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia are welcomed.

White Rock, NS January 30, 2025 Mink lived his life to the fullest, right to the last moment, which came far too soon. It is with incredible shock and sadness that we announce the passing of Mark "Mink" DiCarlo on January 30, 2025 of White Rock, Nova Scotia with his wife Peggy by his side. Mark died as a result of a massive heart attack, at the age of 65. Born in Guelph, where friends and family still abound, he and Peg moved to Nova Scotia in 2019 to live in the country and discover new adventures. His many friends and family were welcomed with open arms at their rural home. A new chapter of Mink’s life had just begun with his retirement only one month before his passing. He was excited to be the best house husband ever, get six pack abs, help build a new home and vacation in warmer climates. Mink understood and valued the importance of relationships. He adored Peggy, his wife and best friend of 28 years. He cherished his daughter, Joy, and loved his family and the large community of friends he collected and held dear over his lifetime. For over 30 years Mink could be found Thursday nights in his ‘shed’ with the Goons. It was often said that the party did not start until Mink arrived! Mink had a way of making people feel special, whether you met him once or knew him for decades. He had a knack for bringing people together from all walks of life. Mink lived for volleyball, specifically beach volleyball. He cherished his teammates and lifelong friends and the escapades they had together at camps and tournaments. He was always game to play tennis. Ever the athlete, he built an outdoor fitness course in the woods on their property. And did he ever love wood! He was passionate about chopping wood, stacking wood, talking about wood and working out in the woods. His tender heart endeared him to many furry creatures and especially Old English Sheepdogs and the community of human friends who came along with them. Several dogs shared their home over the years, including their newest pup Ron who quickly bonded with Mink and would curl his 100-pound body on Mink’s lap. Mink was a proud and loving father to his daughter Joy DiCarlo and her partner Neil Garby. He was a dearly loved brother to his siblings Brad and wife Jeanetta DiCarlo; Marti Valeriote; Chris and wife Linda DiCarlo. Fun uncle to nieces and nephews Sara, Amy, Nate, Wes, Alex, Jeremy and Matt. He also leaves behind his father-in-law and good buddy Cyril Bonnar; his sister-in-law Liz Bonnar; brother-in-law John Bonnar; a few precious aunts and uncles, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by parents, Ernie and Marge DiCarlo, and brother-in-law Larry Valeriote. Funeral services will be held on Friday February 14, 2025 at 3:00 pm AST at the White Family Funeral Home in Kentville, Nova Scotia. The service will be live streamed and recorded. A Celebration of a Life Well Lived will be held at the Victoria East Golf Course in Guelph, Ontario on April 12, 2025 at 1:00pm EDT. Both gatherings will have ASL/English interpreters present. If you wish to honour Mink’s big heart and passion for life, we invite you to donate in his memory to Guelph Community Health Centre or L’ Arche Homefires in Wolfville, NS. May Mink’s legacy inspire you to spread kindness and friendship the way he did.

Upper Northfield, NS January 28th, 2025 Greg Harold Lohnes, of Upper Northfield, passed away on January 28th, 2025 in South Shore Regional Hospital at the age of 68. Born in Upper Northfield, he was a son of the late Perry and "Pauline" (Whynot) Lohnes. Greg was a self employed plumber and made his "bread and butter" by doing what he loved- working and helping out so many people, many of whom became good friends. He is survived by his partner Barri Zinck; son David (Helen Bush); grandchildren Tessa and Tarri; brother Brian, and nieces and nephews; parents in-law Jim and Carol Zinck; brother in-law Todd (Stacy). He also leaves behind 2 dogs, Stewart and Bradley and 2 cats, Chester and Freckles. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brother Ken. A celebration of life will be held from 12-4pm on Saturday February 8th, 2025 at the Upper Northfield Community Hall.  A private family interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SHAID . Greg’s family would like to thank VON and Palliative Care for their care and compassion.

Abercrombie, NS January 13, 1936 - January 30, 2025 Rev. David Laughlin MacLean, of Abercrombie, January 13, 1936 - January 30, 2025. Sixty-five years to the day after David Laughlin MacLean of Abercrombie, Pictou County became father to the first of his four children, he drew his last breath. Left to mourn are his wife of nearly 67 years, Catherine (Reid); his children and their spouses, Philip (Pauline), Donna Tourneur (Charlie), Carl (Rosanne) and Ann Simms (Chris); his grandsons, Graham and Andrew Tourneur, Shawn Simms and Simon MacLean; his great-grandchildren, Sebastien, Kaitlyn and Jade Tourneur; and step-grandchildren, Charles and Bryan Tourneur and Laurie Johnston; as well as 9 step great-grandchildren.   Dave was loved and respected by many nieces and nephews and by his in-laws, Evelyn MacLean, Alice Hewitt, Helen Cruickshank, Mary and Gerald Romsa, and Ruth Douglas. The family is deeply grateful to Caroline Tushabe for the impeccable care she has provided in his home for the past five months and to Carol MacKenzie who has supported Dave and Catherine since their move back to Pictou County. These women feel like family. David was a son of the late Robert and Ada (MacKenzie) MacLean and spent his childhood on the century farm in Churchville. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his older brother and life- long hero, Donnie, and his sister, Jean, who died in childhood. He was also predeceased by parents-in-law, John and Sadie Reid, as well as sister and brothers-in-law: Robert and Isabel Archibald, Jim Hewitt, Glenn Cruickshank and Albert Douglas. David was a life-long learner, always happy with a book in his hand. During a full and successful career with the Royal Bank of Canada, serving in Lawrencetown, Annapolis Royal, Halifax (twice), Parrsboro, Inverness (twice), Maitland, Elmsdale, Whitney Pier and ending in Burnside, he became a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers. He continued post-secondary education on a part-time basis and earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University College of Cape Breton and a Master of Divinity from the Atlantic School of Theology. At age 59, Dave was ordained in the United Church of Canada and served the Rawdon Pastoral Charge, Knox in Glace Bay, Gordon in Reserve Mines and in various capacities even since retirement with Catherine by his side at every turn in the road of life.  David and Catherine were deeply involved in United Churches in every community in which they lived as well as community and service clubs, and 4-H while there were kids at home.   David was smart, kind and charitable. He was a great family provider and supported his children in all their endeavors with pride and common sense. We used to say that when he was in the bank, he helped people with their personal lives and in ministry he helped people with finances. He was trusted and loyal in both professions and he will be missed deeply by family and friends alike.   The MacLean family enjoyed numerous trips across the continent, but nothing was more relaxing than weekends at the cottage at Point 44, a place that continued to provide joy until the end.  His life and faith will be celebrated at Trinity United Church, New Glasgow, under the leadership of his AST classmate and friend, The Rev. Meredith Fraser, on Sunday, February 2nd at 1pm. The service will be livestreamed on Trinity’s Facebook and YouTube: https://www.facebook.com/events/970503317934312 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqnHkanx_BY Family flowers only please. The burial will be held when the weather is more reasonable.  David was clear that donations in his memory should be made to United Church Mission and Service. The church administrator at Trinity can help with those who wish to do this.

Halifax, NS January 26, 2025 It is with profound sadness that the family of Neil J Connors of Halifax announce his passing on January 26, 2025, at the age of 81 after a courageous battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully at home with his family close by. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Gloria, children; Darin (Monica),Tim (Jennifer) and grandchildren: Zaria, Zoe, Zackary, Daniel, and Sabrina; brother, Ron Connors, sister, Carol (Murray) Findlay, and a host of extended family and dear friends who enriched his life in countless ways. Neil was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Gillian; sister Sharon (Al) Riggs, and parents Neil and Geraldine Connors. Neil was a life member of Armdale Yacht Club and a member of the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron. His passion for boating brought him immense joy, especially when he could share it with family and friends. Over the years, Neil's boats became the backdrop to countless celebrations and unforgettable moments that will be cherished by all who joined him aboard. He especially enjoyed his numerous voyages to Florida with his closest friend, Jim Corbett. Neil began his career at and early age in the Royal Canadian Navy serving 25 years, dedicating most of his service to the Clearance Diver Division. After his military career, Neil's passion for marine salvage and repair led him to join Atlantic Salvage before founding Connors Diving Services, a company he led with pride and integrity for 50 years alongside his trusted colleagues Jim Smith and Derek King. Neil also volunteered his time with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary in Halifax for over 20 years. He relished spirited games of cribbage, especially with his brothers-in-law, David and Greg Woodill. Even during his final weeks, Neil's sense of humor and competitive spirit shone through, as he continued to enjoy these moments. Neil had a soft spot for animals, particularly his dogs, who were constant companions and a source of comfort throughout his life including his most recent companion, an English Setter named Piper. Neil leaves behind a legacy that will be long remembered and deeply missed. Cremation has taken place and there will be a private burial service. A celebration of life will take place at the Armdale Yacht Club on March 22, 2025 at 2:00 pm. The family thanks all those who have shared in our sorrow and offered your support at this time. Your care is appreciated and will be remembered. A special thanks and appreciation for Dr. K. Sutherland, the Palliative Care Unit, Continuing Care and VON of Halifax for their exemplary support and care for Neil. Memorials may be made to the IWK or the foundation of your choice.