Liverpool, NS / Dryden, Ontario July 27, 1955 - March 11, 2025 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Virginia “Gini” Nickerson on March 11, 2025, with family and friends by her side. Gini is survived by her children Dan Jonassen of Dryden, ON, Scott (Oaklynn) Jonassen of Atikokan, ON, and Kayla (David) Keffer of Dryden, ON, and grandchildren Brody and Brynlee, Leland, Heidi, Kane, Paisley, Blythe and Aria, and Jessi and Mason. She is also survived by her siblings Shirley Burris (Phil Wallace) of Bridgewater, NS, Thomas Nickerson of Lower Sackville, NS, David Nickerson of Liverpool, NS, and nephews Mike Muise, Joe (Bonnie) Muise, Ivan (Jennifer) Nickerson, Mitchell Nickerson, along with many extended relatives. Gini is predeceased by her parents Arthur and Barbara Nickerson, and sister-in-law Evelyn Nickerson. Gini was a “down home” girl. She was born in Liverpool, NS but grew up not far from there in a tiny village called Brooklyn, Queens County. She often told stories of her childhood and all the antics she and her siblings would get into. She worked there at the Liverpool Advance newspaper office and loved her job. When she was in her twenties, she left home and went as far west as she could. She ended up in Prince Rupert, BC where she started her career as a realtor, then worked as a printer for the newspaper. It was there she had children Dan, Scott and Kayla. Three years later they moved to Dryden to be closer to family. After some time, Gini decided it was time to go back to Nova Scotia, so, she and the kids packed up to go and stay with Grammy. This is where her heart was happiest. After some years Gini had an opportunity in Red Lake, ON and she took it! She worked with MNR Fire for many years. Her fondest memories were out in the camps with the crews. After that, she worked at the Red Lake Hospital for many years, as an executive assistant, where she coded her own program. She was so very proud of that! She also started her own business called CompuQuick, which was a printing service in her home office. She was a brilliant woman! When she wanted something she went after it with passion! She started her own Health and Safety business which brought her to Australia and England and Wales, and fed into her love for travel. Eventually grandkids started coming and she wanted to be close so as to watch them grow up. She settled back in Dryden and opened Square One Printware, which was a silk screening and embroidery business. She had no experience with embroidery but was determined to learn and had a very successful business. Eventually, her health started to become an issue, and she couldn’t do the long hours nor hard labour anymore, so she approached Mallon’s Promotional Wear in Thunder Bay, and convinced them it was a good idea to open a satellite office in Dryden, which she ran for 10 years. In October, her health declined, and she was in the hospital – but she did not stop working. She loved her job so much, she tried to keep up. Eventually it was overwhelming, and her health needed to be forefront. Gini was a fighter. Every time life knocked her down, she got back up swinging! Even the staff at the hospital couldn’t believe it. She was a tiny warrior. She taught us all that if you wanted something badly enough, you had to go after it and not stop until you got it. Hard work was so important to her as you don’t get anything for free. She also told us that we need to rest when life gets tough. Her calm and restful space was when she was crafting. She loved to paint pour on everything! Gini and Kayla would always go to the craft stores when they were on medical trips and come home with a car load. They would talk about all the things they could create, and plan for the next craft market. She bought a house just for the large, heated garage, so that she could turn it into her craft oasis. Last summer she was able to take her good friend, Linda, to Nova Scotia for two weeks and spend quality time with her siblings and nephews. As weak as she was, she was able to go places and truly enjoy the sights one last time. In her last week she was able to have her beloved cat, Goldie Hawn, with her. Goldie was by her side until the end. That cat was everything to her. Goldie brought her great company and a reason to keep going. Gini’s family would like to thank Dr. Joseph del Paggio from TBRHSC for his dedication and compassion through her journey. A very special thanks to good friends Judy, Linda, Mary and Amanda for being there for Gini constantly! The time you spent and the care you showed her was really special. She was so thankful and proud to have surrounded herself with such awesome people. I’m sure she is still so proud as you continue to support her family now. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 1 p.m. at The Centre with Pastor Velma Henderson officiating. As per Gini’s wishes, her family will bring her back home to Liverpool, NS to be interred with her parents and grandparents. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kenora Cat Shelter , 725 Railway Street, Kenora, ON P9N 1A4.

Eastern Passage, NS May 8, 1967 - March 24, 2025 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter John Boutilier in the Dartmouth General Hospital surrounded by family on March 24th, 2025. Peter was born on May 8th, 1967, Halifax to the late Janet Shaw and Barry Boutilier.  At the age of 9, he was blessed with his Stepfather Dave entering his life. When Peter was 12 his family moved to Alberta, taking only what they could fit into a car, along with themselves and their budgie bird. The budgie bird was in its cage on its perch swinging back and forth the whole time. When they arrived at their hotel room the budgie bird was so disoriented, the poor thing fell off its perch, Peter loved telling that story. Peter was the type of person who would give or do anything for his family, birth and chosen. He was the epitome of “Give you the shirt off his back.” He loved to work with his Stepfather Dave, doing odd construction jobs. He had real admiration for him and told family and friends how much he loved his dad. Peter was always the first to be with his God children, every Softball game, every Hockey game, every first day of school, every sickness. He was the constant. Peter always said he need to be there for the kids, even if it meant Henry had to drive in his pajamas. Henry for 31 years was the love of his life. They spent many days’ tripping around the Maritimes. Exploring places that they’ve only ever heard about and going to many favourite places like Henry’s home in Shelburne, or to PEI and everywhere in between. Peter loved music, Disney, TY Beanie Babies and Natal Day’s spent at Meme’s. He was always up for coffee at A&W Woodside, or a late-night game of cards with the crew at the Dub (which it became after dark.) He became very good friends with many people he met there as well as many employees, Including the Manager Scott Jordan and his children Jason, Nicholas and Dalton. Peter is survived by his partner in love and life, Henry Blades. Best friend & Mother of his God Children Marcy Lecky. His Godchildren Taylor Lecky, Stephen Nickerson and Emma Nickerson. His Best Meme, Marlene Lecky, Dad; Dave (Beth) Shaw; Lorne (Sandra) Boutilier; Michael(Donna) Boutilier; Darlene Arsenault; Kim and Christinia as well as many Aunts, Uncles, nieces and nephews and friends. Peter was predeceased by his Mother Janet Shaw, Brother Barry Boutilier, and friend William(Bill) Lecky. A huge thank you to the dedicated Doctors, Nurses and care workers of Dartmouth General Hospital 5 East and West where Peter was cared for with so much love and respect. Cremation has taken place; a celebration of life will be held at Legion Branch 164 – 1341 Main Road Eastern Passage Saturday April 5th 6-9 pm.

Brookfield, NS March 7, 2025 Marion Melba (Beatty) Guptill – 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Elk Court, Brookfield. Marion was a daughter of the late Perry and Gladys (Keddy) Beatty of Hortonville. Marion is survived by her loving daughter, Brenda (David Mingo), Truro; brother, George, Kings County; and cherished granddaughter, Georgia Mingo, Truro; several nieces, nephews and in-laws. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Clyde "Dick" Guptill; brother, Laurie Beatty. Mom was educated at the Grand Pre School House and Mack’s Business College, Wolfville, where her love of education thrived. After business school, Mom worked for many years at Acadia Dairy, Wolfville where she met and later married a young and jovial, Clyde Guptill. Married life and motherhood thrived in Lockhartville where Brenda was born and Mom and Dad instilled the importance of helping others, serving the community and education. Mom was member of Lockhartville Baptist Church where she served as Deacon, Finance Clerk, Choir member and "Queen of the church supper". Mom would always lend a hand in any yard sale, hymn sing or Christmas tea. Many a tea sandwich was made. Mom and Dad always had time for helping others with a broken down car, bicycle repair or an empty plate. Both were up for a sympathetic ear, a friendly debate on politics or a drive to an appointment asking for nothing in return. It’s what you do for others – this was their endearing quality. After Clyde’s passing, Mom moved to Truro with Brenda and her family. Eventually living at Elk Court where the incredible care allowed Mom’s later years to be happy and safe. Brenda, David and Georgia wish to thank the staff of Today’s Nurse, Elk Court and Dr. Karla Armsworthy for everything they did for Mom over the last years. At a later date there will be a private family graveside service and Mom and Dad will be laid to rest together at Lower Horton Cemetery, Grand Pre. If so desired, donations in memory of Marion to your local food bank or SPCA are welcomed.

Dartmouth, NS February 24, 1955 - March 20, 2025 Calvin Arthur Danells (Cal) 70 of Dartmouth, NS, passed away on March 20th 2025 at the Dartmouth General Hospital after a brief illness. Cal was born in Saint John, New Brunswick to the late Edward and Martha Danells. He is predeceased by his sisters Ruby, Lou, Ann and Dawn and brothers Chuck, Fred, Paul and Bill. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Marilyn, children, Faye, Canne, Scott (Kjay) and Grace (Jordan), 10 grandchildren, Austin, Jay, Oliver, Wilfred, Hugo, Riley, Ethan, Haydn, Ruby and Harper, his sister, Lynn (Donnie), many nieces and nephews and his dog, Lily. Cal was a proud veteran and a motorcycle enthusiast. He travelled all over the world on various ships in his Navy days. He retired after 30 years as a Naval Weapons Tech in the Royal Canadian Navy. He then enjoyed travelling all over North America on his bike with Marilyn and friends in his retirement. He was known to ride 200km just for lunch. He loved working on his bike and helping out friends with their Gold Wings in his garage. He later bought and restored the first motorcycle he ever drove at the age of 13 and entered it in local shows. Cal did not do anything half heartedly. He gave his all in everything he did, whether it was helping out a friend, projects around the house or being there for his family. He enjoyed his Friday nights bowling, Monday nights entertaining at Kick Tire in his garage and trips to the Fall River Tim Horton’s to have a tea and see biker friends. His children would often call him with questions about cars, plumbing, electrical, or renovations and he seemed to always have an answer to the problem. He would show up at our front door with a tool box and a smile, happy to help. He was a strong and determined man who cared deeply for the friends and family in his life. Cal gave the best hugs, had the biggest heart and was a professional story teller (whether they were true or slightly embellished). He will be immensely missed by all that knew him. Special thanks to Seb who carries on Cal’s legacy through his love of motorcycles. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 6th from 12pm-4pm at ANAVETS, 137 Main Street, Dartmouth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Cal to the Rolling Barrage. https://therollingbarrage.com/donate/

Kentville, NS March 20, 2025 Sophia Patricia "Sophie" Bourke – age 79, of Kentville, passed away peacefully in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Born in Belleoram, NFLD, she was a daughter of the late Simeon and Selena Gould. Prior to retirement, Sophie worked in administration and tech support for Xerox and was also a certified nursing assistant. She and her first husband, William "Bill" Bourke moved to Florida in 1991. After Bill’s passing, Sophie met and married Kenneth Anderson, who also predeceased her. Sophie is survived by her sons, William Jr. "Billy" and Scott (Jessica); daughter, Carol Bourke; brother, Michael Gould; sister, Marie (Ted) Hornick; grandchildren, Matthew, William, Holland, Jeffrey and Hanna; as well as several nieces, nephews and close friends who she considered family. In addition to her husbands, she was predeceased by her parents and brother, Phillip Gould. Special thanks to Dr. Michael Keough, Dr. Gina MacDonald and the wonderful nursing staff of Day Surgery Care extension for their exceptional care and compassion. In keeping with Sophie’s wishes there will be no visitation. A public graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 27 at 11:00 a.m. in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, 585 Sackville Drive, Lower Sackville. For those unable to attend, a video webcast of the service will be available online by Friday, March 28. Donations in memory may be made to the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation or the Kings County SPCA.

Kentville, NS August 31, 1953 - March 19, 2025 It is with sadness of heart that we announce the passing of our cherished mother, grandmother, and sister, Valrie Darlene (MacDougall) Morris, who passed away on March 19th, 2025 surrounded by her family. She was born in Windsor, NS on August 31st, 1953 to the late John and Audrey (MacLeod) MacDougall. Valrie was an incredible mother and wife who cared for her family deeply. She was a kind soul that was exceptionally creative and could make, sew, bake, grow, paint, or build anything. She worked as a waitress at the Big Stop in New Minas for many years before retiring. In her later years, she loved music and dancing. Valrie is survived by her daughters, Natasha (Sydney, NS) and Lynette (Centreville, NS), her adored granddaughter, Irelyn, as well as her siblings Dallas Moore, Laura (Kirk) Newhook, Stuart, Cindy Kerr, Susie (Nick) Meyer, Carolyn (Al) Houston, her lifelong friend Mary (David) Robarts, and her many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Valrie was also predeceased by her husband George and her beloved mother-in-law, Patricia Caldwell. Special thanks to the staff and residents at Orchard Court (Shannex) in Kentville where she resided in her final years and where she danced her way into the hearts of the caring staff whom she loved deeply. To honor our mother’s wishes, there will be no formal visitation or service. “I Hope You Dance” – Lee Ann Womack

New Glasgow, NS March 20, 2025 Audrey Forrest, age 82, of New Glasgow, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025 in the Aberdeen Hospital. Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, she was a daughter of the late David and Letitia Campbell. She served in the British Army and worked for the British Civil Service. She emigrated from Northern Ireland in September 1977 and moved to Nova Scotia in 1981. She worked as a delivery person for the Evening News and Chronicle Herald. She was a passionate member of the New Glasgow Duplicate Bridge Club for 40 years and was a life master. She loved playing in the Dart League at the Michelin Social Club. She is survived by daughters: Elizabeth and Christine (Ed); grandchildren: Tami, Logan, Blaise, Morgan and Reagan; great-grandchildren: Sam, Jayce, Owen, Mya, Cash and Pepper. She was predecessed by her husband, Martin; granddaughter, Toni. Special thank you to all of the staff and members of the VON Adult Day Program which brought her great joy this past year. Visitation 2-4pm Monday, March 24, in R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Burial in Holy Cross Cemetery. Donations in her memory may be made to the VON Adult Day Program.

L'Ardoise, NS September 5, 1953 - March 16, 2025 It is with profound sadness and truly broken hearts that we the family have to announce the passing of out dear aunt and sister, Melvina Ida Pottie at the Strait Richmond Hospital on March 16, 2025 with her loving family by her side. Born in L'Ardoise, she was the daughter of the late Mary Georgette (Gallant) Pottie and Wilfred Pottie. Left to mourn are her brothers, Gerald, Felix, Paul, Patrick, Albert, David and half brother, Hal; sisters, Diean, Marie, Brenda, Christine; half sisters, Obiline, Sarah and Karen. She was predeceased by her sister, Lucy in infancy and half sisters, Elizabeth and Theresa. Vina (as pretty much everyone knew her) had the kindest heart and was the sweetest person; as every doctor she met always told her. She was a member of the ROC Centre for 46 years and very dedicated. She worked at Subway for a couple of years and loved that also. She actually loved everything; big and small. She also had a bit of a stubborn side when it came to the ROC. There was no telling Vina it was a storm day, cause she was ready to go until the announcement came on The Hawk; then back to bed she went. She had a few hobbies like knitting dishcloths, hats, neck warmers and slippers. Vina also liked to make puzzles. She was a bit of a gambler; never wanting to miss a bingo or Rummoli game. She was always up for visitors, especially from Brenda and Paul. Vina was always up for some music and singing and there was never enough macaroni for her. She always loved animals, especially her babies, Marley, Sadie and Jasma (when it was actually Jasmine). We would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at the Strait Richmond Hospital for their wonderful care in her short visit. Thank you to Dr. Gillis, Lesley and their team, all the VON Home Support Workers and the nurses, the 4 paramedics  that came that morning, God bless you; Jennifer Mombourquette, and Dr. Alison Archibald at the Cancer Centre in Sydney.   Visitation will be held on Wednesday March 26, 2025 from 3-8pm at the Holy Guardian Angels Funeral Parlor. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11am on Thursday March 27, 2025 from Holy Guardian Angels Parish; Rev. John Yake officiating. Donations in Vina's memory made be made to the Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society or charity of choice.

Black Point, NS April 22, 1927 - March 01,2025 Life with Lois. Lois enjoyed a happy childhood, growing up in Black Point on beautiful St. Margaret's Bay. It was heaven on earth... her very own ocean playground! But all was not idyllic. At the age of eight, she tragically witnessed the drowning death of one her brothers resulting from a sledding accident. The sled had gone through the ice on the pond and only one of the two brothers was able to be saved. At age 11 she lost another brother in his infancy. After graduating high school in the late 1940s Lois took her first job with J&M Murphy's in downtown Halifax, taking the bus to town and back. She would stop in on occasion at Stitchbury's Fruit and Confectionary on Buckingham Street, where she met her future husband, Keith. They wed September 15, 1951, the first couple to be married in the Black Point United Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter they bought a house on Chebucto Road, where they welcomed son Kim in 1956. Lois stayed at home with her little boy. In 1961 came their beautiful daughter Joy and Lois became a full-time parent, as Keith was now on the road with his sales business. Lois believed in old-style discipline — guilty until proven innocent — which usually meant you took the whooping regardless of innocence or guilt, the message being, "Don't even think about it… Kimberly." One skill Lois had that was very impressive was her penmanship. She had the most beautiful handwriting and always took pride when she had to sign her name to a letter/card or document. Her signature was like the pro athletes of the fifties and sixties. Throughout this period Lois and Keith housed many borders with whom they became good friends and stayed in contact with over the years. In the summers vacations meant camping trips around the eastern part of the country, with fun times and some colorful language involved in setting up and packing up at each location. Lois eventually went back into the job market, working at Bud Lantz’s corner store for a number of years. In the early 1970s she worked at the Balcom-Chittick Drug Store at the Armdale rotary. In the late 1970s she began working for the County School Board, which was conveniently located within walking distance, so she was able to come home for lunch. She was very industrious and would do a number of home chores before she left for work and at lunch time. She also babysat, and made and sold her special birthday cakes which were widely loved. She worked with the school board until her retirement in 1993. Daughter Joy blessed Grandma Lois with two beautiful grandchildren, Kyle in 1988 and Brittany in 1993. Lois loved having them for sleepovers as she could take them to the beach and give them nature experiences. They have gone on to carve their paths in life and are both currently living in Alberta. Lois and one of her sisters inherited the family property in Black Point and Lois was able to purchase the house from her sister, who lived in Vancouver. Lois wanted to add a foundation and move the original structure back onto the foundation, but the integrity of the structure would not allow this. A new house had to be built, which worked out to Lois's advantage as she got to have a say in everything during construction. Keith would always say “Happy wife, happy life for Keith.” Lois, in retirement, was back in heaven with the new home in Black Point. She enjoyed being outdoors in nature with the ability to go for a swim in the ocean, walk down the trail to her secret berry patch, and of course plant and tend to her flower and vegetable gardens. Their neighbours were terrific and treated them like royalty! Lois and Keith had very fond connections to the church members of St. Andrew's St. Mark's United Church and they enjoyed helping with garden tours, soup lunches, or whatever fundraiser was on the agenda. A special mention to Bob and Bonnie McCuaig, Debbie Gass and the many others who touched their lives. With the fire department next door Lois periodically took the crew over a treat of chocolate chip cookies or whatever she was baking. The fire crew were always happy to see her and she was happy to have them as neighbours. On September 2 of 1998 Lois and Keith heard what they thought was a clap of thunder at the mouth of the bay, which turned out to be the Swissair Flight 111 disaster. Of course, the fire department was on the move minutes after the emergency siren. Lois and Keith went on their trip of a lifetime to Hawaii which was one of the highlights of their marriage. Lois always wanted to take an Alaskan Cruise and started planning for it very early. When the time finally came Lois was excited to go. She and Keith boarded the plane and sat on the tarmac for an hour before getting called back to the gate, where they sat for another two hours, but never got off the ground. The date was September 11, 2001 — the 9/11 tragedy. Following this, Lois lost her desire for further travel adventures, so the Alaskan cruise dream was left unfulfilled. The family started to notice changes in Lois in her early- to mid-eighties, as the initial signs of Alzheimer's began to appear. This was difficult for all to watch as the disease progressed. She developed Osteoarthritis in her right hip, which restricted her from her favourite activities. Sadly, surgery was not an option due to her age and the effects of anaesthesia on an Alzheimer’s patient. Lois was defiant about going to a care home — it was enough of a struggle to get Lois and Keith to allow VON to come in the house to make sure they were taking their daily medicine. Some days they were reluctant to even answer the door! Keith had a hard time understanding what Alzheimer's was and how it affected Lois's behavior. Toward the end of their stay in the house neither one was eating well or getting proper care, and Lois would hobble around the house on a crutch. In November 2019 she decided she wanted to venture down to the basement, which she had not visited in four years, and had a major fall on the stairs. This was the end of her stay in the house. After spending eight days in Emergency, Lois was finally transitioned to Maplestone Enhanced Care where she would be cared for 24/7. It took some time for her to acclimatize as she knew where home was — Black Point! The staff at Maplestone treated her with tremendous kindness, compassion, dignity, respect and love. It was a horrible time living through the covid virus period as loved ones could not go in to see their relatives, and talking on the phone through the window was the closest solution. Lois's health improved at Maplestone as she was getting her medications and better nutrition. The Alzheimer's progression slowed now that she was in a caring environment. Lois participated in a lot of activities that the Recreation Coordinators arranged, and very much enjoyed the physical games that they played. Lois got to meet three of her great-grandchildren, Avery, Nash and Kaia, and dearly wanted to meet the twins, Emmett and Ethan. She passed away on March 1, 2025, following a brief respiratory illness. Lois was ready to say good-bye. She will be missed by all she touched. A special thank-you to the VON that called on Lois and Keith, Dr. Robert Scovil, the crew at St. Andrew's St. Mark's United Church and the angels of Maplestone, with special mention to Darlene Hornbuckle. Lois was the last of her eight siblings to pass. She was predeceased by her parents Emerson and Leah (Rafuse) Wilnoff, husband Keith, sisters Pauline, Jean, Florence, Mary, Joan, brothers John, Ross and Nelson. She is survived by her son Kim, daughter Joy MacMillan (David), grandchildren Kyle MacMillan (Amber), Brittany Anderson (Justin), great-grandchildren Nash, Avery, Kaia, Emmett and Ethan, and sister-in-law Myrtle Wilnoff, along with many nieces and nephews. There will be an informal Celebration of Life for Keith and Lois Saturday, May 10, at 11a.m. at the Black Point Community Center attached to Fire Station 56. In memory of Lois donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.

Greenwood, NS April 29, 1953 - March 15, 2025 Julie Ann (Miner) Morley, age 71, of Greenwood, NS, passed peacefully on March 15, 2025, at Valley Hospice, Kentville, with her son Daniel at her side.  Julie was born April 29. 1953, the daughter of the late William Miner and Agnes (Ramey) Miner of Paradise, NS.   A graduate of the Nova Scotia Teachers College, Julie spent most of her teaching career at Lawrencetown Consolidated Elementary School.     Julie’s lifetime love of curling was evident to all.  She competed successfully for many years at regional and provincial bonspiels, including the Canadian Senior Curling Championship winning the Sportsmanship Award.   She became a well-respected official/Umpire at provincial, national and world curling events, which she thoroughly enjoyed.  Her expertise and fairness was second to none.     Julie was a faithful supporter of the Annapolis Valley Exhibition where, for over 30 years, she was the Ring Clerk, keeping track of everyone and everything that happened in the ring.   A few years ago, Julie got back to making music with her guitar and the many new friends she made at jams far and wide.  Julie’s passion for music gave her purpose and a reason to fight on, even through the trying times.  Her dedication to music, sharing, and offering support within her circle will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.  She was always, and still is, a gentle spirit.   Summers recently were spent at her beloved Mavilette Beach, where her “beach family” became very special to her.   In addition to her parents, Julie was predeceased by her partner, David Ronaldson.      She is survived by her son, Daniel Morley (Greenwood) and granddaughter, Brenna Morley (South Carolina); brother, Stephen Miner (Germany); several cousins and Daniel’s father and her good friend Bill Morley (Paradise).   By request there will be no visitation or service.

Sydney, NS June 9, 1947 – March 13, 2025 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Wayne Colin MacDonald on March 13, 2025. Born in Sydney, NS, he was the son of the late Colin and Barbara (Harper) MacDonald of Mira Road. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Josephine Marie (Redmond), and his brother, Blair (Bernadette). Wayne and Josephine were high school sweethearts, graduating from Riverview High School, Class of ’66. She was the apple of his eye, affectionately called “Ralph.” Their love story was built on laughter, devotion, and a lifetime of shared memories. Wayne is survived by his children, Cary (Maureen McNamara) and Jodi (Blair MacDougall), who were his greatest joys. Jodi was his “Sweetie,” and Cary was his “Little Rock.” Their bond was unbreakable, built on love, laughter, and cherished moments. Cary and Jodi’s devotion to their father knew no bounds, ensuring he always felt the love he gave so freely. Wayne was a proud grandfather to Jonathan and Cameron. His family grew even richer with Maureen’s children—Michaela and Merrick—as well as great-grandchild Rowan, all of whom were blessed to share in the life he built. He also adored his grand-puppies, Lexi and Stella. He is also survived by his brothers, Greg (Nancy) and Brent (Joan); sisters-in-law, Beryl Sutherland (Stuart) and Dorothy Redmond (Norman); brother-in-law, Jerry Redmond (Brenda); and many cousins. Wayne was a proud uncle to many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews, all of whom he adored. His impact on Cape Breton hockey was profound. As a coach and CBCMHA board member, he shaped young athletes, teaching not just the game but teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. His dedication lives on through the MacDonald-Gallagher Tournament, honoring his decades of commitment. He didn’t just coach—he cared deeply, often piling kids into his vehicle to make sure no child missed a game or practice. On August 4, 1975, Wayne fulfilled his dream by founding SAF-WAY Auto Parts Ltd., not just as a business but as a pillar of the community. He treated employees and customers like family, fostering loyalty, respect, and lifelong friendships. Since 1986, he worked side by side with his son, Cary, a partnership that brought him immense pride. They worked together until March 2020. Even after stepping away, his wisdom remained a guiding force in the business he built with passion. Wayne and Jodi shared a commitment to helping others. For years, they led efforts with the Every Woman’s Centre Adopt-A-Family program, ensuring families in need were supported, especially during the holidays. Their dedication brightened countless lives, reflecting Wayne’s unwavering belief in generosity and community. Wayne had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. His sharp wit and playful teasing filled every room with laughter. Wayne’s legacy of love, hard work, and devotion will live on in all who knew him. Though our hearts ache in his absence, we take comfort knowing he is once again with Josephine, watching over us with that familiar twinkle in his eye. Visitation will be held at Sydney Memorial Chapel on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 4-7 PM and Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 4-7 PM. A private family funeral will take place at a later date. Donations in Wayne’s memory may be made to An Cala Palliative Care Unit or the Cancer Unit at Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Wayne, your kindness, wisdom, and unwavering presence shaped lives in ways that words can never fully capture. The world is better because you were in it, and your legacy will live on in the countless hearts you touched.

Westphal, NS July 21, 1944 – March 13, 2025 It is with great sadness the family of Joseph Henry Poirier announce his passing on March 13, 2025, at home in Westphal with his family by his side at age 80. Born July 21,1944, in New Waterford, Cape Breton, he was the only son of the late Mary (Aucoin) and Willie Poirier. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Gloria (Mitchell); sons Tony (Kathy) who was his dad’s pick up man, Westphal; Brent (Julie) who could always make his dad laugh, Dartmouth; granddaughters, Sydney (Jake), Drew (Seth);sister, Mary C (John Fennell) Westphal; brother in-law Clifford Boudreau, several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Eileen Boudreau. Henry was a cook for over 50 years at senior care homes in Halifax. He was also known as the campground cook who served up many potato pancake breakfasts. He built the family home and could always been found tinkering with wood making a woodworking project for the house. His all-time favourite hobby was taking his 1984 Mustang to car shows around the province. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Dartmouth General Dialysis Unit for the wonderful care given to Henry over the last several years. Cremation has taken place. By request there will be no visitation or service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nova Scotia Kidney Foundation.