Search Results

Kentville, NS May 24, 1941 - November 18, 2024 Born in Preston, Ontario on May 24, 1941, Cyrus Shantz "Cy" MacLatchy was a son of Frank and Margaret (Shantz) MacLatchy. He and his brother, Edward "Red", grew up near the old P.E. Shantz Foundry. One of Cy’s fondest childhood memories was roaming the fields with his dog, Daisy. Cy was a physics professor at Acadia University, and also served as the Dean of Science and Vice-President Academic. He saw physics not just in the cosmos, but in the entire natural world. When encountering a new problem to solve in everyday life, his eyes would light up and he’d say, "that’s just physics". He loved both teaching and research and was never happier than when his students went on from Acadia to further their own studies. Cy had fun visiting and revisiting scenic spots on the Nova Scotia shores. He knew almost every byway and back road and was famous for taking ‘short cuts’ that could lead to somewhere unexpected. He thrived outdoors, and enjoyed flower gardening, kayaking and hiking, and last trekked to Cape Spilt at the age of 79. He could repair almost anything around the house and many of his temporary fixes ended up lasting decades. "What would Dad do?" was the most common refrain in the family whenever anyone embarked on a household repair project of their own. He collected old maps and found pleasure in art that depicted the Maritimes. He was an avid reader of scientific literature as well as science fiction and mystery novels, and was a whiz at Sudoku. He enjoyed passing on his love of Canadian football to his daughters and became a soccer fan when his grandkids took up the sport. He was entertained by cats Nicky and Jag, who were an integral part of the family. His beloved family meant the world to him. He met his wife, Ann Marie (Robinson), during his first year at Acadia. Over summer vacations they wrote to each other almost every day. For 61 years of marriage they were hardly apart. He was enormously proud of his daughters, Deborah, Laura and Heather. His grandchildren Karamoja, Alexa, Joseph, Sean, and JJ brought him great joy. It is difficult to describe the depth of his connection and loving concern for the happiness of his children and grandchildren. He grew to know and admire his sons-in-law, Bill, John and Prasanna, and to care deeply for his step-grandchildren, Jaide, Rohan, Kay and Cole. He will be missed by his sisters-in-law, Ann and Lynda; his nieces, Margaret, Claire, Mary and Cynthia, and nephews, Ian, Mark, Keith and Stephen. Sadly, brother Red and his wife, Patty; niece Kelly; brothers-in-law, Clair, Ralph and Alden; and sister-in-law, Phyllis are no longer with us. Cy left us on November 18, 2024.  He will forever be a part of us.  As the Irish adage says, ‘ We shall not see his like again ’. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no visitation or service, but a celebration of his life will take place in the summer for friends and family. Donations in Cy’s memory may be made to the Wolfville Area Food Bank or Valley Regional Hospital - ICU.

New Glasgow, NS November 25, 2024 Alison Milton Roy Gallant, age 35, passed away on November 25th, 2024 surrounded by his family at home. Alison is survived by his mother, Jane Gallant and siblings: Billijane (Bryan), Justin (Pele), Hope (Chris), and nephew and nieces: Levi, Penelope, Olivia and Dolly. He was predeceased by his father, Billy Gallant. He will be missed by his roommates and staff at 25 MacBeth Rd. Alison was employed at Summer Street Industries for 15 years. Alison loved to spend his time boating, four wheeling, going for truck drives and watching heavy equipment operating. He also enjoyed looking at family photo books, listening to music, going out to dinner and especially spending time with family. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, December 1st, from 1-3pm at Summer Street Industries, 72 Park St., New Glasgow, with Words of Remembrance at 2pm, followed by the burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Pictou Landing. To honor Alison’s love of music, the family requests that any donations in his memory be made to the ‘Please Be Seated’ deCoste Fundraising Campaign (c/o R.H. Porter Funeral Home, PO Box 1, New Glasgow, NS, B2H 5E1 or info@rhpoter.ca ).

Halifax, NS February 04, 1965 - November 22, 2024 It is with deepest sorrow that we announce that Laura Lee (Livingstone) Irving passed away suddenly at home on November 22nd 2024, due to complications from her battle with cancer. Her husband was able to be with her. Laura was known for her passion and dedication to her family and friends, and a love of music, often to be found dancing around the kitchen. Laura will join her father, Fred Livingstone, stepmother Darlene Adams, and two sisters, Deena and Tanya in the next life. She is Survived by her Mother Helen (Wasson), brothers, Marc and Matthew, and sister Alison. Her loss will be most felt by her loving husband, Reg Irving, after 41 years of marriage. Laura also had two children, Corey Irving, and Stephanie “Steph” Irving (Christa Skinner), as well as one grandchild, Rylee, who was the light of her life. She had numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory. Laura was a dedicated employee at the IWK Heart Center for over 30 years, even planning on returning to work after her treatment finished. She touched many lives and worked hard every day, to support families and patients. Her love for her work shone through, and she made a difference every day. She desperately wanted to regain her strength to get back to the work she loved. In her office a sign was posted by the door which read “The office where all Heart Center related questions can always be answered”. Her loss will be felt across the department. A giving heart, even in death, her body will be donated to medical research, and a celebration of life will be held at 2:30 pm (Atlantic Time) on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Bedford Baptist Church, 158 Rocky Lake Dr. Bedford NS. A live stream will be available on Bedford Baptist Church’s YouTube Channel (@bedfordbaptistchurch8921). Donations in her name can be made to the IWK Heart Centre, or the Cancer Society.

Halifax, NS November 25, 2024 Daphne - age 90, passed away peacefully at the VG Hospital on Nov. 25, 2024 after a long illness. Born in Springhill, NS she was the oldest daughter of the late Henry & Annie (Hayward) McIver. Her late husband Ronald McCarther was her much loved & constant companion. Surviving are Son Scott (Debbie)McCarther, Daughters Linda and Nancy (Frank) O'Sullivan. Seven Grandchildren: Meghan, Michael, Sean,Samantha, Patrick, Gerard and Raymond. Pre-Deceased are her two sisters Eleanor(MacAskill), and Evelyn (McIver). Daphne was a Teacher & Volunteer Co-ordinator at the Halifax School for the Blind, and Social Activist helping everyone & anyone in need. She was a member of the United Church of Canada and a CGIT leader in her local church for many years. She was a founding member of the Halifax Red Hat Society which she had many years of enjoyment. The Family spent most of their summers in Stanhope, PE and in their retirement years as Snowbirds in Port Richey, Florida. Daphne was an avid reader and was constantly planning some event, or trip for Friends & Family. One of her most proudest events was a Fund-raised Trip for approx. 25 Blind Students & Chaperones to Disney world in Florida. There will only be a Buriel service at a later date in River Hebert, NS. In lieu of Flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Hospice NS or a charity of your choice.

Oxford, NS November 21, 2024 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Donald Lawrence Wood, age 83, of Oxford. Don passed away on Thursday November 21st, 2024 at his home. Born in Springhill, NS, he was a son of the late Alfred and Christine (Matheson) Wood. Don worked as a constable for the City Of Bathurst ,NB for a number of years. The majority of his work life was spent driving truck for Cumberland Paving until retirement. His passion was his antique cars where he enjoyed going to car shows. Don is survived by his sons Daniel (Lisa) Truro and Kevin (Lisa); granddaughter Alex, Truro; brother Bill (Cynde) Truro; sister-in-law Joyce Wood, Valley; nephew Bob and niece Christa, as well as former wife, Arlene Wood (Kennedy) Cape Spear, N.B. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife Elizabeth Smith and brother Jim. Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will take place in the Spring in the Hillside Cemetery. Donations in Don's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Rock Elm, NS May 29, 1954 — November 17, 2024 It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Dave (Daddio) Lewis, 70 of Marion Bridge, Nova Scotia. Daddio has finally clocked out of his final shift and went to the big retirement in the sky where everything is free, the beer is chilled and the lakes are plentiful with fish. The government won't tax you there, Dad.  Born and raised in South Bar/Whitney Pier by Robert Lewis and Mary Lewis (LeBlanc), Dave was a private person and a fierce introvert but loved all the quality time he spent with his inner circles. His warm, wide smile sold his personality to everyone. Dave met and married Judy in their 20s, staying together for 39 years, and eventually bought 50+ acres of glorious land in tranquil Marion Bridge. It was here in God’s Country, as he called it, where they built their forever home, raised their three children, kept a few family dogs, and "vicious" roosters and hens over the years, all the while enjoying the evergreen-filled mountain.  From cradle to grave, Dave was a workaholic. He was strong as an ox, stubborn as a mule, saucy like a sailor, always acted like a "tough-guy", but had a golden heart which outweighed the earth's mass, albeit a little rough around the edges. He was a jack of all trades and was one of the smartest men we have ever had the privilege of knowing. He would always lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it, especially when it came to mechanical things. He dedicated most of his working life to the Sydney Steel Corporation (SYSCO) until its dissolving in 2001. After those many years, David spent his working years building homes for people and his own family members throughout Cape Breton Island. He never took shortcuts and always strived for perfection in all things he created, even when he was told by his superiors that it was "good enough". Which led to the creation of one of his catchphrases " It's good enough for the girl I go with ". Which actually meant it was never good enough until it surpassed perfection.  He was a devoted husband, father, and friend to many. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Judith (MacLellan), and his children Matthew, Jillian, and Jarrett who all inherited various skills and traits, especially his stubbornness and dry humour. He is survived by his sisters, Vina (Michael) and Monica (Dave Kanchuck), who will deeply miss him. He is also predeceased by his brothers, Robert (Ann), Frankie (Ann), and Donnie, all of whom he loved and missed dearly. They are now reunited to drive Robert Sr. and Mary absolutely off the deep-end once again.  His hobbies included using and repairing sound equipment, collecting music and vinyl, off-roading, gardening, video games (Tetris and Dr. Mario) as well as thousands of partially finished projects, including but not limited to: his 1986 Jeep CJ, his fishing boat, his cabin, his collection of trucks and vans, his ATV, woodworking and who knows what else he had plotted in that large brain. He was an avid hockey fan, but did not really rely on any single team as they all let him down in one season or another. He loved the outdoors and always enjoyed partaking in hunting, fishing, kayaking, and camping. Just like his father before him, he had a thirst for knowledge which saw him spend countless hours on YouTube watching videos on a variety of topics. Always one to take things to the extreme, he still holds hard-copy printed TV service manuals from the 80s in his vast collection.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in memory of David to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation in support of An Cala Unit. To donate, visit cbrhfoundation.ca , phone 902-567-7752, or mail 45 Weatherbee Road, Suite 209, Sydney, B1M 0A1.  Rest Easy, Daddio.  "Nobody listens to me, why doesn't nobody listen to me? I'm right."

Sydney, NS November 14, 2024 It is with heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of our beloved mother, Ann Marie Ranni at Harbourstone Enhanced Care, Sydney, on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the age of 90. Mom was born in Sydney to the late George and May (Bond) Thompson. Mom worked in the dining room of the Isle Royal Hotel until she retired. She enjoyed playing cards, bingo, listening to music and going to concerts. In her earlier years, she also enjoyed bowling with the Wednesday night mixed bowling league. Mom was predeceased by the love of her life, Julius, after 51 years of marriage; great-granddaughter, Nikole; son-in-law, Tony Dawson; sisters, Jenny, Helen, Gladys, Francis, Ida, Alice and Mary; brothers, Charlie, George, James, Peter, Gordie, and Charlie. Ann Marie is survived by her seven children, Marie (Pat) Parago, Carol (Lawrence) Capstick, Julius ‘Junior’ (Gale), Helen (Joe) LeBlanc, Chuck (Gail), Steve (Denise) and Margie Dawson; 13 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sister, Josephine Watson and brother, Allan. We would like to thank the fantastic nursing staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, palliative care unit, the staff and volunteers of Hospice Cape Breton and Dr. Ann Francis D’Intino, for all the love and compassion they showed mom and us over the last several months. Also, mom’s family physician, Dr. Myatt for his great care over the years. Visitation and memorial service to celebrate the life of Ann Marie Ranni will be held at Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church St.), Whitney Pier on Monday, December 2, 2024. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 noon with the memorial service to follow at 12 p.m. in the All Faith Chapel with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marie can be made to Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County.

Springhill, NS November 20, 2024 It is with sadness we announce the passing of Kenneth John Reginald Smith , 72 years, of Springhill, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 in All Saints Hospital, Springhill.   Born in Springhill, he was a son of the late Kenneth R. and Genesta V. (Rector) Smith. He enjoyed fishing and watching Chicago Blackhawks play hockey. He is survived by a son Jonathan of Toronto, ON; daughter, Kenda Smith, Lucan, ON;  brothers, Ted (Phyllis), Atwood, ON, Vincent (Jackie), Atwood, ON; sisters, Elease Manley, Springhill, Lavern (Jim) Merritt, Springhill, Loreell Smith, Atwood, Ont. and Sandra 'Sandy' Cox. Springhill; grandchildren, Hannah Nelemans, Libby Nelemans as well as many nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a grandson, Kolby Smith. Cremation has taken place.  Burial will take place in Hillside Cemetery, Springhill, in the spring. Donations in John's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

Sydney, NS June 24, 1935 - November 19, 2024 Aucoin, Albert (Al) - Sydney, NS, passed away peacefully at Hospice Cape Breton on November 19, 2024, surrounded by family and love. Albert, son of Joseph and Lucy-Anne (Desveaux) Aucoin, was born on June 24, 1935, in Saint Joseph du Moine. He spent his first five years there until he moved to New Waterford with his family. Albert is survived by his wife of 34 years, Norma (Hedd) Aucoin, sons Kevin (Janet) Aucoin, Truro, NS; Darryl (Michelle) Aucoin, Coxheath, NS; and step-children Belinda (Stuart) Ferguson, Bedford, NS; and Brian (Anna-Maria) Hedd, Moncton, NB. Grandchildren Jack & Marc Aucoin, Jadon Aucoin, Paige Ferguson, Emma & Jacob Leblanc, Olivier & Simon Gaudet. siblings Isabelle (Danny) MacLennan, Justine Ryan, Leona Sheppard, Rachelle Nugent, Margaret (Melvin) Saniga and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Albert was predeceased by sister Rita Aucoin and brothers Yvon and Clarence Aucoin; brothers-in-law Evelyn Sheppard and Joe Nugent; sisters-in-law Mary-Ann and Lizzie Aucoin and step daughter-in-law Sylvie Gallant. Albert began his journey as a member of the Canadian Military, serving with the Queen’s Own Rifles Regiment. On his 19th birthday, while enroute to Korea aboard the US troop ship The Marine Adder, the ceasefire was signed, and his mission shifted to that of a peacekeeper. After leaving the military, Albert worked in the #18 Colliery in New Waterford, where he built lifelong friendships. He later found his calling as an industrial insulator with Guildfords, dedicating three decades to his craft before retiring. In retirement, Albert and his beloved wife Norma enjoyed winters in Florida and cruises in the Caribbean. They found joy in visiting family and grandchildren across the Maritimes and giving back to their community. As a proud member of Legion Branch 12 in Sydney, Albert served on numerous committees and as the “Sergeant at Arms” for several years, earning the honour of “Legionnaire of the Year” in 2007. A significant milestone in Albert’s life came in 2010, when he was proclaimed an “Ambassador for Peace” by the people and government of the Republic of Korea. With his wife Norma, he played a pivotal role in the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles’ early years - forming lasting connections with players and their families during their 12 years as billets. A passionate Toronto Blue Jays fan, Albert rarely missed a game. He also enjoyed following any NHL match that featured former Screaming Eagles players. Albert had a remarkable talent in the kitchen delighting friends and family with his famous French toast, Fricot, Acadian meat pie, and pork roast. His culinary skills earned him the affectionate nickname “Chef Boyar-Al” from the numerous Screaming Eagles players lucky enough to enjoy his creations. Albert’s legacy is one of service, love, and a life well-lived. He leaves behind a family who adored him, a community who respected him, and countless memories that will be cherished forever. He will be deeply missed by Norma, his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Special thanks to Dr. Kylene MacKillop and to the doctors and nurses at Hospice Cape Breton - Palliative Care for their exceptional kindness and tireless care. Cremation has taken place under the direction of T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel. Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, beginning at 12:30 pm followed by a memorial service at 2:00 pm at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel, 755 George St, Sydney. The family invites everyone attending to join them for a reception immediately following the service. A private interment will take place at Forest Haven at a later date. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace, Albert. Your kindness, dedication, and passion for life have left an unforgettable mark on all who knew you.

Kentville, NS November 18, 2024 It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the sudden passing of Hubert Elton "Hugh" Benjamin. Hugh passed away in the Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville, on Monday, November 18, 2024 at the age of 53. Born in Pictou, he was the only son of the late Clarence "Elton" and Esther (Bigney) Benjamin. Hugh was a well-known and respected plumber in the Valley, working for G.C. Baxter Plumbing & Heating for many years. In his free time, he dabbled in photography, with a special interest in abandoned barns and nature photography. He loved driving around in his truck looking for beautiful scenery to photograph. He was also a hockey lover, a big fan of the Boston Bruins, a lover of NASCAR, and faithfully attended Thunder in the Valley annually. Hugh is survived by his son, Zachery (Emma Sturk) and Zachery’s mother, Sherry Benjamin, as well as his son, Mark Zugay of New Glasgow; sisters, Lori (Eldred) Fraser, Bonnie Bigney; half-sisters, Ruth (Michael) Grant and Sherry Canton; three grandsons; his niece and nephew, Crystal (Philip) Martin and Michael (Rose Spencer) Bigney, who were like his siblings; as well as several other nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents . Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville, where the funeral service will also be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. For those unable to attend a livestream will be available at the time of the service. Donations in memory may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Hugh may have left us too soon, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Mira Road, NS November 15, 2024 It is with sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Douglas Roderick “Doug” Bennett on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney. Born August 6, 1966, in Ontario, he was a son of Douglas Bennett and the late Sheila (MacKeigan) Bennett. Doug is survived by his daughter, Megan Bennett (Keigan Hennick), Sydney; sons, Frankie (Taryn Mombourquette), Sydney Mines and Johnny (Madison Christmas), Mira Road; brother, Johnathon (Michelle), Westmount; grandson Lincoln; and the mother of his children, Lori Devereaux. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Sydney Memorial Chapel. A private family graveside service will be held in Lakeside Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to Marijuana for Trauma, Sydney.

Antigonish, NS January 05, 1947 - November 20, 2024 Barker, Gordon Alfred (age 77) of Antigonish, died on November 20th at St. Martha’s Hospital, Antigonish.  Gordon was born January 5th, 1947, to Keith Barker and Iris Marie Manche in Birkenhead, Great Britain.  He grew up in Scarborough, Ontario where he has fond memories of chasing rabbits in the nearby fields with his 2 brothers and playing a variety of high school sports. He graduated from Neil MacNeil High School in 1964.  He attended St. Francis Xavier University from 1967 to 1971 where he pursued a degree in Biology and graduated from his Bachelor of Education in 1972.  During his time at STFX he met and married his wife, Wendy Laura Gould of Amherst, Nova Scotia.  They were married in Amherst on August 23, 1969. He began teaching high school biology at Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School in 1972.  Gordon was the epitome of a true teacher.  He took tremendous pride in sharing his passion for Biology with countless students during his 32-year teaching career (which also included 2 years as principal at St. Andrews Consolidated and 6 years as Vice Principal at Dr. J.).  Gordon never stopped teaching.  His teaching and love of science extended beyond the high school classroom, to the STFX B. Ed program and into the community at large where he shared his knowledge of life sciences with Cubs and Scouts for over 10 years.  To this day, former students credit him as being their favorite teacher and the reason why they chose to pursue sciences in their own careers.  He taught for one last time in a formal classroom setting in Spring 2024 when he visited grade 3 classes at Antigonish Education Centre and shared his wealth of knowledge with classrooms full of grade 3 students enthralled by his infectious love of Biology! In his spare time Gordon enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, travelling, wood working, hiking, and playing racquetball.  Gordon supported various community organizations including Minor Hockey, Minor Softball, Minor Soccer, Boy Scouts Canada, St. Ninians Parish, and the Knights of Columbus. Gordon and Wendy proudly raised their 4 busy boys in Antigonish.  Neighborhood friends were always welcome to come and go from the family pool on hot summer days, and coffee with good friends Marina and Wes was a nightly event. They created a home filled with love while instilling in their children the importance of spending time with family, education, community involvement, and learning the importance of integrity in a job well done. After Wendy’s passing in 2005, he married Marguerite Chisholm in 2008.  They spent 10 years enjoying their retirement while travelling, frequenting local dances and concerts, and watching their grandchildren grow.  Gordon is survived by his children Gordon (Cheryl Ritz), Stephen (Lisa O’Connor), Kyle (Shannon MacPherson), and Sean (Christine Martell) as well as his biggest fans, his grandchildren, Kyla (Nathan Mark), Kourtney, Tyler (Melissa MacDonald), Ethan, Cameron, Toni, Nate, Sophie, Harvest and great granddaughter, Olivia. He is also survived by Marguerite’s children Tanya (Kevin Reardon), Stephen (Kara Saville), Shaun (Kathy MacDonald), Kyle  (Sylvia Rodrigeus) as well as  step grandchildren Hannah, Olivia, Linden, Astrid, George and Adi. He is predeceased by his parents Keith and Iris Barker, wife Wendy, wife Marguerite, and twin brothers Ian and Allen Barker. Gordon loved to laugh and had a great sense of humor.  He was the master of the dad joke, a legacy that is alive and well in his sons and even a few of his grandchildren!  It is certain that when his family gathers in the future, they will inevitably share one of many " G.B.-isms" and a good laugh will be shared by all. Gordon and his family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of those who have supported him during his illness, especially Palliative Care, VON, and doctors: Howard, Gorman, Mason and Fauor. Visitation will be in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish on Friday, November 22nd, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm.  Funeral Mass will be in  St. Ninian Cathedral on Saturday, November 23rd at 11:00 am with Reverend Danny MacLennan presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. Family flowers only please.  Donations in his memory may be made to Music Therapy (Palliative Care) at St. Martha's Hospital or the VON.