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Truro, NS March 17, 2024 Michael Vetterstrom "Mike" Hansen - 79, Truro. It is with great sadness that we announce Mike’s passing on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Cedarstone Enhanced Care, Truro, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Edwin and Hazel (MacLeod) Hansen. Mike grew up on a farm with his sister and parents, and it was there he discovered early on his love of nature, hunting, and fishing. Mike and his wife, Prue, met in high school where they soon fell in love and became soulmates. Mike joined the Navy while in high school, enrolling in the regular officer training plan (ROTP) to start his career and support his Bachelor of Science studies at Mount Alison University. Mike played junior varsity football and basketball at Mt.A and excelled in his studies. He then became a Sea King helicopter pilot with the Navy and continued as such for several years with sea-based platforms and naval air stations around the globe. Mike and Prue married in 1966 and had a beautiful loving marriage for 57 years. Once their children were born, Mike decided to become a teacher so he could work closer to home and family. He started as a chemistry teacher in Kennetcook while coaching students in basketball and offering drivers education as well. He also completed a master’s degree in education at Dalhousie at that time. After many years as teacher at Cobequid Educational Centre, Mike took on new positions as Vice Principal and then Principal at the high school. Once retired, Mike continued to enjoy spending time with his wife, his son, his daughter, his son-in-law, his daughter-in-law, and his grandchildren who meant the world to him. He also continued to enjoy riding his motorbike, hiking in nature, hunting, and fishing (especially with family and friends by his side), building a new home, and working steadily in his workshop in the construction of pieces of furniture, kayaks, sailboats, and leather stitched items, among all kinds of other practical yet precious items that he gave to family and friends for their use. Mike was truly the most kind, thoughtful and brilliant person imaginable, throughout his entire life. His unrelenting love for others and the world around him alongside his beautiful and wise intentions, guided his decisions and path through life. Although his disease deteriorated his brain and all other functions, these qualities were still so lovingly evident in various ways until the end. Mike is survived by his wife, Prudence "Prue" (Wilmhurst); children, Evan (Tiffany) Hansen, Patti (Wade) Hansen-Ketchum; grandchildren, Isaac (Hawley), Emily (Alex); brother-in-law, Tom Labour; sister-in-law, Margie Mallory; nieces, Sherri Labour, Jillian Mallory, Amy Mallory; nephew, Greg Mallory; extended family. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Rae Labour; nephew, Edwin Labour. A Celebration of Life will be held 3 p.m., Saturday, March 23, 2024, at St. John’s Anglican Church, 25 Church Street, Truro, The Reverend Lori Ramsey officiating. (Please use the link door between the church and hall to access the church.) Reception to follow in Kaulbach Hall. Spring interment will be held in Eaton Cemetery, Pugwash Junction. In lieu of flowers, we ask that in Mike’s memory you please donate to Nova Scotia Nature Trust, 81 Prince Albert Road, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 1M1, (https://nsnt.ca/giving/donate/memorial-gifts/), Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, 112-2719 Gladstone Street, Halifax, NS  B3K 4W6   (https://alzheimer.ca/ns/en) or or St. John's Anglican Church, 23 Church Street, Truro, NS  B2N 3Z5 (https://stjohnstruro.ca/giving.html) Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com

Dartmouth, NS July 16, 1943 - March 10, 2024 It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Brian Smith, KC, on March 10, 2024. Born in Halifax, Brian lived an extraordinary life from beginning to end. Brian was known to many as a brilliant criminal lawyer, a talented musician, and a good friend. To his family, he was all of these as well as a beloved father and grandfather. In the 1960’s Brian made his living as a professional musician. He played guitar, wrote songs, and recorded an album with a band called The Kingfishers. In 1971 he was President of the Dalhousie Student Union and Convocation Valedictorian. He graduated Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Commerce and received a Gold D. He continued his studies, and in 1974 he graduated from Dalhousie Law School which led to his long successful career. One of his proudest moments was receiving the Queen’s Counsel Designation, an award reserved for those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to the legal profession and in addition, the award is noted for its recognition of merit and community service. Brian also had a construction business as a side project for many years and the homes he helped build can be found throughout HRM and surrounding areas. For many years he was a volunteer and actively engaged with the ALS Society and the Canadian Ski Patrol, to both of which he generously donated his time. Brian held season tickets for the Halifax Mooseheads and enjoyed going to the games with his son Andrew for many years. He was also an avid golfer, being a former member at Ashburn Golf Club. Brian then went on to discover a new love - sailing. He became a member of the Shearwater Yacht Club, and later the Dartmouth Yacht Club, and it was here he was happiest as he navigated the waters of Nova Scotia. “Fair winds”, his trademark comment, sprang from his love of sailing. Brian is survived by his sons Patrick (Liz), Andrew (Shari) both of Halifax NS, daughter Colleen Carson (Mike) Vernon, BC, his grandchildren Kayla, Lincoln, Hannah, Leanna, Elijah, Nealla, Isaac, Finnley and Niall, nephew Michael McCauley, Alberta, niece Lisa Yeo, BC, and dear friend, Barbara Dickson. Brian is predeceased by his parents, Rita McLaughlin and William Smith as well as his sister Ann Yeo, and his partner Janet Wilson, whom he adored immensely. All those who knew him are invited to pay their respects at Dartmouth Funeral Home, 29 Queen Street, Dartmouth, on Saturday March 23, 2024 from 2PM to 5PM. There will be a private burial service for family and close friends on March 25, 2024. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the ALS Society of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia or a charity of your choice.

Hilden, NS March 14, 2024 Margaret Isabel "Margie" (Murray) Bernasconi – 73, Hilden, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 14, 2024, with her family by her side. Margie was born in Pictou and was the daughter of the late Fraser and Inez (Copp) Murray of The Falls, Colchester County. Margie was a graduate of the Nova Scotia Institute of Technology as a Laboratory Technician and was employed at Colchester Regional Hospital, Truro, where she became head of the Chemistry Department. She was devoted to helping others. Margie was a truly beautiful person who enjoyed reading, music, dancing, camping and travel with her friends and family. Her greatest joys were her family and friends. Margie is survived by her husband, Bill; daughter, Andrea (Herbie Duber) Bernasconi; son, Aaron (Kim) Bernasoni; grandchildren, Ben, Bella, Arielle, Aliya, Bodie, Kaila. She also leaves behind several cousins. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Hugh Murray. A special thanks to our extended family at Shannex Vimy Court and the doctors who helped lead us through this journey. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where a celebration of Margie’s life will be held from 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Private interment in Terrace Hill Cemetery. If so desired, donations in Margie’s memory to Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, Colchester East Hants Health Centre Foundation or a charity of choice are welcomed. Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Margie may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com

Truro, NS March 15, 2024 Edith Mae (Works) Bartlett – 102, Truro, passed away on Friday evening, March 15, 2024, at Shannex Vimy Court, Bible Hill. Born in Truro, she was a daughter of the late Chester and Susanna "Sadie" (Mahoney) Works. As a young couple, Mom and Dad were involved with the founding of the second St. David’s United Church in Bible Hill and were later life-long members of Brunswick Street United Church, Truro. Mom loved their cottage in Marshville, baking (including her wonderful fruitcakes which she delivered to friends and family) and to play cards; she played 45s with a group on CNR wives for over 50 years. Edith is survived by her daughters, Karen (Hollis) O’Toole; Sheila (Jack) Dale; grandchildren, Matthew (Amy) O’Toole, Patrick O’Toole (Roxanne Church), Nick Dale (Pamela), Jaclyn Dale (Kevin), Nathan Dale (Leann); great grandchildren, Sophie O’Toole, Isaiah Church, Daniel Dale; sister, Doris McDaniel, Hamilton, Ontario. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Elmer (2004); brothers, James, Percy, Fred, Howard; sisters, Josie, Gladys, Dorothy. We extend our sincere thanks to her many friends for the love and support shown to Edith over the years, Dr. Trevor Locke and Dr. Adam Aleksis, and to the wonderful staff of Vimy Court for their exceptional care and kindness. Private family interment in Crossroads Cemetery, 110 Salmon River Road, at a later date. If so desired, donations in Edith’s memory to Colchester SPCA are welcomed. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Edith may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com

Kentville, NS March 10, 2024 Mary "Theresa" Smith, 81, of North Kentville, passed away in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville on Sunday, March 10, 2024 after a brief illness. Born in Benacadie Glen, Cape Breton, she was a daughter of the late Roderick and Bertha (Byrne) MacNeil. Theresa is survived by her loving husband of almost 60 years, Blair Smith; sons, Brian (Maxine), Mark (Kelly), Kevin (Sylvia) and daughter, Sharon (John) Kinsman; brother, Roddie (Anne); grandchildren, Angela (Pat), Kaila and Joseph; nieces and nephews. She held a special place in her heart for her niece, Diane and nephew, Michael. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by brothers, Michael, Hector, Jimmie, Hughie, Billie, John, and sisters, Christina and Matilda. Theresa was a homemaker, a caregiver, and a loving Wife, Mother and Grandmother.  Her family meant everything to her.  She had a heart of gold, and you did not leave her house without a cup of tea and some sort of snack. She loved to bake, sew, and help others. She had a fondness for animals, and her dog Holly was her baby. We would like to mention her longtime friend, Allan Russell, and her best friend Lynn Brady. We would like to express a heartfelt thank you to our brother Mark who has been a huge help to our Mother and Father for many years. Also a heartfelt Thank you to 811, Ambulatory care and Paramedics, Emergency Dept., along with Doctors and Nurses at Valley Regional Hospital for the excellent care that was provided to our Mother the short time she was there. There will be no visitation or service. A private family interment will take place in Elm Grove Cemetery, Steam Mill at a later date. Donations in memory may be made to SPCA or WAY (We are Young). Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.

Baddeck, NS March 13, 2024 We announce the peaceful passing of our mom and fondly known as Nan to everyone, on March 13, 2024, age 76, surrounded by her family to join the love of her life, James Archibald Harvie. She was the daughter of the late Duncan and Elizabeth (MacLellan) Beaton. Mom/Nan was known for her love of family and strong work ethic, which she instilled in all the generations she raised, both biologically and surrogate mom to her special niece and nephews. Through her illness she led her family with peace and strength. She was a consummate caretaker to all those in need. Through her passing she had great faith on her journey to be with her husband and family who predeceased her. She has always proved everyone wrong and beat the odds. Mom/Nan is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Harvie; grandson, Shayne (Angela) Harvie; great-granddaughter, Mia; granddaughter, Ally (Connor) MacEachern; son, Rodney (Jill); grandchildren, Willie Archie, Sammy, Ellie; son, Michael and grandson, Jacob (Emily); great-granddaughter, Oaklee; niece, Stephanie (Shane) MacNeil; honorary grandson, Drew; nephews, Keith (Courtney) Beaton and Leonard (Brandi) Beaton; grandnephews, Garrison and Ewan; step-children, Jackie (Angelina) Harvie, Kathy (Mike) Samson, Susan and their children and grandchildren; brother, Robert Beaton and family. Predeceased by her husband; parents; brothers, Jimmy and Donald; sister, Anne Marie; sisters-in-law, Alice and Barb Beaton; child in Infancy, and grandson, Jake Harvie. We want Mom/Nan to be remembered for her love of storytelling, a good cup of tea and toast and watching Coronation Street. She was always helping people in need and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. There will be no visitation or service at this time. Donations in memory of Diana may be made to the Palliative/Hospice foundation of Victoria County Memorial Hospital. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home. Online condolences can be forwarded to the family at www.pierfuneralhome.com

Truro, NS March 14, 2024 Linda Gayle Forsythe – 72, Truro. It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Linda Gayle Forsythe on Thursday, March 14, 2024. Linda was born in Moncton, New Brunswick and passed peacefully at her Truro home surrounded by her loved ones. Linda was many things to many people, always there to offer help whenever and wherever needed, both to friends and strangers alike. During her lifetime, Linda had a variety of jobs from banking to management, but none were as important to her as her role as wife, mother and grandmother. Linda is survived by Philip, her husband of 54 years; daughters, Michele (Jeff Knowles) Forsythe and Tammy (Gary Richard) MacKenzie; grandchildren, Michael MacKenzie, Emily Lycett and Andrew Lycett; great-granddaughter, Bailey Harris MacKenzie; nieces and nephews, Denise Forsythe, Brian Nutter, Sean Nutter, Jennifer Nutter, Tim Terry; brother-in-law, Gary (Elaine) Forsythe; many great-nieces and great-nephews. Linda was predeceased by her mother, Harriet "Sally" Nutter; brother, Kirk (Sharon) Nutter, sister, Janice (Glen) Terry; brother-in-law, John Forsythe; nephew, Kevin Forsythe. There will be no service in keeping with Linda’s wishes. In lieu of cards or flowers, the family asks that you kindly donate to a charity of your choosing in keeping with Linda’s selfless generosity. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro.

Antigonish, NS Nov. 10, 2023 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth (Jane) MacNeil on Nov. 10, 2023, at the age of 60. Jane was predeceased by her parents Cornelius (Connie) MacNeil and Mary (Mae) Catherine MacNeil (Boyle); brother James MacNeil (stillborn). She is survived by her son Dean MacNeil, whom she loved dearly: as well as, siblings Harriet Steele, Blaise MacNeil, Sandra (John) Drach, Margie (Dave) Fracchia, Brad (Krista) Mac Neil; stepmother Felisa MacNeil, half-sister Darcy MacNeil; nieces and nephews, Chris (Lena) Oevering; Amber, Kyley, Lyndon (fiance’- Rayne Wilson), Catherine, Francis, John-Paul, Dominic, and James Drach; Christian (Seph) Fracchia, Courtney Fracchia; Darren and Allysia MacNeil; great nephews Caleb, Ezra, Lucas Oevering. Jane was born in Toronto Ontario, and also lived in Sault Ste Marie and Winsor ON, then moved to Antigonish NS in 1969. In 1977 she moved out west and lived in Alberta for numerous years, before moving to New Westminster, BC, where she spent the majority of her life. Jane had a strong work ethic and worked for Fraser Health for ~32 years. Jane was very spiritual and had a deep faith. She loved people, especially her family and friends. She was always full of conversation and had a spontaneous and witty sense of humor. She was an absolute joy to be around. Jane was a gentle soul and always put everyone ahead of herself and treated them with love and respect. On her errands or walking to work, she took the time to talk to people along the way, whether she knew them or not. She loved her cats, Sugar and Spice and was especially fond of birds and squirrels, which she liked to feed. She loved music and enjoyed dancing. Jane will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peters Catholic Church, 330 Royal Ave., New Westminster, BC at 11:00am on Saturday May 4, 2024. All welcome. Interment will take place at St. Ninian’s Cemetery in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, on Friday May 24, 2024 at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate a donation in Jane’s name to the Heart & Stroke Foundation

Truro, NS March 12, 2024 With heavy hearts, we regretfully announce the passing of Eleanor M. Blondon (Fahey).  Surrounded by her loving family, Eleanor passed away peacefully on March 12, 2024. Up until her last day Eleanor maintained her kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of family and friends, and expressed gratitude for her long life, full of wonderful and varied experiences. Eleanor was born and raised in Truro. She was a graduate of Success Business College where she finished top of her class. Eleanor’s working career began at Household Finance where she worked up to the time she got married. As her kids grew older, Eleanor decided to work part time at Pye’s Peek-a-boutique and Moments Boutique, where she was able to utilize her passion for style and fashion. Eleanor was an extremely generous and beautiful lady with a beautiful soul, who was meticulous about her appearance. She was a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed meeting new friends. The people that knew Eleanor were always impressed at her ability to handle all that life gave her. Even in her diminished state, near the end of her life, she continued to touch the hearts of so many, especially the folks at Wynn Park Villa. Eleanor’s family will be forever grateful for the loving care she has received from the entire staff at the Villa over the years. Eleanor was predeceased by her parents, Irwin W. "Blondie" and Mary Blondon; brothers, Austin and Brian. She is survived by her children, Christine Fahey, Austin, Texas; Peter (Ronda) Fahey, Shortts Lake; grandsons, Isaac Fahey, Shortts Lake; Jacob Blair, Truro; Riley Blair, Truro; former husband, Ralph (Doris) Fahey, Truro; brother, Bernie (Tammy) Blondon, Brentwood; sister-in-law, Brenda Blondon, Bedford; nieces and nephews, Chris (Jodi) Blondon, Bedford; Kelly (Jean) Genier, Ottawa; Robin (Shawna) Blondon, Halifax; best friend, Jennifer (Jamie) Paterson, Truro. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where a celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, March 18, 2024. Reception will follow. Interment at a later date in Robie Street Cemetery, 125 Robie Street, Truro. If so desired, donations in Eleanor’s memory to Wynn Park Villa (Recreation Department) are welcomed.

North Sydney, NS February 28, 1950 - March 13, 2024 It is with the greatest of sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, mother, and grandmother, Patricia ‘Patsy’ Louise Quirk, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Patsy was the second child of the late Louis and Mary (McNamara) Quirk. She was born February 28, 1950 in North Sydney. She attended St. Mary’s and St Joseph’s schools in North Sydney. After high school she went on to Teacher’s College in Truro. She came back to North Sydney and worked for Marine Atlantic for 36 years, making long lasting friendships with her working ladies up until her death. Patsy spent her life living to the fullest. She had many struggles in life, and all it did was make her a stronger person. Patsy was a people person to say the least. She was a spitfire, and a very animated speaker. Patsy was independent, fiery and determined, and we all loved her for it.  She enjoyed her music and was known to dance up a storm. Her sense of humour was unmatched, and definitely one of a kind. She absolutely loved the summer months and loved to swim. She spent her summers at the Bras d’Or lakes with her swimming buddies. We can’t thank her friends enough for being there over the last few months when the family could not. As well, our thanks go out to the nurses and doctors of 4D and 4E at Cape Breton Regional Hospital for always keeping the family informed and updated. A very special thank you to Dr. James Bentley from the Gynecologic Oncology department for his kindness, compassion and care over the last 13 years. She will be deeply missed by her only son Louis Francis (Sean) Quirk, wife Diana, and her only grandson Patrick, being the apple of her eye; as well as her older sister Annette, younger sister Cathy, and brother Gerard; nieces and nephews Charlotte and Laura Crawley, and Vaughan, Jonathan and Katie Reynders. A celebration of Patsy’s life will be held this summer in North Sydney.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. Memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Society or the Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional hospital.

Caledonia, NS Wednesday, March 13, 2024 Hirtle; Diane Marie, 71, of Caledonia, Queens County, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at home. Born in St. Catharine’s, ON, Diane was a daughter of the late Garnet and Noreen (Mansfield) MacDonald. Diane worked as a short order cook and manager of a cafeteria with Kmart in Ontario. Diane is survived by her husband Glenwood; son Michael (Dale) MacDonald of Dartmouth; brother Gary (Joanne) of St. Catherine’s ON. Besides her parents, Diane was predeceased by brothers James, Dwayne and David. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool, NS. where visitation will be held Monday, March 18th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 from the New Elm Union Church, New Elm. Pastor Royce Getson officiating. Burial will be in Lone Oak Cemetery, New Elm. Family flowers only, donations may be made to the North Queens Fire Association, Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

Frenchvale, NS September 21, 1944 - March 12, 2024 It is with broken hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of Phyllis Yurczyszyn (Parsons) on March 12, 2024.  Mom passed away suddenly at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Mom was born in North Sydney to the late Mary and Joseph Parsons on September 21, 1944.  She married the love of her life - Harold Yurczyszyn on November 7, 1964.  They chose to become parents to Harry and Lisa. They spent their lives teaching us the value of hard work and the love of family. Though they struggled through many hard times, they always made time for family and friends in need. They are together now to spend eternity with each other. Mom had a very strong will and worked hard no matter how we tried to make her take it easy.  She was always ready to give you the unvarnished truth, whether you wanted to hear it or not.  I don't know how the young ladies of our family are going to find decent partners now.  Mom could look in a guy’s eyes and she would tell you if he was a good catch or to throw him back into the water. Along with her parents and our father, mom was predeceased by sisters Alice Parsons, Bertha Hastie, Marie Smith, Darlene Russell; brothers Joseph Parsons, Cecil Parsons and Carl Parsons;  brother-in-law Greg Podetz. Mom is survived by her son Harry, (Colleen), her daughter Lisa (Jonathan); grandchildren Jessica, Shaine, Jonathan Jr., Abie, Amanda, Heather, Kelsey, Parker and Chantell; 14 great- grandchildren; sisters Viole  (Late Thomas) Haycox, Valerie Brown (Jerry) and Donna Podetz (Terry);  brothers Wayne (Sandy) Parsons, Tim (Liz) Parsons, and Douglas (Late Sharon) Parsons; sisters-in-law Jean Cann and Cecilia Parsons; special friends Gwen Cole, Roy Anderson and Peggy Hay. Mom is also survived by a great number of nieces, nephews and cousins, each of whom held a very special part of mom's heart. Visitation for Phyllis will be held from 7-9 pm, Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the W.J. Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.  A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am Monday, March 18, with Fr. Doug MacDonald officiating. Charitable donations may be made to Hospice/Palliative Care of Cape Breton or the V.O.N.