Westville, NS February 1, 2024 Carl Bowser, age 62, of Westville, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024. Carl grew up on army bases in his younger years travelling across Canada and graduated from Three Oaks High School in Summerside, PEI where he had made many friends. Carl was a salesman who worked hard all his life and accomplished many achievements such as becoming one of the youngest managers ever at Kmart. He spent many years building a loyal clientele in the furniture business. Carl enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing and hunting with his best friend, Dave; shooting pool and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was known for helping his friends, being the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, and for his wonderful sense of humour. Carl is survived by son, Jeff Bowser (Donna and children Ali and Georgia); daughter, Jessica Arsenault (Daniel and son Xavier); son, Corey Bowser ( Taylor and children Jared, Eva and Laurie-Lynn); sister, Debra Bowser (Alan and children Christopher, Nicole and granddaughter Sophie); sister, Ravada Benjamin (Andrew and children Jimmy, Sara and Craig); brother, John Bowser (Tracy and children Pasha, Jessie, and Winnie); brother, Donald Bowser (Varvara and children Sammy and Daniel). Carl was predeceased by sister, Arlene Arsenault, mother, Helen Sipprell, father, Elson Bowser and step father, Robert Sipprell. Visitation 4-6 pm Wednesday, February 7, R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Funeral 2 pm Thursday, February 8, R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow, with Rev. Dr. Glen Matheson officiating.

Kentville, NS February 4, 2024 Louisa Adeline (Stewart) Witty – 88, formerly of Cambridge, passed away peacefully in Evergreen Home for Special Care, Kentville on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Born in Ottawa, ON, she was a daughter of the late Hugh and Carol (Wolfe) Stewart. Louisa graduated from nursing school and received her training at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal. She continued working for several years in the nursing sector and then went on to work at Central Kings High School in the cafeteria until retirement. She was an exceptional cook and enjoyed sewing and crafts. Louisa is survived by her son, Hugh Witty, Centreville; daughters, Sheila Witty (William Spidle), Coldbrook; and Nancy (Douglas) Howell, Saskatchewan; brother, Richard Stewart, Yarmouth; grandchildren, Taylor, Ethan and Eva; and step-grandson, Cody. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her devoted husband, Kenneth Witty; and siblings, Donald Stewart and Jean Jones. There will be no visitation by request. The funeral service (with a video webcast) will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville. Reverend Ivan Norton officiating. Interment will take place in Lakeview Cemetery, Lakeville in the spring. Donations in memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.

Kentville, NS February 3, 2024 Richard David Corbin, 75, of Kentville, passed away suddenly on February 3, 2024 at home. Born in Kentville, he was a son of the late Daniel and Isabel (Farris) Corbin. Richard had a lengthy career as a truck driver. He drove doubles for Midland with Allison Brown and Gerald Porter, and then for the Shaw Group, from where he retired. He later returned to trucking for GK Morse, in addition to delivering produce for Noggins Farm with his good friend, Donnie O’Brien. He is survived by his loving wife, Mona (Pelton); son, Bradley (Cherie), Northville; brother, Brian (Jill), Ottawa, ON; grandchildren, Brianna (Brandon), Tyler (Sam), Gavin and Kyle (Olivia); as well as several nieces nephews and extended family members. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, David (Karen) in 2002. Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation, by request. The funeral service (with livestream) will be held at 11 a.m. on Sunday, February 11, 2024 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville, with a reception to follow. Interment will take place in the Elm Grove Cemetery at a later date. Donations in memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Meadowview Community Centre, or a charity of choice.

Middleton, NS November 15, 1933 - January 30, 2024 BALCOM, Robert Eugene “Bob” ~ Berwick, Kings Co., passed away at his home peacefully with family on January 30, 2024, at the age of 90. Robert was born and raised in the Nictaux area. As a young adult Bob resided in South Berwick where he married and raised his family. He was a loving and attentive father to his three children. "Bob" was a special kind of man: a kind and compassionate man who emanated a strong and decent character. A loyal and valued member of the Valley Lake and Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club for many years. Bob was a skilled and avid crib player and hard to beat. He also loved his darts and attended Dart night at the Windermere Community Hall weekly. He was an outdoors man who loved to hunt and fish and be in nature and enjoyed his camping immensely. Bob was handy at just about anything, he had a quiet confidence and determination to tackle any project and do it right the first time. He was predeceased by his son, Brian Balcom; brother, George; sisters, Faye and Mary Anne. Surviving is his daughter, Betty Ann Balcom, of Windermere; son, Allan (Joan) Balcom of South Berwick; and grandchildren, Ray Jr. Winkelman, Dezaray Winkelman, Kristopher Balcom, Krena Carey; great grandchildren, Madeline, Victoria and Alexandria. There will be no visitation. Memorial Service will take place at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 10, in Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main St., toll free 1-855-825-3448. Rev. Dorothy Miller officiating, with a reception to follow. Interment in Berwick Cemetery. Flowers are welcome, donations in his memory may be made to Windermere Community Hall.

Truro, NS February 1, 2024 Stephen Albert Richard – 95, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, February 1, 2024, at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born in Charlos Cove, Guysborough County, he was a son of the late Walter and Gertrude (Snyder) Richard. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Madalene (McNutt); brothers, Billy, Pat, Donnie; sisters, Clara, Lockena, Pauline, Maudie. He is survived by his sister, Laura Geddes; sister-in-law, Ruth McNutt; daughter, Monica (Dale) Bennicke; son, Darrell "Butch" (Brenda) Richard; grandchildren, Tyler (Jasmine Alexander) Bennicke, Sarah (Justin) Stewart, Josh (Reanne) Richard, Jenni (Spencer) Keddy; great grandchildren, Chloe and Thea Stewart, Millie and Cliff Keddy. Stephen had many jobs, starting at the age of 13, including at a lobster plant in Pictou, apple picking in the Valley, wheat fields in Saskatchewan, driving taxi, Lewis Hat Factory, Stanfield’s, Andy’s Tire Shop and he retired from his favourite job at Wilson’s Equipment. He was very proud of being a member of Bible Hill Volunteer Fire Brigade with 70 years of service. He made many lifelong friends playing golf, curling, and bowling. Steve and Madalene spent time travelling to Cuba, cruises, exciting trips to Nashville, B.C, Alberta and Nfld as well as their cottage at Economy. They raised their children on Hillcrest Avenue with other family and the best of neighbours who all remain connected by the bonds of shared experiences. Steve enjoyed getting together to sit and tell stories with family and friends. Stephen’s family wish to thank the doctors, nurses and other staff at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, along with VON staff, especially CCA Tawnya, Marie Lewis LPN and the Huckleberry Lane complex community, especially Sharon MacIntyre. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., followed by a Firefighter’s Tribute Service at 1 p.m. and funeral service at 2 p.m. followed by reception, all on Friday, February 9, 2024 at the funeral home. Spring interment in Bible Hill Cemetery, 41 Warren Drive, Bible Hill. No flowers by request, please. If so desired, donations in Stephen’s memory to a charity of choice are welcomed.

Mersey Point, NS February 3, 2024 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret Rose Chafe at the age of 77 years on February 3, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Margaret was the youngest of 6 children born to Aubrey and Pearl (Wamboldt) Hartlen. Margaret will be lovingly remembered for her kindness, her love of people, her friendliness and ability to make friends wherever she went. Margaret was a friend to many, both young and old and valued the many cherished friendships she made over the years especially those of which spanned her lifetime. In her later years, she resided at Hillside Pines Care Home in Bridgewater where she continued to make valued friendships. Margaret is survived by her children, Paul Lloyd (Carla) Ponoka, AB, Tina Powell Bedford, NS, James Lloyd (Theresa) Saint-Marie-de-Kent, NB , stepchildren Nicole Chafe,  Natasha Penney (Shawn),6 grandchildren, 6 step grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Leonard, stepson Shaun, brothers Arnold, Aubrey, Floyd, and sister Myrtle. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of Chandler’s Funeral Home in Liverpool and a family graveside service will be held at a later date.  Online condolences may be made below. A special thank you to the caregivers at Hillside Pines for the love and care provided, especially in Margaret’s last days. Goodbyes are not forever, Goodbyes are not the end, They simply mean I’ll miss you until we meet again.

Kentville, NS January 31, 2024 Dorothy Jean (Burley) MacKeen, 70, of Kentville, passed away peacefully in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. Born in East York, ON, she was a daughter of the late Lorne Burley and Kay (Riley) Faulkner. Prior to retirement, Dorothy worked as a stenographer and account executive. In her later years, she thoroughly enjoyed Coronation Street and true crime shows. Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Angela MacKeen (Jody Tracey); grandchildren, Michael, Paige and Taylor Tracey; great-grandson, Hudson Tracey; and her former husband, Charlie MacKeen. She was predeceased by her parents. Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral service. A Celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 6 in Paddy’s Pub, Kentville. Donations in memory may be made to the Canadian Red Cross. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.

Halifax, NS September 19, 1939 - January 30, 2024 In loving memory of Janet Isobel Rattray Matthews, 84, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, who passed away on January 30, 2024, while living with Alzheimer's and a brief encounter with metastatic breast cancer. Janet was born on September 19, 1939, to Donald Sheppard Rattray and Gwendolyn Gunn Roche in Montreal, Quebec. In 1957, Janet met her first husband, William Wright Badger, at Bishop's University, resulting in the beautiful and athletic quartet of Stacy, Jill, Willy, and Robyn. Other achievements from her time at BU include a legendary basketball hook shot and proudly graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Drama in 1976. A card-carrying member of ACTRA, Janet's theatrical journey featured appearances on SCTV and The Littlest Hobo before embarking on a full-time role at the Bank of Montreal, where she eventually retired. She enjoyed her crosswords, playing Scrabble and writing limericks. Janet cherished her time on Anna Maria Island, FL, snowbirding. Her greatest love was spending time with her family and friends. Janet married another Bishop's grad, a Bishop's son, Peter Matthews, who shared a vibrant life in Toronto surrounded by dear friends. Janet was predeceased by her sister Cathy Ord (Rose), her daughter Stacy Badger (Réal), and husband Peter Matthews and former husband William Badger. She leaves behind adored sisters Sandra (Doug), Martha (Harold), and Priscilla; her children, Jill Badger Caldwell (Cash), Willy Badger (Sumie), and Robyn Badger; treasured grandchildren Thomas Badger (Laura), Hugh Badger-Forand (Lauren), Sho Badger (Nia), Kai Badger and Ruby Badger; along with numerous beloved nephews, nieces, their children, extended step-family and loving relatives. A celebration of Janet’s extraordinary life will be held on June 9, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Whitlock Golf and Country Club, 128 Côte St-Charles, Hudson, QC. To pass on Janet's witty, creative spirit, we invite you to pen a limerick in her honour. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Bishop's University Drama Department https://www.ubishops.ca/alumni-relations-and-philanthropy-office/donate-now/, a fitting tribute to Janet's love for the stage and support for future dramatic talents.

Bridgewater, NS January 8, 1953 - February 2, 2024 BECK, Heather Ann 71, Ray Point Road, Maitland. It is with great sadness that the family of Heather Beck announce her sudden passing on February 2, 2024 in South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater, after a very short battle with cancer. Born January 8, 1953, she is the oldest daughter of Wauneta (Wile) Zinck, Mahone Nursing Home, and the late Earl Zinck. Heathers family was her whole world and she loved everyone dearly. She will be truly missed. Surviving are her husband of 29 years, Wendell Oickle; children Neil Slauenwhite (Karen), Lapland, Natasha Slauenwhite (Greg), Lunenburg, David Beck (Nicole), Pine Grove; stepson Richard Oickle, Wild Cat Road; step-daughter Tara Vatcher, Dartmouth. Heather was blessed to have four beautiful grandchildren: McKenzie Slauenwhite, Ben Wentzell (Kaylee), Alex and Claire Beck; step-grandchildren Camryn Fancy, Sierra Warren Banfield. She was also blessed to become a great grandmother to Layla Wentzell. Also surviving are her brothers and her sister, Perry Zinck (Debbie), Peggy Jefferson (Donnie), Tommy Zinck (Vicki); many nieces, nephews and extended family. Cremation has taken place under the direction of the R.A. Corkum Funeral Home, Wileville. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian cancer society.

Milton, NS February 1, 2024 SMITH – Shirley A., 88, of Milton, Queens County, passed away peacefully in Hillside Pines, Bridgewater on Thursday, February 1, 2024. Born in Liverpool, Shirley was a daughter of the late James H. and Ella (Lowe) Wessell. Shirley was a very active member of the Milton United Baptist Church. She was involved in her community through Eastern Star, Queens General Hospital Auxiliary, Village of Milton Commission, Milton Community Association Auxiliary, 4-H and several more. She enjoyed knitting, sewing, and many forms of crafts. She completed beautiful projects for her home, family and friends. Shirley worked at the Royal Bank, the Bank of Montreal, Earl Illsley’s Service Station and the Milton Post Office. She and Lawrence made the most of their retirement by spending winters in Florida and enjoying cruises with friends. Shirley is survived by her husband Lawrence; her daughter Stephanie (Melvin) MacKenzie of Port Medway, her son David (Paulette) of Charleston. Her grandchildren Adam, Daniel and Alexander. Her sister Elizabeth (Donald) Burns of Liverpool. Visitation will be Sunday afternoon, February 4, 2024 from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. in Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool. An Order of Eastern Star service will be held Monday, February 5, 2024 at 10:45 a.m. followed by funeral service at 11:00 a.m. both in Milton Baptist Church, Milton, NS. Reception to follow in the church vestry. A private family burial will be held at a later date. No flowers by request, donations may be made to Milton Baptist Church, Queens General Hospital Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

Frenchvale, NS September 26, 1936 - January 31, 2024 It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Theresa Musgrave, age 87, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at the Northside General Hospital. Born in Big Beach on September 26, 1936, Theresa was the daughter of the late John and Flora Ann (MacKinnon) MacLean. Theresa was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Frenchvale.  She taught school for many years throughout Cape Breton, retiring in North Sydney at Seton School. She would constantly run into former students while out and about in town and of course, a chat would ensue. She was a very wise and knowing woman who always knew if you were masking the truth. She loved playing the piano and singing Gaelic songs. She loved a good cup of tea, and offering home cooked meals to all and anyone who would enter the house. Most of all, she loved her extensive family, especially her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children - Earl (Marie), Frank (Marilyn), Lynn (Gerard) MacKenzie, Danny, Lorne, Judy (Art) Vaters, Richard (Annette), and her baby, Julie Musgrave (Jamie); son-in-law Patrick McNeil; her 18 grandchildren – Gerard, Ryan, Simon, Davis, Shannon, Chelsea, Brandon, Haley, Dustin, Tyler, Tosha, Victoria, Stephanie, David, Laura, Morgan, Kali (Ryan) and Noah; 16 great-grandchildren – Shelby, Kinsley, Belle, Thomas, Lucy, Bodhi, Evie, Letti, Scotlyn, Mason, Deacon, Ezra, Alonna, Elias, Josiah, and Violet; her sister Ann MacNeil, brother John Andrew “Buddy” MacLean, her special niece Florence, as well as other nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Theresa was also predeceased by her husband, Daniel C. Musgrave; her daughter, Tracy McNeil; son-in-law Jesse MacAulay; daughter-in-law Faye Boudreau, her sisters Katherine and Marilyn MacLean, sister -in-law Cassie MacLean, brother-in-law John Hugh MacNeil. The family would like to extend special thanks to her Homecare workers Agnes Sweeney (who was like a best friend to her), along with Gerry Jessome and Melissa Donovan. Special thanks as well to her palliative care nurse, Julia Penny, as well as doctors Dr. Peter Poulos and Dr. Eugene Ignacio. Visitation for Theresa will be held from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024 in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.  Funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at St. Mary’s Church in Frenchvale. Burial in the church cemetery will take place at a later date.

Dartmouth, NS April 21, 1955 - January 22, 2024 on of Leland and Doris (Wheaton) Bird, Curtis was born on April 21, 1955, in Amherst. He passed away sudden and unexpectedly on January 22, 2024, of heart issues related to his diabetes, in his own bedroom at his son's house, in Dartmouth, at the age of 68. Curtis is survived by a large family who loved him; Including his siblings: Darlene Zelazo; Tom (Cindy) Bird; Sherman Bird. His children: Leland (Heidi) Bird; Robin (Fred) Bird; Waverly (Thomas) Muessle. As well as 6 grandchildren: Evan, William, Emily, Abigail, Brooklyn, Miles. Beyond his family, Curtis was loved and admired by a great many people, and you'd be very hard-pressed to find anyone who could say a single bad thing about him. He loved horses, studying the bible, hockey (the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Halifax Mooseheads), and playing video games. Those who knew him would be pleased to know that his last meal before his death was Tim Hortons. He loved his family more than anything, and didn't care so much about material things, shrugging it off, saying, “You can't take it with you.” There will be two celebration of life events, in the summer. One just for family, and one open to family and friends. Details of dates and times will become available later.