Obituaries

Seward Thomas Benoit

Mulgrave

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Seward Thomas Benoit, 72, on October 17, in St Martha’s Regional Hospital after a brief illness. Born on January 31, 1953, he was the oldest son of the late James and Helena (DeCoste) Benoit.

Dad dedicated more than 35 years to working with the Canadian Coast Guard and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, specializing in environmental response, often committing weeks and months to major oil spills both at home and internationally. He was a former member of the Mulgrave Volunteer Fire Department, where he served for more than 30 years, including time as deputy chief and fire chief, with lasting memories and close personal relationships with many. Dad enjoyed his NASCAR races, snowmobile runs in his earlier years, faithful trips to Riverside Speedway with Jim, and doing whatever had to be done in the yard. He always lent a hand and an ear to whoever needed it, oftentimes without having to be asked. He took great pride in his extended family and always made sure everyone felt happy and loved around him.

Dad will always be lovingly remembered by his children, Jason, Halifax; Kathlyn and Stephen, both of Mulgrave; their mother, Brenda; grandchildren, Sierra, Owen, Grace, Violet and Rose. He will be deeply missed by his siblings, Diane (Gerard), Durham, Pictou County; Basil (Cathy), Mulgrave; and Darlene (Ronald), Mulgrave; nieces and nephews, Laurie, Denise, Amanda, Anthony, Natalie, Christopher, Nicholas, Daniel, Selena, Jenna and Bryson; special aunts, Anna Ryan, Mulgrave; and Marie DeCoste, Antigonish; and many close friends.

The family thanks Drs. Simms and Fogarty, along with all staff, for their excellent care and compassion during Dad’s illness.

As per Dad’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place; a graveside service and burial will take place 1 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2025, in St. Lawrence Roman Catholic Cemetery, Mill St., Mulgrave, with Deacon Berkley Guthro officiating; with all who wish to attend. A reception will follow the burial in the Mulgrave Fire Hall, 385 Murray St., Mulgrave.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Homes, Port Hawkesbury. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com

“Your wings were ready but our hearts were not”

Trudy Lynn Cormier

1955 – 2025

With heavy hearts, the family of Trudy Lynn Cormier announces her passing on Friday, October 17, 2025, at her home. Born on March 7, 1955, in Fredericton, she was a daughter of the late Murray and Ramona Higgins.

From a young age Trudy was always eager to help and care for others, taking care of people was her biggest passion. This led to a successful nursing career, which started at St. Martha’s in Antigonish, and eventually took her to the burn unit in Saint John Regional Hospital in New Brunswick. Trudy was also a proud and dedicated Girl Guide leader, inspiring countless young girls with her enthusiasm, resourcefulness, and generous heart. She believed in nurturing confidence and curiosity in others, always leading by example with strength, kindness, and a touch of fun.

Known fondly by many as “the cool mom,” “Truds” had a unique ability to connect with people of all ages. Her home was a welcoming place, filled with laughter and creativity. Her children and their friends knew they could count on her — for advice, a ride, or just a listening ear.

She shared an especially close bond with her sister, Monica, a connection that brought immeasurable joy and strength to both their lives. Whether sharing stories, laughter, or quiet moments, their love for one another was evident to all who knew them.

A creative soul, Trudy expressed herself in many forms — from crafting and painting to storytelling and thoughtful gifts made with love. Her passion for beauty and detail found its way into everything she touched.

Trudy also had a deep love of travel and adventure. Alongside her family, she explored new places with curiosity and joy, creating memories that will be cherished forever. No matter the journey, Trudy embraced every experience with open arms and an open heart.

Trudy is survived by her children, Emma Cormier, William ‘Bill’ (Cassandra Martin); her granddaughter, Airyana Martin; and her late partner John’s son, Joey Mullin.

She was predeceased by her parents, Murray and Ramona Higgins; her sister, Monica Fulton; her son, Justin ‘Scoopy’ Cormier; her former husband, Michael Cormier; and her partner, John Mullin.

The family thanks the tenants in Trudy’s building for their friendship and support over the last 13 years.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424). A graveside service will be held at Ocean View Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Condolences may be made at https://www.brenansfh.com.

Donald Archibald Fraser

1953 – 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Donald “Donnie” Archibald Fraser, 71, announce his passing on October 20, 2025.

Donnie will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Norah Fraser (Rankin); his children, Rachel Fraser (Christopher MacDonald), Ian Fraser (Marian), and Aaron Fraser (Astra); and his cherished grandchildren, Braden, Chase, Fraser, Brooklynn, Danica, and Charlie, who all inherited his love of fun and adventure.

He is survived by his brothers, Chris Fraser (Krista) and Charles Fraser (Maureen); and by many nieces and nephews. Donnie was predeceased by his parents, Scott and Violet Fraser; and his sister, Darlene Fraser.

A proud lifelong resident of Sherbrooke, Donnie spent his career working at the family-owned Sherbrooke Garage. Though he dedicated countless hours to the business, he often joked that he’d been “semi-retired since the day he finished school,” doing the work he loved every day.

Donnie found his greatest joy in the outdoors—boating on the river with family, exploring the trails by ATV or snowmobile, and camping with friends. His easy laughter and boundless energy made every outing memorable. Donnie loved entertaining family and friends and tinkering in his happy place, “The Shed.”

Deeply committed to his community, Donnie served with passion on the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s council for 16 years, and was an active member of many local organizations, including the St. John’s United Church, St. Mary’s District Lions Club, Sherbrooke and Area Volunteer Fire Department, St. Mary’s River Boat Club, and St. Mary’s ATV Club, among many others. His generosity, good humour, and dedication to helping others have left a lasting mark on Sherbrooke and all who knew him.

He will be remembered for his endless enthusiasm for life, his willingness to lend a hand, and his unwavering love for family and friends. He loved to be part of any fun, and was often described as “the biggest kid in any crowd.”

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many healthcare professionals who supported Donnie throughout his three-year cancer journey, including St. Martha’s Regional Hospital and Cape Breton Regional Hospital hematology department, with special appreciation to the staff of St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital.

Visitation was October 24 at St. John’s United Church, Sherbrooke. A funeral service followed on October 25, with Rev. Derek Ellsworth officiating.

Friends and family were invited to a reception following the service at the Sherbrooke Lions Hall.

A private family burial took place in Riverside Cemetery, Sherbrooke.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Donnie’s name may be made to: St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital, 91 Hospital Road, Sherbrooke, NS, B0J 3C0, or St. John’s United Church, 8107 Marine Drive, Sherbrooke, NS, B0J 3C0.

Online condolences: www.angusfuneralhomes.com

Frederick William Hirschfeld

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Frederick William Hirschfeld, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend, who left us on October 18, 2025. Fred was a man of strength and deep compassion. He lived his life with unwavering dedication to family and to others, always putting their needs before his own. His work ethic was second to none–he approached every task, big or small, with pride, determination, and integrity. Those who knew him admired not only his hard work, but also his kindness, generosity, and humility. He was a person you could always count on–a steady hand, a listening ear, and a helping heart. Whether it was lending a tool, offering advice, or simply showing up when someone needed support, Fred never hesitated to help. Above all, Fred was a devoted family man. His joy came from his loved ones–his wife, Michelle, and daughter, Merissa, who were his pride and purpose. Fred is also survived by his beloved mother, Doreen Hirschfeld; brothers, Dennis, Joey, Vincent (Donna) and Eric; sisters, Sharlene (Roy) and Crissy (Jeff); many nieces, nephews and their families. He was predeceased by his father, Fred Hirschfeld; sister, Bertha-Anne; and brother, Jason. Freddie was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit, kindness, and love will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends. Fred’s family thanks EHS, Life Flight and the Halifax Infirmary intensive care unit for their care and compassion. In keeping with Fred’s wishes there will be no visitation or service. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Rest peacefully, Fred. Your love, strength, and selflessness will never be forgotten. Arrangements are under the dignified and compassionate care of G.W. Giffin Funeral Home, St. Mary’s Chapel, 34 Main St, Sherbrooke. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com.

Harold Jones Langley

LANGLEY, Harold Jones, 77, of Murphy Cove, Tangier, Halifax County passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025 at home. Born in Mt. Vernon, P.E.I., he was a son of the late Everett and Marjorie (Acorn) Langley. Dad was a good man with a big heart. He’d help anyone who needed it. Dad’s nickname was “Hurricane”, which came from being the man to call for clean-up after a hurricane. He was a professional woodcutter all his life, receiving awards and certificates and winning woodcutting competitions. Even in his retirement he couldn’t put the chainsaw down. He loved people calling needing help with downed trees or blocking firewood. He told me countless times, “I love it, just love it.” Dad loved to play guitar, sing and have a good time. He loved playing cards, especially cribbage; playing horseshoes and washer toss and wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to say “let me show you how it’s done.” He loved to hunt, especially with Joey, and going fishing. Harold is survived by his daughter, Donna, Country Harbour; sons, Joey, New Town; Russell, New Town; Cory, Lismore; stepsons, Josh Moir, Stream Lake Road, Halifax County; Roy Moir, Musquodoboit Harbour, Halifax County; grandchildren, Cynthia Keeler (Robert MacDonald), Michelle Keeler (Andrew Langille), Delia Silver, Jace Silver; step-grandchildren, Amelia, Christopher, Aubree, Candice, John; great-grandchildren, Leland Mahar, Dierks Keeler, Nina MacDonald; brothers, Lorne (Mary), Stuart (Sharon), Dougie (Debbie); sisters, Ethel Langley, Helen King; many nieces, nephews and their families. Harold was predeceased by his brother, Everett “Evie” and sister, Mabel. A celebration of life will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2025, in the Country Harbour Gun Club, 16740 Hwy 316, Country Harbour. The sharing of memories and music will begin at 3 p.m. with Lewis MacIntosh officiating. Please come to the service in “Dad style” – dress casual. Donations in Harold’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada at 1200-2300 Yonge St., Box 2414, Toronto, ON, M4P 1E4, or donortifo@heartandstroke.ca. Funeral arrangements are under the dignified and compassionate care of G.W. Giffin Funeral Home, 17545 Highway 316, Country Harbour. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com.

George Leslie “Les” Veno

1939 – 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Leslie George Veno, who left this world on October 22, 2025, in St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Antigonish.

Born on March 28, 1939, in Bloomfield, PEI, Leslie was the cherished son of John and Angelina (Barnard) Veno.

Les is survived by his partner, Lillian; son, Kevin; grandson, Sam; brother, Nelson; sisters, Bertha, Thelma, Shirley, Diane, and Barb; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his wife, Erma, mother of Kevin; brothers, Wilford and Johnny; sister, Doreen; and three infant sisters, Zita, Eleanor, and Mary.

The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the caring and compassionate staff in the palliative care unit at St. Martha’s Hospital, the VON, and Antigonish Homecare.

In keeping with Les’s wishes, there will be no service at this time. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will take place at a future date in PEI.

In memoriam, donations to St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation (palliative care unit) are appreciated.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of C.L. Curry Funeral Home, Antigonish.

Online condolences: www.clcurry.com