Obituaries

Merritt “Brian” Feltmate

FELTMATE, Merritt “Brian” It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Merritt “Brian” Feltmate, on July 29, 2026, at the age of 73, after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of pancreatic cancer. Brian was diagnosed on May 6, and although his illness progressed far too quickly, he faced it with the same quiet strength, dignity, and determination that defined his life. Brian shared an extraordinary love story with his beloved wife, Marilyn, for 44 years. Throughout Brian’s illness, Marilyn never left his side, surrounding him with the same love and devotion they shared throughout their marriage. He was a devoted father to his children, Andrew (Debbie) and Chelsea, proud Grampie to Gavin and Cora. The highlight of his day was waiting for them to get off the bus. They adored their Grampie, and the love they shared was unmistakable. Anyone who knew Brian knew he had a quick wit and an even quicker one-liner. His sense of humour brightened every room and will be remembered just as fondly as his kindness. Brian was a heavy equipment operator and truck driver for his father for many years. In 2000, he started his own forest and farm business. He also served his community as a volunteer firefighter for more than 25 years, alongside some of his greatest friends. Brian leaves behind his beloved wife, Marilyn (MacLaughlin), children, Andrew (Debbie), Chelsea; grandchildren, Gavin, Cora; sisters, Barbie MacKeen, Shirley Feltmate (Helen); mother-in-law, Beverly MacLaughlin; sisters-in-law, Diane (Podge) White, Joan (Allen) Balcom; Mary Lou MacLaughlin (Mike); brothers-in-law, Jimmy (Kelley) MacLaughlin, Russell (Minnie) MacLaughlin, Billy (Linda) MacLaughlin, Kevin MacLaughlin (Richard); many nieces, nephews and their families; and his extended family and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Merritt and Vera (Mason) Feltmate; father-in-law, Herbie MacLaughlin; and brother-in-law, Wilfred MacKeen. Brian’s family thanks St. Mary’s Continuing Care for their kindness and care while he was at home. During the final days of his life, Brian received exceptional care from the compassionate staff in the palliative care unit at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital. His family will always be grateful for the kindness and comfort they provided during such a difficult time. Visitation was held in the Goshen Community Centre on Saturday, Aug. 1. A family committal service was held in Sunset Cemetery, Argyle. Memorial donations may be made to the Sunset Cemetery, Argyle. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com.

Sheila Jean Veinotte

VEINOTTE, Sheila Jean "Ninnie": It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, at the age of 78, on July 24, 2026, in High-Crest Sherbrooke Home for Special Care. Born to the late Frederick "Ted" and Annie (Walsh) Hayne. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She devoted much of her life to her family as a stay-at-home mother. Over the years, she also worked as a cook at the Goldboro Mine, Shirley’s Canteen, Sherbrooke Nursing Home and Dana’s Restaurant. She was known for the love and care she put into everything she prepared and especially the love she put into decorating her home at Christmas. Sheila found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved baking and cooking for family and friends, playing cards and bingo, working on puzzles and volunteering at her church. She will be remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, and the warmth she shared with everyone who knew her. She is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, Melvin; her daughter, Tanya (Sidney) Joe; her cherished grandchildren, Jenna (Ryan) Hudson; Nathaniel Joe; and her treasured great-grandson, Sylas Hudson. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and their families; as well as many dear friends. She held a special place in her heart for her friend, Vicki Feltmate. Besides her parents, Sheila was predeceased by her beloved grandson, Ethan Joe; brothers, Ralph (Marie), Howard (Josephine), Leonard (Nelsie), Robert, Leo and her sister, who died at birth; and her sister-in-law, Nina. The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at High-Crest Sherbrooke for their compassion and kindness during her time there. They also extend sincere thanks to the staff at St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital for the excellent care and support they provided. Visitation will be held on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, from 1-3 p.m., followed by a funeral service in G.W. Giffin Funeral Home, 17545 Hwy. 316, Country Harbour, with Lewis MacIntosh officiating. Committal service will take place at a later date in Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery, Country Harbour. Family flowers only please. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery Fund C/O Marie Veinotte, 552 Hwy 316 Westside Road, Country Harbour, NS, B0H 1J0. Funeral arrangements are under the dignified and compassionate care of G.W. Giffin Funeral Home, 17545 Hwy 316, Country Harbour. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com.

Stewart “Stew” Kimball Wilmott

WILMOTT, Stewart "Stew" Kimball: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stewart, at the age of 61, on Thursday, July 30, 2026. He was born in Sherbrooke, a son of the late Henry Wilmott and Dorothy (MacIntosh), and step-father, Murray Fleet. Stew was a free spirit, well known for his many hats, including a chicken hat. Not a look most people can pull off, but he did it well. He loved landscaping and gardening in his yard. Stew was always helping people in his community and very involved in the Sherbrooke Saturday Market. He is survived by his partner, Gabriela Schupbach, Sherbrooke; daughters, Tysha (Jamie) Schofield, Centerville; Leanza Wilmott (Ryan), Elderbank; grandchildren, Owen, Octavia, Ronan, Bianca; brothers, Gary (Hertha), Sherbrooke; Chris (Karen), Antigonish; sisters, Lori-Anne, Dartmouth; Michelle, Tracey (Ryan), both of Grande Prairie, Alberta; many nieces and nephews and their families. Stew was predeceased by brothers, Travis, Dennis, and Roy. We hope you’ll attend the concert on Thursday, Aug. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Heritage Park, Sherbrooke, in Stew’s honour, celebrating his life while supporting Gabby and the family. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gwgiffin.com.