CHIASSON
Joseph Gelase Chiasson, age 70, of Cheticamp, passed away on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026, in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney. Gelase was a son of the late Lubin “Lubie” and the late Louise Anne (Roach) Chiasson. Gelase was a man whose life was defined by quiet strength, a generous heart, and a sharp sense of humor. He met the world with empathy, always ready to listen, to understand, and to offer comfort without judgment. People felt at ease around him because he genuinely cared – and because he could always make them smile. He carried a deep positivity with him, even through life’s hardest moments. Gelase believed in finding the good, in encouraging others, and in facing challenges head-on with resilience and hope. His toughness was not loud or showy – it was steady, dependable, and rooted in perseverance. Gelase loved to joke around and pick on the people he cared about most, never with malice but always with affection. He had a quick wit and a playful grin, and he could give it just as well as he could take it. Laughter was one of the ways he connected with others, and it was often his way of showing love. Generosity came naturally to Gelase. He gave freely of his time, his energy, and his compassion, always putting others before himself. Whether through small acts of kindness or steadfast support, he made a lasting difference in the lives of many. Above all, Gelase was a devoted father whose love was constant and unconditional. His values, strength, humor, and warmth will continue to live on through the people he touched. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and humanity that will not be forgotten. Gelase will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Gelase is survived by his son, Bruno Chiasson; daughter, Caroline Chiasson; brothers, James (Diane) Chiasson, and Louis Paul (Ginette) Chiasson; sister, Hilda (Yvon Bourgeois) Chiasson; grandchildren, Noah Chiasson, Meredith Chiasson, Wyatt Chiasson, and Brielle Chiasson. A graveside service will take place at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Autism Nova Scotia. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cheticamp Funeral Services Ltd. Condolences may be made to: www.cheticampfuneralservices.ca.
CLARKIN
Rose-Ann Clarkin (Walker) was the first born to John James Walker and Anna Helen Walker (Pinko), followed by four siblings. Rose-Ann was born in British Columbia, and moved home to Cape Breton as a teenager. She took the secretarial program in her early years and ran a number of businesses; both alongside her mother, as well as independently. During this time, her remarkable organization and strategic planning skills were crucial to her many successes. Rose-Ann was the epitome of strength and determination. She raised her three children, Blaze (Clarkin), Rhonda (Wiswell), and Bobby (Wiswell), and helped to raise her grandson, Bryson (MacDonald). She was a very active mom, always on the go, on an adventure somewhere. Her love for kids and babies was evident in her unwavering support for her family. She loved to travel, and had been to Spain, Norway, Costa Rica, India, as well as other countries, and travelled all over Canada and the United States. In the early 2000s, Rose-Ann studied the Continuing Care Assistant program at NSCC, where she was able to demonstrate her passion for helping others in her career. A very generous and big-hearted woman, Rose-Ann did anything she could to help anyone in need. The woman who was always unstoppable, even in her long battle with cancer, left us on February 1st, 2026. She leaves us to join her predeceased mother and father; leaving behind her three children, and six grandchildren. Forever loved, forever missed.
LeBLANC
Evelyne LeBlanc, aged 98, of Chéticamp, passed away on Friday, February 6th, 2026. Evelyne was the oldest daughter of Francis Deveau and Catherine Arsenault. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Willie LeBlanc (1993), sister Zabeth, (2023) and brother Bernie (1981). She is survived by her sister, Thérèse Aucoin (Chéticamp); and her brother, Father Daniel Deveau (Moncton). Also left in mourning are her five children, Gisèle, Guillaume, Ginette (Louis-Paul), Géraldine and Gilles (Colleen); her eight grandchildren, Christine (Robert), Stéphane (Anna), Danielle (Darrell), Ken (Melissa), Frances (Bryan), Claude (Riea), Robert (Josée) and Natalie (Shannon); as well as several great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews who all had a very special place in her heart. Evelyne was very involved in her community and was always ready to defend her Acadian heritage. She served on the boards of several local organizations and was a long-time member of l’Association des Acadiennes de la Nouvelle-Écosse. She was a volunteer radio host at CKJM Radio for 22 years and was honoured with the grade of Chevalier de l’Ordre de la Pléiade for her efforts at promoting and preserving the Acadian language and culture. Evelyne’s family wish to sincerely thank the doctors and staff at Sacred Heart Community Health Centre for their excellent care, especially during the last year. Thanks also to the staff of Continuing Care, Evelyne Doyle for help in coordinating, as well as the home care team, Lisa, Tammy and Dana who came to help with her bath. A big thank you also goes out to the staff and volunteers of Meals on Wheels. Finally, a huge thank you to her personal carer, Darlene Poirier, who has become like a fourth daughter. Your help and support during these last months are very, very much appreciated. A funeral mass will be celebrated in St. Peter’s Church, Cheticamp at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we welcome donations to Sacred Heart Community Centre Auxiliary or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Cheticamp Funeral Services Ltd. Condolences may be sent to: www.cheticampfuneralservices.ca.
MILLER
John Russel Miller, 74, of Antigonish: It’s with broken hearts that we, the family of John Russell Miller, announce his passing on February 10th, 2026, in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Born in New Glasgow on December 26th, 1951, John was a son of the late John and Priscilla (Moore) Miller. John grew up in Antigonish where he worked as a cook for a number of years, at Wongs, Mother Webb’s, and Chuggles to name a few. He loved his walks and watching the hockey games, especially the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was very proud of his son and had a special place in his heart for his two grandsons. He looked forward to their visitis and always had a treat for them. John is survived by his son, Zachary (Vanessa); grandsons, Joseph and Jack, Antigonish; and son, Craig, Ontario; brothers, Barry (Ramona), Inverness; Roger (Lisa), Stewiacke; sister, Karen (Jerry), Timberlea; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Besides his parents,he was predeceased by his wife, Fran Nunn; and his daughter, Crystal. Cremation has taken place. Visitation took place on Monday, February 16th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish. Funeral Service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17th, in St. James United Church, Antigonish, with Reverend Peter Smith presiding. Burial will take place at a later date. In memory of John, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, or in true John fashion, please do a favour for a friend or neighbour. Online condolences at www.clcurry.com.