CAMPBELL
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kathy” Roseanne Campbell (Ward) 82, of East Lake Ainslie, Nova Scotia. Kathleen passed away peacefully with family by her side on February 3rd, 2026, at the Inverary Manor (Nursing Home) in Inverness. She faced Alzheimer’s with courage, grace, and resilience. At her side throughout her journey, was her devoted husband, Hugh. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Inverary Manor, whose care went far beyond their duties. They became friends to Grandma, treating her with tenderness, respect, and genuine affection, and were truly invested in her comfort, dignity, and well-being. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the other residents of Sea Breeze Villa, whose kindness, companionship, and friendship became an important part of Grandma’s days and her journey. Proud of her Irish roots, Kathleen was born in Limerick, Republic of Ireland on July 27th, 1943. She was predeceased by her mother, Angela Ward, her sister, Margaret and her brother, Edward. Kathleen is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 37 years, Hugh Campbell of East Lake Ainslie; her daughters Catherine (Vito), Judy (Eric), and Kim of Toronto; her stepdaughter Jill (Vince) and stepson Milton; her cherished grandchildren Nichola (Jack), Noah, Meghan, Liam, Robyn, Kale, Leah, Desiree (Andrew), Nathan, Milton, Samantha (Jordan), Kelsey (Nathan); and her treasured great-grandchildren Andi, Alex, Nash, Dax, Dani, and Anastasia. She is also remembered fondly by her dear best friend, Ev. Kathleen worked for many years with great dedication at the TD Bank head office in Toronto. Coming to Canada at just 17, Kathleen carved out a life for herself and her girls who were her pride and joy. As life went on, Kathleen reconnected with the man who would be the love of her life, Hugh Campbell. In 1988, Kathleen and Hugh started their married life together in East Lake Ainslie. From here, they embarked on many adventures including camping, vacationing in Florida, visits to Ireland, time spent in Toronto, taking part in community events (especially parades), and simply enjoying life together. She quickly became part of the community in Inverness County. Kathleen was a dedicated volunteer at the Inverness Food Bank for decades. Additionally, she worked for 17 years at the Shean Co-op in Inverness, and was the treasurer for the Alexander Grant United Church for 10 years. In other moments, Kathleen enjoyed walks along the shores of beautiful Lake Ainslie, attending fitness classes, cooking for loved ones, and was delighted by any and all children she encountered. She also valued luncheons with the Tuesday girls – Heather, Verna, Georgi, Connie and Bea. Kathleen’s nurturing spirit, unwavering support, and boundless love will forever live in the hearts of her family and friends. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled. Though she is gone, the life she built and the love she shared will be carried forward in every heart she touched. A service and burial will take place in July 2026 at the East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church, with further details to be announced. The service will be officiated by Reverend Karen MacNeil and Reverend Janice MacLean. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Inverary Manor Nursing Home, the Lake Ainslie Fire Department, or the charity of choice.
Irish Blessing
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
DEVEAU
The family is sad to announce the passing of Herman Charles Deveau, 66, of Belle Cote, Cape Breton Island, who passed away on February 8th, 2026, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, surrounded by loved ones. Born December 10th, 1959, in Cheticamp, Herman was a son of the late Adelaide (LeBlanc) Deveau. He was raised in Belle Cote and carried his love of home anywhere life took him. Cape Breton was always where his heart belonged. Herman began his working life fishing out of the Belle Cote Wharf, where values of community, resilience, and pride were built. Later, he headed to Fort McMurray, where he built a long career as a heavy machine operator and supervisor, working at various sites before retiring in 2024. Even in retirement, he wasn’t one to sit still for long. He returned home to Belle Cote and worked as an on-call driver with L’Acabie in Cheticamp, glad to be back among familiar roads and faces. He was predeceased by his parents, Adelaide and Gerry. Herman leaves behind his daughters, Cassey and Caithlin (Walter), who were a constant source of pride; and his cherished granddaughter, Leighna, whom he adored. After receiving a life-saving lung transplant in 2022, he was thankful for four more years – years he used to make memories, especially with his granddaughter. He also leaves behind his brothers and sisters, Johnny (Linda), Junior (Cecile), Ella (Frank), Lucy (Lawrence), and Ann (Ross); along with extended family across Canada and the US, and a wide circle of friends across the Island and beyond. Herman had a strong presence and enjoyed conversation and storytelling wherever he went. He loved a good laugh and connecting with people. Music was at the centre of his life. He played guitar, sang with heart, and started a weekly jam at the local firehall so musicians could gather and share an evening together while fundraising for Margaree Meals on Wheels. He enjoyed a lively game of crib, whether at local tournaments or around the kitchen table. He was known for his competitive spirit and love of the game, but it was always the laughter and camaraderie that mattered most. A devoted sports fan, he proudly supported the Montreal Canadiens and held spirited rivalries with family members each year as playoffs began. He was also a loyal Toronto Blue Jays fan and rarely missed the chance to watch hockey, baseball, or golf. Herman was proud to give back to his community. He was involved with the Belle Cote Days committee and could often be found helping prepare chicken fricot for community gatherings – happy to lend a hand wherever it was needed. In gratitude for the lung transplant that extended his life, Herman became an organ donor himself. His family encourages others to consider registering as organ donors, donating blood, or supporting the Canadian Transplant Association in his memory. Cremation has taken place. Herman will be laid to rest in Saint Michael’s Cemetery, East Margaree, beside his mother. A celebration of life will be held in July 2026, with the date to be announced. He was proud of his family, and proud to call Cape Breton home. He will be missed in Belle Cote and beyond and remembered whenever the music plays and the crib board comes out. As a tribute to Herman, take the time to enjoy a Belle Cote sunset, drink a good cup of tea, and listen to John Prine. Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com.
FRASER
John Lean Fraser, February 19th, 1946 – February 17th, 2026: Born on February 19th, 1946, in Inverness, Nova Scotia, John was the son of Alexander and Louise (MacKay) Fraser. Raised in Cape Breton, he often spoke of an idyllic childhood on the family farm with his brothers and his grandfather, John L., whose influence shaped many of the stories he would later tell. John left home to attend the Nova Scotia Agricultural College and began his career with the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture. With the love of his life, Anne (Bulloch), he began building a life in Nova Scotia before settling in Sudbury, where they raised their family. Anne was the heart and steady rhythm of every chapter. In Sudbury, John worked for the City of Sudbury in the Parks and Recreation Department, leaving a lasting mark, particularly through his management of the Sudbury Arena. The countless hours at the iconic old barn became the source of endless material for a big man with even bigger stories. Retirement was anything but idle. John earned a Master of Theology and became an ordained minister in The United Church of Canada. In ministry, he found renewed purpose and the opportunity to serve others through faith and fellowship. John was a devoted father to Lee (Cara Rinaldi) and Christy (Mike McPhail), and a proud grandfather to Alexander, Andrew, and Adam Fraser. He is also survived by his brothers Lee (Ruby) and Eric (Sharon), along with his nieces April, Erica, Michelle, and nephew Brent, and their families. His love for his family was steadfast and deep. John’s stories were legendary. He never chose a short one when a longer one would do. They usually took the scenic route and occasionally included a creative stretch or two along the way. He was fiercely proud of his roots in Inverness and of his life in Sudbury, speaking of both with affection and admiration. His stories had a way of romanticizing the places and people he loved, amplifying their greatness and inviting others to see it, too. They were sometimes embellished, but the enthusiasm, humor, and heart with which they were shared ensure they will be missed as much as the man himself. He wrote the final page of his story two days shy of his 80th birthday, with his children by his side, with grace, dignity, bravery, and faith, and on his own terms. Though his passing closes the final chapter, it does not close the book on John Fraser. As long as family and friends continue to share his stories and smile at the memories, his voice will remain among us. Please share your stories of John and consider a gesture of generosity to a charity close to your heart. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
FRASER
Doris Fraser, age 69, of Pleasant Bay: With heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the sudden but peaceful passing of Doris Genevieve (Fitzgerald) Fraser on Friday, February 6th, 2026 at Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney, surrounded by her immediate family. Doris was the daughter of the late Emery and the late Mary (Barron) Fitzgerald, born on May 2nd, 1956 in Neil’s Harbour. She spent her early years growing up in Dingwall, where she went to school and made many friends. She graduated from Cabot High School and then started her family in Dingwall, before later moving to Pleasant Bay with her husband and children in 1986. Her love for, and commitment to, her community started in her younger years in Dingwall, where she did a variety of volunteering which included teaching catechism classes to many. Her extraordinary community involvement came with her to Pleasant Bay, where she worked tirelessly over the years on so many committees. She was always there both behind the scenes – planning events and chairing meetings, as well as working first hand – participating in fundraising concerts, community clean ups and dressing up as our clown on Canada Day. She was a constant and dependable volunteer, as she gave her time whenever and wherever she could and usually included a family member or two with her. Her most passionate contribution to the community was her unwavering commitment to the Whale Interpretive Centre and the Friends of Whale Watch Cape Breton’s board. Her dedication and contributions will not be forgotten. Doris was always there to give a helping hand to anyone who needed it. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but most importantly by her family, whom she loved unconditionally. Her greatest joy was having the title of Grandma and loved spending as much time as she could with her grandchildren. She enjoyed going on vacations to warm destinations and making many great memories. The only part she didn’t like was having to leave her animals home when she left, even though they always had their very own sitter. Her love for animals was unlike anyone else’s. There was always a family pet in her home, normally more than just one, and she has passed this love of animals on to her family as well. Doris was truly one of a kind. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 48 years, Walt; son, Justin (Stephanie); daughter, Sarah (Sheldon); grandchildren, Ethan, Miranda, Aaron, and Mason; siblings and family, Timmy (Adam, Matthew, Breanna, Colton, Brooklyn), Hughie (Yvette), Darryl (Morgan), Joyce (Scott, Chet); in-laws and family: Ricky (Paulette, Craig, Jenna), Juanita (Wayne, Travis, Mandy, Brent); and her special friend and niece Amarlis (Shane, Byron). Also left to grieve are many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who were like family. Besides her parents, Emery and Mary Fitzgerald, she was predeceased by her in-laws, Lester and Sandra Fraser; and her half-siblings, John, Angus, Marie, Liza, Joan, and Peggy. In lieu of flowers, and to honour her legacy of helping and giving, donations can be made to a charity of your choice. Cremation has already taken place. Visitation was held on Friday, February 20th, 2026, in St. Andrew’s United Church, Pleasant Bay from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. Funeral mass was celebrated on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Dingwall, with Father Johas officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Pleasant Bay Cemetery, Pleasant Bay. Following the service, there was a light luncheon at the lower level of the Whale Interpretive Centre, Pleasant Bay. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cheticamp Funeral Services Ltd. Condolences may be made to: www.cheticampfuneralservices.ca.
ROACH
Charles Daniel (Charlie Dan) Roach, March 23rd, 1948 – February 19th, 2026: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Charlie Dan Roach on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, at the age of 77, at the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre in Chéticamp. Born in Chéticamp, he was the son of the late Frédéric “Freddie” Roach and the late Hélène (Bourgeois) Roach. Charlie Dan graduated from NDA School in 1964 at the young age of 16. He then pursued his studies at St. Francis Xavier University, in mathematics and physics before beginning a teaching career that spanned 31 years, serving the students of his native village. In retirement, he devoted his energy and passion to the history and genealogy of families in the Acadian region of Chéticamp. A volunteer at the Père-Charles-Aucoin Genealogy Centre for more than 40 years, Charlie Dan played a pivotal role in the promotion, preservation, and transmission of our collective heritage. Always available, welcoming, and generous with his time, he guided and assisted visitors with patience, diligence, and kindness, sharing a wealth of rich and valuable knowledge. A dedicated author, he published Nos Aucoin de Chéticamp in 2004, as well as a booklet in 1993 on the history of Saint-Pierre Church, prepared on the church’s 100th anniversary. Charlie Dan also held a deep attachment to our Acadian traditions, particularly Mi-Carême, which he cherished and enthusiastically supported year after year. For many years, he served with devotion as choir director at Paroisse Saint-Pierre in Chéticamp. Through his musical leadership and his ability to bring voices together, he enriched liturgical celebrations and touched the hearts of many parishioners. He was also highly involved with the community radio station CKJM, where he hosted programs, helped organize special events, and contributed to the smooth operation of Radio Bingos. In 2025, he received the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his exceptional commitment to his community. Charlie Dan leaves to mourn his sister, Annie Mae Camus; his niece, Denise (Robin) Street; his nephew, Steve (Sandra) Camus; as well as several other nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Joseph Luc, and his brother-in-law, Eddie Joe Camus. The family sincerely thanks Dr. Michel Chiasson, as well as the nurses and all staff at the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre, for their attentive care. Special thanks also to the volunteers of the Meals on Wheels program and to the staff of the Home Care program for their valuable support. Visitation will take place beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 26th, 2026, at Église Saint-Pierre in Chéticamp. The celebration will be presided over by Father Jaison Cheriya, assisted by Deacon Gerald LeBlanc. Burial will take place at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to La Société Saint-Pierre (for the benefit of the Genealogy Centre) or to Paroisse Saint-Pierre. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cheticamp Funeral Services Ltd. Condolences may be made to: www.cheticampfuneralservices.ca.