Astles, Raymond – 84, Upper Onslow, passed away at the Colchester Regional Hospital on August 31, 2012 after a brief illness. Born in New Carlisle, Quebec, he was a son of the late John and Margaret Astles. Raymond was known for love for family and friends and his strong faith. He worked for many years as a plumber, then at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College until his retirement. Ray, as he would introduce himself, always had a warm smile for friends and neighbours who would drop by, and loved to talk with others. After his beloved wife Georgina passed away last year, Ray learned to cook, and even made his favourite dessert of raisin pie. He was a enthusiastic singer during Sunday services at the People's Church and thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship of his church family. Raymond will be dearly missed by his beloved sons David and Stephen (Kim); adored grandchildren, Tasha, Jason and Leah; sister Mabel, sisters-in-law, Edith Tarrant (Norm), and Beulah Benwell (Richard); brother-in-law, John Hottot; nieces, Julie Tomlinson (Scott) and Rachel Benwell, nephews, Dean Tarrant and Chris Benwell; great-niece Emily-Ann Tarrant and great-nephews, Kyle Tarrant and Jesse Tomlinson. The funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2 PM at the Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street, Truro, Pastor Ken Filmore officiating. Interment to follow. Family flowers only. Donations in his memory may be made to the Palliative Care Unit of the Colchester Regional Hospital. The family would also like to extend a special thanks to their extraordinary friends Susan and Ralph Gosby, and Sandra and Barry Mellish for all their love and support. The staff at the Colchester Regional Hospital provided superb care and we would like to thank them for their kindness during this difficult time. On-line condolences may be made at www.colchestercommunity.com