CLARKE, RONALD R. - Ronald Clarke, Halifax, formerly of Saint John and New Canaan, New Brunswick passed away peacefully October 7, 2013 with his wife Sharon at his side. He is survived by his wife Sharon, children Sam (Gail) Clarke, Toronto, Ont.; Susan (Kendall) French, Hampton, N.B.; beloved granddaughters Alexandra and Caitlyn French; brothers Gerald (Linda) Clarke; Robert (Helen) Clarke; sister Joanne (Leonard) Sleeper, all of New Brunswick as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Ron is predeceased by his parents Ralph and Muriel Clarke. Ron was born and raised on the family farm in New Canaan, N.B. and never lost his love for the land. At the age of 17 he started his banking career with the Bank of Nova Scotia in Havelock, N.B. He worked for the Bank of Nova Scotia for over 40 years with a successful career that spanned two continents, retiring in Halifax in 1996. Ron was an avid gardener, collector, and barbeque chef. He could always be counted on to help his friends and neighbours in whatever way he could, whether it be advise on how to grow tomatoes to making great compost. Gatherings on his back deck or in the Sunroom to discuss the latest events both local and national were legendary. He gave to the community and loved to be Santa at the Children’s Christmas parties both in Saint John, N.B. and Hammonds Plains, N.S. where he lived. Ron was also actively involved with Loyalist Days in Saint John, N.B. and served on other numerous committees throughout his lifetime. Ron’s quiet manner, welcoming nature and big heart endeared him to all he met. He was the “Voice of Reason” to many who knew him and possessed a knowledgeable outlook on so many aspects of life. He will be remembered by all.
The family will receive visitors Saturday, October 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at J. A. Snow Funeral Home at 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax, (455-0531). Funeral Services will be held Monday, October 14, 2013 at 2 p.m. in the New Canaan Church in New Canaan, New Brunswick. Donations in memory of Ron may be made to the Parkinson’s Society. Online condolences to www.jasnowfuneralhome.com. The family would like to thank the staff of the QEII Health Sciences Centre, the Victoria General Hospital and Bayshore Nursing for their care and compassion.