FERGUSON, David- 59, passed away suddenly in Pictou on February 9, 2016.
He was the son of the late James B. and Hazel P. (Logan) Ferguson.
After studying at both Mt. Allison and Saint Mary's Universities, Dave worked with the N.S. Dept. of Transportation and N.S. Dept. of Environment, retiring in 2014.
His dream, at the young age of 10of being a firefighter, was not only accomplished but surpassed as he was an integral part of the Pictou Fire Department for 30 years and as a NFPA certified firefighter, and was appointed its Safety Officer in 2000.
Dave was dedicated to fulfilling any and all responsibilities in serving both the community of Firemen and the Citizens of Pictou Town, County, plus the Province of N.S. He was constantly upgrading his certifications and deservedly stood proudly as a member of the Town's Volunteer Fire Department, whose members greatly mourn his loss together with those members of its closely affiliated Legion.
Dave loved Pictou and the Seacrest area of the former family summer home (near town). He cherished moments with book in hand at the beach and coveted nature walks, especially along the seashore with the family dog, or his beloved pet (dog) 'Oreo' (who never missed a fire call either!).
Dave contributed greatly to the community and participated in countless volunteer activities over his 59 short years. These included The Pictou Lobster Carnival, where he held multiple positions during his lifetime. Dave was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 16, Pictou and one of Dave's lifetime hobbies was that of being a Certified Fireworks' Operator since 2010 and he shared his interest with a caucus of other members across the Maritimes. They too are mourning his loss.
Dave was very empathetic, a person with integrity, extremely intelligent and a mechanical genius in regards to repairs to various dysfunctional motors, engines and appliances.
After retirement, Dave also very much enjoyed his work as Manager of the Pictou Hector Marina and will be greatly missed. His naturally acquired interests and skills regarding ships and boats led to an enviable and highly respected knowledge by those in the marine fired where he was very well regarded. Whatever task Dave undertook, he put his heart and soul into it. He could always be counted upon. The job would not only be accomplished, but would be superlative. He epitomized the celebration of life.
He will forever be remembered by his family of firemen and his own family: sister Jane Glen, Victoria, BC; and his daughter Kimberly, Victoria, BC; brother Jim (Colleen), St. Margaret's Bay, NS; sister Cherry G. Ferguson, Halifax, NS; and several cousins.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 18, 2016 from Pictou United Church, with Rev. Mary-Beth Moriarity officiating.
A 'Day for Dave' reception will follow in the Pictou Legion.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pictou Fire Department, P.O. Box 640, Pictou or a charity of your choice.
www.mclarenfuneral.ca