It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ovila Joseph Melanson, less than 5 months after the passing of his dear wife Gloria. Ovila passed away peacefully at the age of 75 on Wednesday, May 4, 2016, at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre surrounded by loving family and friends.
Born in Cap Pele, NB, he was a son of the late Alexander and Edmee (Richard) Melanson.
He was retired from the Army with 20 years of service as an engineer. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing. He was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather and thought the world of his daughters and grandchildren. Through thick and thin, he could be counted on to love and support his family.
It is comforting to know that he is reunited with his beloved wife Gloria (Reid) Melanson, his twins Mary and Joseph Melanson and sister Florence Burns. Ovila is survived by his children Donna Melanson (Demont) of Joggins, NS and Dale Melanson of Quebec; his grandchildren Katelyn Melanson of Amherst, NS Nathan Melanson, of Oxford, NS, Aisha Caris and Jade Swaine of Quebec; his great granddaughter Willow Lillian Kay; her father Donald Reid of Joggins, NS; brothers Francis and Donald, both of Joggins, NS and Frederick (Pat) of Miramichi, NB and many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Furlong~Jones Funeral Home, 70 Church St, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777) where visiting hours will take place on Friday from 6 to 8 pm. The funeral service for Ovila Melanson will be held at the Furlong~Jones Funeral Home, Amherst on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at 2 pm, Rev. Charlotte Ross officiating. Burial will take place in the River Hebert Cemetery. A reception immediately following the committal will be held in the Joggins Fire Hall.
Those wishing to make a donation in Ovila's memory may do so to the Kidney Foundation, or the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Ovila's online memorial at www.furlongjones.ca or through the Funeral Home Facebook Page.