HIGGINS, Grant Elmer – 81, Shortts Lake. We are saddened to announce the passing of Grant Elmer Higgins on Thursday, July 14, 2016, at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born and raised in Crowes Mills, he was the son of the late Albert Esson and Grace Mae (Barnhill) Higgins. He was a devoted father to his three children. He was a very hard working man who ran Higgins Electric Limited, a successful electrical business for over 20 years. He retired from electrical work to become even busier as a fulltime landlord and owned several buildings in the Truro area. Grant loved living at Shortts Lake and he enjoyed driving his boat and barbequing in the summers. He was known to repair everything that needed fixing. Grant was an avid fisherman and hunter in his younger years and was a lucky card shark who enjoyed playing long card games. With his wife Jill, he lived in Florida as a snowbird for 11 years; they travelled extensively and particularly enjoyed their long drives and their cruises. He was a loving father, grandfather and husband and was well loved and respected in the community. He is survived by his loving wife, Jill; his children, son, Stephen, Truro; daughter, Kenda (Brad), Ottawa, and his grandchildren, Kayla, Sara and Zachary; daughter, Tonda (Wade), Crowes Mills, and his step grandchildren, Alex and Brandon. He is also survived by his step children, Tracey, Todd and Tara and his step grandchildren, Alex, Brandon, Faith, Joe, Cooper, Owen, Maxine and Cash. As well, he is survived by his sister, Marlene (Donnie) MacKinnon and his brother-in-law, Robert (Bev) Murray, along with several nieces and nephews. As well as his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Rona and Ruth. The family would like to express their thanks and appreciation to the owners and staff of Murphy’s Restaurant, Dr. David Henderson, Lisa Weatherbee, the wonderfully caring Palliative Care Team and Dr. Bruce Phillips. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Grant’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Monday, July 18, 2016. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, July 19, 2016, at First United Church, 711 Prince Street, Truro. Reception will follow in Campbell Hall. Interment in Belmont Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Colchester East Hants Hospice Society or Palliative Care Unit (CEHHC) are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Grant’s obituary on-line and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com