71, Truro, NS - Dick's family is saddened to share the news of his death at home early Tuesday, December 7, 2010, after a courageous battle with throat cancer. Dick was born at home in Lockeport, Nova Scotia on August 2, 1939, the only child of Howard and Muriel (Chute) Hayden. He is survived by his wife of forty-eight years, Diane (Smith), his four wonderful children and their families. Mike (Sheila), Mitchell, Taylor; Brian (Krista), Quinn, Brea, Maggie; Kevin (Kilah), Erik, Markus; Patty (Jay) Foster. Following graduation from Mount Allison in 1960 & 1961, Dick pursued a career in education, teaching in Tatamagouche and Dartmouth. A Masters degree from Boston University followed in 1965 and then four years teaching Physical Education in Sackville, New Brunswick. Nova Scotia again beckoned and Dick joined the Nova Scotia Department of Education in 1969 and enjoyed meeting many phys ed teachers in various schools throughout the province. When the provincial Department of Recreation was created, Dick became one of the provincial representatives serving the Fundy region. Following many enjoyable years meeting great people from all walks of life, he retired in 1993 as Coordinator of Municipal Recreation Services. In retirement, Dick loved playing golf (especially with his kids), wintering on Anna Maria Island, Florida, spending extended summers at the cottage on Shortt's Lake, and enjoying time with family and many friends. The family wants to extend their sincere thanks for the fabulous care and support they received from the medical staff at Colchester Regional Hospital and QEII, as well as the support from the palliative care team and the many VON staff that cared for him at home.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Mattatall-Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street Truro, where visitation will be held Saturday, December 11, 6:00-8:00 pm. A "Celebration of Life" will take place at the funeral home Sunday, December 12, 2:00pm. Reception to follow. Family flowers only. Donations in Dick's memory can be made to a charity of choice. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the "guest book" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com