The family of Alfred Edward MacMaster of Caribou sadly announces his passing at home on Monday, March 28, 2016, at the age of 76. 
Edward was born December 10, 1939 in Caribou, the eldest child of the late Alfred and Margaret (MacKeil) MacMaster. 
He attended Bay View School, graduated Pictou Academy (Class of ’58) and continued his formal education his entire life.
Edward’s life of good, hard work began at a very young age, helping his father with the family farm. He loved working outside and being with nature. At age 20 he joined the Canadian Hydrographic Service Ship; Kapukasing, that explored and mapped the Grand Banks off Newfoundland. The following year he began teaching on Pictou Island. Edward joined the 1st Battalion N.S. Highlanders Militia where he was a bagpiper. He worked as an insulator, labourer, worked at the shipyard, PC Truckers Association, E. MacMaster Farms & Construction, was elected governor of the N.S. Wildlife Association for Antigonish, Pictou and Guysborough Counties, and was appointed to the District Forest Improvement Board.  
In 1976, Edward was elected to the Pictou County Council where he proudly served until his death, making him the longest serving county councilor. He had also been Deputy Warden and had recently renewed his blasting license. “Big Ed” was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Caribou District Fire Department, Nova Scotia Beekeepers Association, Pictou County Federation of Agriculture, NS Growers Association, Right to Farm Group, Friends of the Island, Independent Order of Foresters, The Caribou District II Heritage Society, the Bay View Community Club, served on the board of the Riverview Home Corp, Ex-Pic Non Profit Society and many, many others.  
Edward is lovingly remembered as the voice of the people. He saw the big picture. You knew where he stood and that he was on your side. He gave all of himself to those around him and stayed true to his character with honesty, integrity, kindness, and a wonderful sense of humour. With a booming voice and charismatic presence, our beloved Edward said what he meant, and made sure that you heard him.  
He loved to spend time with his bees and berries, singing Gaelic songs and visiting neighbours. His family was of the utmost importance to him and we miss him dearly. He was brave and fought like hell against the fading light. We are so proud of him.  
“Ed MacMaster is a classic, the best you’ll ever find.” – Sterling Rae and the Centre Hiking Club. 
He was predeceased by his parents; brother; Larry; sisters, Jessie, Anne and Katherine. 
Edward is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorte (née Birkholm) of Denmark; children, Michael (Kim), Caribou; Teresa (Tim), Pictou and Craig (Joanne), Porters Lake. Edward also lives on through his grandchildren, Jeremy (Samantha), Petawawa; Riley, Montreal; Kelsey (Hugh), Lawrencetown; Hannah, Lauren & Gabrielle, Porters Lake; and his two great-grandchildren, Oliver Edward and Scarlett Anne. Edward will also be deeply missed by his siblings, Lenny, Caribou; Mary (Al), Bible Hill; Duncan (Isabel), Caribou; Jane (Dominic), Caribou; along with numerous aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.  
Bidh gaol againn ort gu bràth. 
The family would like to thank Angela Fogarty, the team and visitors of the Seniors Café in Westville, a place Edward always enjoyed and felt welcome. 
Visitation will be 2-4 & 7-9 PM Saturday in McLaren Funeral Home, Pictou. Funeral service will be 2 PM Sunday from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Pictou. Reception at the Caribou Fire Hall. 
Donations in Edward’s memory may be made to the VON Senior’s Café in Westville or the Pictou County SPCA.
www.mclarenfuneral.ca