MacRae, Robert Kenyon(Bob), June 21,1924-June 21, 2012, of Abercrombie formerly of Riverton died surrounded by his loving family.
Born to the late George and Betty(Durnford).
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Helen(Bouchie), sister Jean Thompson, Kingston, Ontario and brother Gerald, Kamloops, BC. He was predeceased by a sister Doreen Blenkhorn.
He was held with deep respect and love by his children, Heather(Ron)MacKinnon, Halifax; Ian(Gail)Bridgewater; Brian(Wendy)Truro; Jane(Don)Curry, Elkford, BC; Catherine, Truro; Brenda(D.J.)Campbell, Churchville; David(Arlene), Lyons Brook; Peter(Denise), Hopewell; seventeen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren will deeply feel the loss of Grampa, his stories and his love.
On his 18th birthday in 1942, Robert enlisted in the RCAF where he became a flight officer and entered WW11 as a fighter pilot in the 442 Squadron, having flown in combat with both Spitfire Mk 1X’s and Mustang Mk 1V’s(P51d’s). He stayed in close touch with these comrades throughout his life. Known then as “Red Ryder” in his early years, Bob held an interesting variety of jobs and adventures.
Bob married Helen in March 1949 and they bought their first tiny house in Riverton and embarked in poultry farming. Next was a farm in Island East River and finally settling back in Riverton for 40 years, with enough bedrooms to house the crop that brought dad the most joy, eight children.
Bob retired from a long career in road building, primarily with Tidewater Construction and Warren Maritimes. Committed to community, Bob served in many organizations, notably as president of the RCAF 110 wing, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 28 and the Stellar Curling Club. Bob’s retirement years meant he could further pursue these and other passions. His love for the land saw him embark on a second career in Christmas tree farming with son David. He became an active member of Sharon St. John United Church as an Elder and tried his hand as a Sunday School Teacher. He served as Legion President, Branch 28, Zone 6-Legion Zone Commander and Chairman of Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command. He spearheaded many committees and worked for causes too numerous to mention. Leader of the Leadership and Development Committee for Nova Scotia Command, he spearheaded the establishment of the Veteran’s Wing in Pictou, Command Curling Chairperson, part of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of the Liberation of the British Channel Islands and visitation are only a few.
Two of the last medals he received were the MSM Medal and the highest Legion medal to be received, The Palm leaf.
His love of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and their extended families was unconditional and unwavering. Dad’s faith showed in all he did, from his love of country, community and nature to his caring of family, friends and neighbours. Dad never believed in conflict as a way to solve differences, but was never afraid to fight for his beliefs and causes. Dad never missed a chance to raise his wonderful voice in praise to his maker or in a toast with a favorite glass of scotch. We will forever toast to his enrichment of our lives and deep faith in God.
His remains are resting in the H.W. Angus Funeral Home Chapel, New Glasgow. Funeral services will be held 2pm today(Monday) from the Sharon St. John United Church, Stellarton with Rev. John Roy presiding assisted by Hal Llewellyn and Father Peter MacDonald.
A reception will follow in the church hall with a private family burial to follow the reception in Heatherdale Memorial Gardens.
Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Robert may be made to Sharon St. John United Church, Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church or to the Palliative Care Society of the Aberdeen Hospital.
The MacRae family would like to acknowledge the Fourth Floor and Palliative Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital for the special care given to our Dad.
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