Wendell Allister Rushton

RUSHTON, Wendell Allister, Truro, died suddenly on Jan. 15, 2017, at the age of 91.

Wendell was a testament to a resilient, well-lived life, overcoming many obstacles with determination and perseverance.

Born in Lornevale, he was the proud father of Leo (Yvonne) Rushton, Londonderry, and Jane (Colin) Gillis, Halifax.

His fun-loving nature will be sadly missed by his seven grandchildren and as “Big Grampie” by his seven great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years, Jane “Edna” Brown in 2004 and his loving son Brian in 2014.

As a young man, he worked for Charles Sinclair in Melrose, William A. Flemming in Truro and retired after a long career with Irving Oil in 1987. He was a Freemason with Lodge No. 63.

Wendell had a love of animals and the great outdoors, living and farming in Great Village for many years. He could be found gardening, splitting wood, clearing the snow for neighbours or just travelling around Nova Scotia in his RV.

Although struggling for years with arthritis, he amazed many when at 84, after a second knee replacement, he started riding his bicycle again. At 90, with heart surgery behind him, he continued to work outdoors putting in this year’s firewood.

Wendell will be greatly missed by his companion, Marguerite Gregory, as well as his many friends and neighbours.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall-Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young St., Truro, where visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Jan. 19, 2017 and from where a funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, Reverend Dan Gunn officiating. Private family interment in Mahon Cemetery, Great Village to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shoreline Journal or a charity of choice. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Wendell’s obituary online and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com.