OBITUARIES

Peacefully at the Colville Manor on Friday, March 27, 2026, the death occurred of Mildred Robertson (nee Hackett). Born in Kinross, PE, on September 5, 1930, she was in her 96th year. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Wendell, and will be forever loved by their children Diane MacDonald (Ivan) and Wendy Robertson Nowlan (Allan). Mildred was a caring grandmother to Craig MacDonald, Julie Chaisson (J.J.), and Kenny Nowlan. She was also a great grandmother to Ruby and Leann MacDonald, and Ella, Brady, and Maguire Chaisson. She is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Mildred will be missed by many in her community, especially by her special friend Mary “Pat” Robertson. Predeceased by her parents Edward and Emma Hackett, and her siblings Stirling “Mary” Hackett, and Blair “Erma” Hackett. Mildred logged many miles walking on the Basin Head Road. She was involved with the women’s institute, and very involved with her church. She also loved to bake for her family and community. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home where visiting hours will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 12:00-2:00pm. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at the Kingsboro Baptist church at 3:00pm. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. If so desired, donations in memory of Mildred can be made to the Kingsboro Church.

Peacefully at his home in Souris River, PEI on Friday, March 27, 2026, David Leith Townshend passed on, with Bonnie, Kilby and Heidi by his side. Born on March 20, 1942, he had just celebrated his 84th birthday one week earlier with all his grandchildren at his side. He will be forever loved and deeply missed by his beloved wife of 62 years Bonnie (nee McLean), and their daughters Kilby (Daniel Albert) and Heidi (Marc Lavack). David was a wonderful “Grampy” to David (Hannah), Andree (husband Mark), Emilie (Dragos) and Chantal. His nephew Graham Townshend, and his employee of 42 years and dear friend Dean Lewis, were like sons to him. Beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Special friend and neighbour to Kay, Pam and Danny. He is survived by two sisters, Betty and Lillian (Wayne), and his sister-in-law Marilyn. Predeceased by his parents Leith and Letty, his brother Bill, sisters Shirley Coffin and Phyllis McKie, in-laws John and Marjorie Mclean, brothers-in-law Errol Wood, Johnny McLean, Roy Coffin, David McKie, Guy Jay, nephew Blair Coffin and nephew in-law Mike McIntosh . Fondly known as “The Red Fella” or “Red” he managed to pass this trait on to three of his grandchildren. He was a true friend to many in our community. He had a kind helping heart and a terrific memory and good problem-solving skills. He grew up in “the big house” on the River with lots of hard work but also family fun. He and Bonnie dated in high school and then married in 1963 and spent their lives together throughout the various ups and downs of life, always supporting each other to the end. They tragically lost their first baby Heather but happily had two more girls Kilby and Heidi and made a lovely home in Souris River. Dad grew up on Souris River working with his father on their potato and beef cattle farm which he took over after his father’s passing. He carried on as a potato farmer staying true to rotating his crops and taking pride in looking after his land. He later added a second business with heavy machinery and trucks to do road and excavating work and helped many friends and neighbours with winter snow removal. Each day he was out the door before 6 am, never using an alarm clock, loved his breakfasts with the guys and then off to work. He slowed down a little in the last few years but still loved to keep busy, checking in regularly with his many friends, such as the Mooneys who now farm his land, always wanting to lend a hand or offer some advice to anyone who needed it. He played various sports as a kid but as an adult developed a lifelong talent and love of curling, skipping many a game at the Souris Curling Club. He especially enjoyed his curling trip to Switzerland and his yearly bonspiel in Newfoundland. He was a very competitive, fun and social guy and loved the friendly banter with his friends. He enjoyed playing cards, with Wednesday evening “crib” a highlight of his week in later years. He loved to travel saying he especially enjoyed his two Europe trips, the family trips and cruises his grandkids, and the Bus Trips to see NHL games with his friends. Often and at short notice he would tell Bonnie to pack her bags, and they would head out on Friday to catch the first ferry on their way to Halifax to visit Heidi and Kilby and their grandkids coming back on Sunday in time for his evening AA meeting and work in the morning. Dad quit smoking and drinking around 35 years ago. He struggled for sobriety in the early years but eventually found AA support which helped pull him through, attending several meetings each week for many, many years. He provided important support and mentorship to others struggling to overcome addictions. He will be truly missed on “The River” and in the broader Souris community. Thanks to all his friends and family who continued to be there for him over his illness, to the many doctors, nurses and caregivers that provided only the finest support for him throughout his treatment and illness. He fought hard and never gave up until the very end when he was at peace to do so. May God bless him. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home where visiting hours will take place on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 2:00-5:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the Kingsboro Baptist Church on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 2:00pm. Interment will take place at a later date in the Union Cemetery, Souris West. If so desired, donations can be made to the Souris Hospital or Souris Curling Club (Youth Programming).

It is with heavy hearts and sadness, the family of Weston “Westie” MacPhee, age 81, announce his passing which occurred peacefully and surrounded by his family at the Souris Hospital on Monday, March 23, 2026. He is survived by his best friend and beloved wife of 57 years, Maggie (nee Fay) and will be forever loved by their children Karen MacKenzie (Daryl), and Darlene Eldershaw (Danny); grandchildren Bethany MacPhee, Curtis MacKenzie (Cassie), Graham MacKenzie (Brooke Swift) and Nathan Eldershaw. He is also an adored Great-Grampie to Amy, Jake and Lily MacKenzie. Westie is survived by his siblings Wayne MacPhee, Marilyn MacLean, Kenny McPhee (Betty) and sister-in-law Doris MacPhee, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. He is predeceased by his parents Felix ‘Fay’ MacPhee and Winnifred (MacInnis), brothers Vernon and Kevin (Betty) MacPhee, and sister Annie (Harry) Kowalchuk. Westie was a founding member of the Souris Wharf Liar’s Club; he was the original Souris Curling Club Ice Maker extraordinaire and was a proud North Lake fisherman for 65 years. After retirement he found a new role as shore boss (along with his assistant, Maggie) at North Lake and Launching harbours. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home where visiting hours will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4 -7 pm. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Souris, on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in the St. Mary’s Church Cemetery after one final spin around North Lake Harbour. If so desired, donations in memory of Westie can be made to the Eastern Kings Health Foundation (Souris Hospital).

It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we, the family of Frans ‘Frank’ Van den Weghe, announce his peaceful passing in his ninety-fifth year at the Colville Manor in Souris, Prince Edward Island, on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Born on July 16, 1931, in Ieper, Belgium, Frans leaves behind his beloved wife of seventy years, Berthe (nee Dael), and will be forever loved by their children Wivina (Allan Lewis; deceased), Filip, Diederik (Lyn) and Pieter (Lauren). He was also a cherished grandfather to Carly, Ian, Jayson, Lhalyn, Sadie, Sorcha, and Rhys, to whom he was affectionately known as Opa. He is survived by his sister Lieve (Dries Lybeer) and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, all residing in Belgium. Predeceased by his parents Modest and Adriane Van den Weghe, his sister Lutgard (Jacques Bricoux, deceased), brothers-in-law Edgard Dael and Antoon Craye, his sister-in-law Denise Dael and his nephews Matt Craye, Klaas Craye, Emil Dael and Bernard Dael. Because of a difficult childhood in Belgium, especially during the Second World War, Frans was a man of strong will and resilience beyond his years. Mere days after their marriage in 1956, Frans and Berthe emigrated from Belgium to Canada. Although the early years were arduous, they persevered, raising and caring for four children along the way. Frans worked for Air Canada for more than three decades, eventually leading an aircraft ground crew in Ottawa. He enjoyed the work even though his shifts meant his time with his family at home was unpredictable. After retiring from Air Canada in 1996, Frans and Berthe moved to Moncton before relocating to Souris in 2021. In his later years, particularly those spent in Prince Edward Island, Frans revealed not only a penchant for reminiscing but also a previously hidden sense of humour. Every day, he joked with loved ones and strangers alike, feeling happiness knowing he had made someone smile. We wish to thank everyone who helped Frans every day in ways great and small. Many thanks to the staff at Souris Home Care, the Geriatric Program and, last but by no means least, every staff member at the Colville Manor. Your kind actions, patience and unending respect were all noticed and are greatly appreciated. A funeral Mass will be held in the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church Chapel, on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 1:00pm. Interment will take place in the church cemetery following the funeral Mass. If so desired, donations in memory of Frans can be made to the St. Mary's Cemetery Fund or the Eastern Kings Health Foundation (Colville Manor). We will forever miss his presence in our lives.

Peacefully at his residence in Charlottetown, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, the death occurred of James “Jim" (Slim) MacIntyre. Born on May 26, 1944 in Souris PE, he was in his 82nd year. Jimmy was a caring and loving father to Shelly Hennessey (Clifford), David and Aaron. He will be missed by his grandchildren Brice, Elizabeth and Jeremy Hennessey, Revan, Seth and River MacIntyre. In addition, he leaves behind step children, Cheryl (Red), Brian, Sheldon, and Janet. Predeceased by his True Love Carol Doucette, his mother Mary and sister Belle. Jim's love of the water started when he fished on the dragger "Amy Usen"….later he went to Navigation school where he acquired his papers to become a 1st Mate on the Ferry in Wood Islands. After some encouragement from Buddy Eck MacCormack, he returned to school to be a Tugboat Captain. This career was something Jim was very proud of considering he did not have much education. A funeral Mass will be held at the St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Souris, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 11:00am. Interment will take place at a later date in the church cemetery. No visitation by personal request. If so desired, donations in memory of Jimmy can be made to the PEI Humane Society or a charity of your choice.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John “Johnny” Michael Jarvis, who passed away at his residence in Souris, Prince Edward Island. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Renie (née Mallard), his siblings, Howard (Brenda), Cameron, and Alan and his sister Colleen (Tony). Johnny will be dearly missed by his three children, Dylan (Kym), Dustin (Andrea), and Tegan (Sam), as well as his six cherished grandchildren: Andre, Nate, Abigail, Katelynn, Colin, and Josie. He was predeceased by his father, Colin Jarvis, and his brothers, Colin and Brian. Johnny was a dedicated Swillbag and proud to be an original founder of his beloved Lobster Boils, where he rarely missed an opportunity to pull out his harmonica and play a tune for those around him. In his retirement he found great joy in the restoration of his cherished 1949 International and proudly completed a coast-to-coast trip across Canada in it, the trip of a life time. In keeping with Johnny’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. A celebration of his life will be arranged at a later date. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Lorraine Jenkins for everything she did for our dad. Your kindness and friendship meant so much to him, and as he himself said, you were “a true friend indeed.”

Peacefully at the Kings County Memorial Hospital on Friday March 6th. 2026, with her family by her side, the death occurred of Agnes Bernice Sheehan, in her 93 year. Formally of Gillis Lodge and spent most of her life in Mount Hope. Born on April 5, 1933. Beloved wife of the late James Elmer Sheehan of Mount Hope. She will be greatly missed by their 10 children , 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Bernice was the last surviving child of the late Duncan and Regina (nee MacMaster) MacDonald of St.George’s. Predeceased by their children Emanuel, Michael, and Cecilia Marie (infancy); her brothers, Joseph, Michael, Charles (in infancy) and Andrew (in infancy); sisters, Mary (Alphonse) Flynn, Nora (Elwood) MacDonald, Annie Allen, Clemmie (Charles) Somers, Rita (Roddie) MacPhee, Georgina (Alex) MacDonald, and Sarah Newell. Also survived by sisters-in-law Florence MacDonald, and Loretta Sheehan. Bernice will be dearly missed by her nieces and nephews who came to visit her at the Lodge. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home where visiting hours will take place on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 1:00-3:00pm. A funeral Mass will be held at the St. Peters Bay Roman Catholic Church, St. Peters Bay, on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 11:00am with interment to follow in the church cemetery. If so desired, donations can be made to the Gillis Lodge or the St. Peters Bay Cemetery Fund.

It is with sadness, much love and appreciation for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Grace Ryan of Priest Pond in her 90th year. Ann Grace Ryan (nee MacEachern) was born in Lakeville on April 14th, 1935, and passed away at home on February 21st, 2026. She was the daughter of Angus D. MacEachern and Mary Ellen MacDonald. Grace was a Northsider. She grew up in Priest Pond and Lakeville. She attended Priest Pond and North Lake School. She briefly left the Island for employment and was back within two weeks. She had no wish to be anywhere else and remained here, only leaving for vacation trips. Grace had a fierce love for the Island and everyone she cared about. She was a guiding hand and pillar of strength for many and did so, quietly, behind the scenes. She embraced the northside values of family, faith, farming and fishing. At 22, she married Bernard Ryan and moved to the Ryan farm in Priest Pond where they raised their son Kevin. Grace worked the livestock and was quite involved with her dairy herd and the special breed of cows that she raised. The farm prospered under her guidance and steadfast determination. By the 1980’s the farm operation was scaled back, and after Bernard passed, with no farming to be done and no fishing fleet, Grace travelled to Scotland and Ireland. She kept herself busy with poetry, knitting and receiving visitors in her home. She enjoyed watching the different species of birds coming to the feeder and into the Pond. Grace had a love of animals and an appreciation for nature, and it was that appreciation that resulted in her donating the land that her childhood frog pond was on in North Lake to Souris Wildlife. Grace was a grand storyteller like her father Angus and shared many happy and sad tales, keeping family memories alive. Grace lived for 69 years at the Pond. Later in her life she had two goals, to bring family back to the Island and to leave this earth from her home. Her stories, kindness, compassion, generosity, and wit brought the family back and her determination or according to her “contrariness”, and the support of family allowed her to remain in her home until she passed. Grace is survived by her grandson Devin Holmes of Saskatoon, SK and Luke Romans-Ryan of Stratford, PE as well as her cousins Jim and Laura MacEachern of North Lake, PE and Larry and Isobel Fitzpatrick of Priest Pond, PE. She is also survived by extended family in Ontario and the New England States. She was predeceased by her parents, an infant sister Catherine in 1934, husband Bernard Ryan in 1995 and son Kevin Ryan in 2018. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home, Souris, where a visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26th, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 pm. A funeral mass will take place at the St. Columba Church, Fairfield, on Friday, February 27th, at 11:00am. Interment will take place at a later date in the church cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff of Souris Homecare/ Palliative Care and Dr. Tom Bronaugh. In leu of flowers the family request donations to the Eastern Kings Health Foundation (Souris Homecare/ Palliative Care) or the St. Columba Cemetery Fund.

Joseph John Keen, age 81, of Roseneath, PEI, passed away peacefully at the Gillis Lodge, Belfast, with his children by his side, on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Joseph is survived by his wife Rose and will be deeply missed by his children Bill (Leny), Marjorie (Ron), June (Sean), and Amy (Mike). He will also be missed by his grandchildren Dustin, Matt, Kenny, April, Dana, Shane, Sarah, James, Daniel, Zack and Emily, as well as his great grandchildren Benjamin and Aiden. Predeceased by his children Jay and Gord; great granddaughter Mila, brothers Robert and Frank, and his parents William and Amelia. A special thank you goes out to the staff of the Gillis Lodge who treated Joe like family the moment he came into their care. They fondly remember him as a gentle and kind soul. By personal request, there will be no funeral services. If so desired, donations can be made to the Union Cemetery, Souris West.

It is with sadness, the family of James Louis MacDonald, announce his passing, which occurred peacefully with family by his side, at the Souris Hospital, on Friday, February 20, 2026. Born on March 22, 1946, he was aged 79 years, of Chepstow PEI. James is survived by his beloved wife Claire and will be forever loved by their children Charlotte Burke (Gordie), and Daryl MacDonald. He was a fun-loving grandfather to Crystal, Brodie Burke, Kayla MacDonald, and great grandfather to Reagan, Raffe, Meadowe, and Beau. James will be deeply missed by his siblings Anne MacCormac, Cecil (Mary), Simon MacDonald (Arlene), Gerald MacDonald (Rose), and uncle Earl (Elaine) MacDonald. James enjoyed spending time with family and friends in the summer at the cottage. He was a devoted carpenter with Cahill’s Construction for many years. He loved working with all kinds of wood, and many homes were built beautifully with his touch. On weekends in spring, you would find him checking out the cottages to see that they were all ready for the summer people when they arrive. He will be missed by many people, especially his wife Claire, his immediate family, friends and his U.S. family. Predeceased by his parents Joe and Genevieve MacDonald, parents-in-law John and Bertha MacCormac, granddaughter Melissa Burke, sisters-in-law Nancy and Barb MacCormac, and brothers-in-law Emmett, Bernard and Gerald MacCormac. Resting at Dingwell Funeral Home, where visiting hour will take place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 4:00-7:00pm. A funeral Mass will be held at the St. Margaret’s Roman Catholic Church, St. Margaret’s on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00am. Interment will take place at a later date in the church cemetery. If so desire, donations in memory of James can be made to the St. Margaret’s Cemetery Fund, or the Eastern Kings Health Foundation (Souris Hospital).