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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
COLE, Keith Douglas - A long-time resident of Musquodoboit Harbour, has passed away at the age of 90 Years. Born in Ontario, one of four sons of George and Ida Cole, he attended school and worked at various jobs around the province. He also performed as a vocalist with the “Mushy Peters Orchestra” and “Les Brown and his Band of Renown”. Keith joined the Royal Canadian Navy as a flier aboard the aircraft carrier HMCS Magnificent and travelled the world. He attended the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as part of the Canadian Navy Contingent in 1953 and also sailed through the Panama Canal. When Magnificent visited San Francisco his T.B.F. Avenger Squadron flew under the Golden Gate Bridge. Keith married his wife Helen (Mosher) in 1954, and they were together for 65 years until her passing in 2019. They relocated to Alberta when Keith joined the Royal Canadian Air force and then to Tor-Bay NL, when transferred, finally making it back to Nova Scotia where they resided for the rest of their lives. In 1962 Keith joined the Dartmouth City Police Department as a constable retiring after a 33-year career as the Chief of Police in 1993. During those years he also served on the Nova Scotia Police commission, became a Criminology lecturer and a recognized figure in National policing. In his role as chief, he also had the opportunity to meet many world figures including Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, Princess Diana, Pope John Paul II, The Royal Family, as well as Governor Generals and Prime Ministers. After Keith and Helen retired, both remained active. Keith became a car salesman and after finally retiring for good in 2001, became a Service Officer for the Royal Canadian Legion helping struggling veterans obtain entitlements and Government Services. After his wife Helen’s death, Keith spent his last years reflecting on his life, and often remarked that he had no regrets. He continued to enjoy good health and spirits until his sudden passing on May 25th from Leukemia. He is survived by his only son, Paul, and his daughter-in-law, Diann; sisters-in-law, Dianne Blakeny and Dawne Smith; many nieces and nephews; and his surviving brother, Percy Cole of Kincardine, Ont. A graveside committal was held on Tuesday, June 6th, for family and friends in St. Thomas Anglican Church, Musquodoboit Harbour. Representatives from Royal Canadian Legion Eastern Marine Branch 61, and the Dartmouth Police Department also attended. It is with greatest sadness that I mourn Mom and Dad, but their guidance and kindness and love shall always be with me. Donations in memory of Keith and Helen Cole can be made to: The Royal Canadian Legion or the SPCA. (The Saltwire Network 07 Jun 2023)
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