|
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
PUSHIE, Donald Ralph - With his life well spent and with a great deal of sadness we say goodbye to a very special man Donald Ralph Pushie, aged 95. Donald died at Parkstone Enhanced Care, Clayton Park, on February 24, 2024, where he had been a resident for several years. Donald joined the RCN in 1952 and served on 16 ships until his retirement in 1978. During his service he had many special assignments such as being chosen as Consort to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 1956. This was a highlight of his Naval Career. Following his retirement. he worked for Pratt and Whitney St., John Ship building and for the Military as a private citizen. Born in Sydney, he attended Central School where according to a note from the Principal at the time said he was a bit of a handful and if someone could only harness his energy, he would probably do OK. He surely did. Donald also attended Kings Edgehill in Windsor. Donald was predeceased by his mother, Flo Pushie (Martin); sisters, Edna Mortimer, Lorraine Doward and Peggie Keddy. He grew up in a Cape Breton family of Aunts and Uncles where the Gaelic was spoken freely. He was the last surviving member of his maternal family. Donald enjoyed a special relationship with his sisters, Peggie and Edna. There were a few lobsters sacrificed on the May 2nd weekend as they trucked to Main a Dieu to buy lobster from Mullins Lobster Pound. It was an annual event. He is survived by his nephew, Joseph (Bonnie) Doward and great-nephew, Logan and niece, Jodie Doward. Donald was also predeceased by his first wife, Jubie (Jubilant Newport). Donald is also survived by his nieces, JoAnne (Roy) Fanjoy, Carolyn Duke and Beverly Dorrington. Donald began wintering in Florida and in 1990 he met recently widowed Christina DeBoer, from Lawrencetown, NS. They quickly became inseparable and they married in 1991. Until now, Donald had pretty much led a quiet existence, but in marrying into the DeBoer family he became Dad, Daddy Don, Grampy Don, Great Grampy to a great number of Christina's family. These roles he accepted quite willingly and without question. Donald was loved and respected by all the DeBoer family and friends He a provided a strong shoulder to lean on. In all, the DeBoer family had a wonderful 30 plus years with Donald in their lives and they are forever grateful for this. He loved to cook and his seafood melody is remembered throughout all of his “family relationship" Sadly, Christina died January 22, 2020. Donald is survived by his stepchildren, John (Christine) DeBoer, Moncton NB, Andy (Heather) DeBoer, Bridgetown. NS, and Elizabeth (Luke) Ashworth, St. John's, NL. 17 step-grandchildren. 27 great-grandchildren, eight great great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Christina; stepdaughters, Rev. Sonja Bent, Audrey (Hank) Postma and one grandson, Jimmy Bent. Donald and his wife Christina spent nine years moving and settling in different locations while suffering from many debilitating conditions which rendered them needing care. They finally rested at Parkstone where for many years they received exemplary care. Their external needs were provided for at that location by Donalds surviving niece, Jane Williams and honorary niece, Ada Smith. Family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Parkstone staff on Seton Way for the many years of excellent care and attention to Donald throughout his stay there, with his declining health due to Parkinsons Disease. Many times, staff went above and beyond. He was a well-liked man! As per his wishes, there will be no service or visitation. Interment will be at a later date. (Dignity Memorial)
|
