A life well lived, a story well told, and a family deeply loved.

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Chesley (John) David Singer, age 95, at his home on Singer Road, Gormanville, NS, on August 11, 2026, with his devoted and loyal wife, Doe, by his side.

Born in Burntcoat, NS, on April 2, 1931, Chesley spent most of his life in the Noel and Gormanville area. He was the beloved husband of Doris "Doe" (Ettinger) for 72 years—a partnership filled with love, laughter, adventure, and countless stories.

A LIFE OF FAMILY, SERVICE & ADVENTURE

Chesley was the son of the late Norman and Viola (Webber) Singer. He was a loving father to Cathy Blois (Harvey), Chris (late wife Cheryl), Joanne Skelhorn (Dwaine), John (Claudette), and Sandy Currie (Phil). He leaves behind 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, along with his surviving sister, Nina Daoust (Ed).

He was predeceased by his sister Dolly Singer, who passed away in childhood, and his sister June Anthony (late Wally Anthony).

Shortly after his marriage, Chesley answered the call to serve his country, volunteering for the Canadian Army. He proudly served with the Canadian Guards Regiment in Korea, an experience that remained an important part of his life.

After completing his military service, Chesley returned home to Singer Road, where he built a life that was as hardworking and adventurous as he was. Over the years, he worked as a heavy-duty mechanic, truck driver, and equipment operator. He also operated his own sodding business and auto-body shop. Never one to shy away from adventure, Chesley even moved for a time to the Queen Charlotte Islands on the West Coast, where he worked as an airport heavy-equipment mechanic. He truly revelled in the experiences and stories that came from his time there.

THE STORIES, MUSIC & MEMORIES

Chesley was a man of many talents and interests. He loved music and could play just about any instrument. He was an avid reader of military history and enjoyed writing stories, including one that was published. His original song, “The Hants County Tune,” was widely played at local halls and jamborees back in the day.

He also had a wonderful gift for bringing laughter to those around him. Chesley was well known for his cartoons, many of which comically depicted his life with Doe. For years, he wrote letters to family members and always included a cartoon—a small tradition that brought tremendous joy and laughter to those who received them.

He was never one to sit still. Whether tinkering away in his garage, working on something that needed fixing, or driving his old John Deere, Chesley was happiest when he had something to do. He was known throughout the community as someone who could fix just about anything.

But perhaps his greatest gift was his storytelling. His stories were legendary—full of humour, history, adventure, and memories of a bygone era. Through those stories, Chesley kept pieces of the past alive for generations to come.

In his later years, his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren and

great-grandchildren. He loved telling them stories, teaching them about the world, and sharing the knowledge he had gathered over his long and remarkable life—including, for some, lessons in handling the old rifle.

Family and home were at the heart of Chesley's life. Those who knew him will forever cherish the memories of sitting together in his and Doe's kitchen, with Chesley by the woodstove, always happy to have someone come through the door for a visit.

Later in life, Chesley found the Lord, and this brings great comfort to his family. We take comfort in knowing that Grandad is now at peace, reunited with the Lord and with the family members who went before him.

His life was long, full, hardworking, adventurous, creative, and deeply loved. His stories, his laughter, his music, his cartoons, his wisdom, and the memories made around that woodstove will live on in the many generations he leaves behind.

“Rest peacefully, Grandad. We will cherish you, your stories, and the

memories you gave us forever.”

GRAVESIDE SERVICE

Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Burntcoat Cemetery, Burntcoat, Nova Scotia.

Pastor Ken Fillmore, officiating.

Reception to follow in the Minasville Community Hall, Minasville, Nova Scotia.

Donations, if desired, may be made in Chesley’s memory to the Hants North Legion or War Amps.

“His stories, his laughter, his music, his cartoons, his wisdom, and

the memories made around that woodstove will live on in the many

generations he leaves behind.”