Herbert "Herbie" Alfred Westlake

Born in 1930 he was the son of the late Clarence Westlake and Florence Craig. Predeceased by his loving wife, Doris Westlake of 69 years, who was his inspiration.

Survived by his 4 children, Judith Westlake, Michael Westlake(Karen), Kevin Westlake (Janet) and Dawnelda Bellefontaine, 8 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Herbie was the 10th child of a family of 12 and was the last surviving member. Predeceased by his 7 brothers Earl, Robert, James, George, Raymond, Ted (Clarence) and Harold. His 4 sisters, Marie, Dolly, (Florence) Schultz, Pearl Romo, Dot (Dorothy) MacLeod and son in law Kenneth Bellefontaine.

Herbie was a kind and loving husband and father. His family was his pride and joy. He was a friend to all. He started his work-life at the age of 14, until joinig the Army in 1950. He served 4 years as a soldier, serving 13 months in Germany. He returned to Canada and was sent to Camp Val Cartier in Quebec as an instructor in drill and weapons for the new founded 4th Battalion Canadian Guards. In 1953 Herbie was sent to Camp Wainwright in Alberta for a 3 month course in mountain climbing in the Rocky Mountains. He returned to civilian life and joined the Militia PLF. He proudly rose to the rank of Sergeant Major. Herbie was called upon to train Army Cadets each summer at Camp Aldershot. In 1960, he joined the Longshoremen's Union Local 269, where he became a union activist. In 1962 he was called upon as an instructor of National Survival at the Halifax, Armories for 11 months and in Liverpool, Nova Scotia for 3 months.

After his tour of duty during the Cold War, Herbie returned to the waterfront in 1963, where he dedicated his next 36 years. Herbie served on the ILA Union committees as a negotiator, arbitrator, mediator, conciliator and any other jobs they ask him to do.He served as a trustee on the Pension and Welfare committee. Always keen on improving benefits for all ILA members. He was instrumental in bringing containerization to the Port of Halifax. He spent the next 27 years as Foreman at the Halterm Container Pier and won the respect of his fellow employees and management. Some of his original ideas are still being practiced today, 50 years later. Herbie did what he loved and loved what he did. His accomplishments are far reaching and too many to mention. He will be greatly missed, forever loved and remembered. Please join us to celebrate Herbie!

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax on Sunday November 2nd, 2025 at 2pm.