Michael Arthur Campbell

CAMPBELL, Michael Arthur "Diker" - Died March 18, 2012, in a Halifax hospital following a short illness. Born September 22, 1931 and raised in Sydney, he graduated from St. Francis Xavier University with Bachelor of Science (major in geology) and Bachelor of Education, and held a Master of Arts degree in Education from St. Mary's University. Following a brief career in geology, he joined the staff of the former St. Patrick's High School in 1959 as a science teacher, later Department Head in Science, Vice-Principal for six years, and in 1978 was appointed Principal of the school, a position he held until his retirement in 1994. St. Pat's was his workplace and second home for 35 years. He also lectured part-time in the Faculty of Education at St. Mary's University. His involvement in church and community in the adopted city that he loved has been extensive. He served on St. Agnes Parish Council, the Archdiocesan Pastoral Council, Halifax School Administrators' Association, The Halifax Housing Commission, to name a few. He was a committed volunteer, serving at the Halifax G-7 Summit and on the original committee for the Canada Games Centre. In 1981, he received the Docete Award presented by the Archdiocese of Halifax in recognition of faithful service in the Ministry of Catechetics and Religious Education. He served on the Board of Governors of St. Francis Xavier University for two terms, as well as the Alumni Board. He was inducted into the "Hall of Honour" at St. F.X. in 1996 and the Halifax Chapter named him "Alumnus of the Year" for 2007. Walking on a daily basis was a passion. He loved AUS Sports, especially basketball. Always respectful of opposing teams, he was a key supporter of X athletics, cheering on so many of Coach K's 800+ wins. He loved St. F.X. and had great regard for fellow members of the Xaverian family. His story telling flowed with an ease and his good humour was infectious. As the consummate grandfather, in retirement he continued in a teaching capacity, stimulating and enriching the lives of the young grandchildren whom he adored. He is survived by his wife, Anne (Floyd) whom he married in 1959; sons, Michael Arthur and Peter Alexander; daughter, Courtney Anne; daughters-in-law, Lorraine (Gilbert) Campbell and Alison (Berkshire) Campbell; grandchildren, Ainslie, Luke, Abigail and Ewan Campbell; his sister, Mary Britten (the late Elmer); brothers, John (Anne Marie), Joseph (Stella); sister-in-law, Theresa Campbell; nieces and nephews, as well as special cousin, Sister David Marie, SC. He was predeceased by his parents, John A. and Catherine Campbell and brother, Allen. The family wishes to thank Dr. David Tilley (Gladstone Medical Centre) for his diagnostic skills, compassion and exceptional care, as well as The Angels on 5A VG Site and Dr. Aires. The family would also like to acknowledge the dedicated staff of St. Patrick's High School and the thousands of students who, over 35 years, were instrumental in fulfilling his hopes and dreams of a rewarding career in education. Visitation is in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., today, March 21st from 6-8 p.m., and on Thursday, March 22nd from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Saint Benedict Church, 45 Radcliffe Dr., Halifax, at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 23rd. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society, in care of Saint Benedict Parish. To send an on-line condolence to the family, please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com Good people will be remembered as a blessing... Proverbs 10:7

(2012-03-21)