Ross Webster Christie

Ross Webster Christie (“Chappie” or “Train”), 70, longtime resident of Bedford, N.S., passed away on March 1, 2015 at the QEII Health Sciences Centre. Ross was born on October 5, 1944 in Halifax to George and Marion (Robb) Christie. Ross grew up with siblings Margaret (Embree), Peter and Cathie. He enjoyed playing hockey, tennis, rugby and sailing, and he was very active in the local scouting movement, and achieved his Queen Scout badge. After attending school in Bedford and 4 years in the local Air Cadet Squadron, Ross married his sweetheart Donna (MacKay) Christie from New Waterford, N.S. on May 18, 1969. Ross and Donna settled in Bedford and raised three children; Sean, Steven and Sheri. After working for the Royal Bank for a number of years, Ross graduated from Saint Mary’s University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Commerce degree (cum laude) and an MBA in 1977 (Beazley Gold Medal Award). He remained at Saint Mary’s as a lecturer for four years, teaching Finance. Until he retired in 2009, Ross had a successful career as a business consultant and a political advisor to various Cabinet Ministers. Ross worked on several federal, provincial and municipal campaigns. In his spare time, Ross remained involved in his community and chaired a number of organizations, including the NSCAD University Board of Governors, of which he was a Life Governor. He was also past President of The Scots: the North British Society and the Pipes and Drums of Clan Farquharson. To stay physically active, Ross was a founding member of the Bedford Basic 4 (athletic and philosophy club), long-standing member of the Bedford Basin Yacht Club and was enthusiastically involved in Bedford Minor Hockey. Ross was pre-deceased by his father George, mother Marion, and his brother George Andrew. He is survived by his wife Donna, brother Peter, sisters Margaret and Cathie, sons Sean and Steven, daughter Sheri, and the lights of his life; his grandchildren, Georgia, Liah, Ruth, Heather, Julia and Michael. A service of Remembrance will be held at the Bedford United Church, Thursday March 5, 2015 at 2:00pm. A reception will follow at the church and a Celebration of his Life at the BBYC at 6:00pm that evening. Donations may be made in his name to the Scott Manor House, the BBYC Learn to Sail Program, the Pipes and Drums of Clan Farquharson or The Scots: the North British Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to the JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr. Halifax.