Born in Westmount, Cape Breton, he was the son of Emma and Frank Pickles. Walter was predeceased by Ruth, his beloved wife of 71 years. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, having been predeceased by brothers William, Ronald, Robert and Edwin and sister Eileen. He liked to say that he was, “the last pickle in the jar”.
As a man of faith, he was a devoted member of Holy Redeemer Parish.
Walter began his working life at CP Moore’s store in Sydney. However, most of his career was as a well respected electrician at Sydney Steel Plant, as well as, the Radar and Naval Bases.
Walter was a perfectionist in everything he did, whether it was the building of his own home, his job or the sports and activities in which he was involved.
In his early years, Walter shared a love of fishing and hunting with good friends Wally Martell and Ian Cossitt. He raised and trained beagles, winning many awards at local field trials.
Walter really enjoyed the outdoors and the many activities it offers. He became a very good golfer, playing many games with his friend Rusty at Lingan Golf and Country Club. He and Ruth especially enjoyed their golf trips to Bermuda.
Walter was a member of Ski Ben Eoin where he spent many years skiing, volunteering and on the Board of Directors. Trips to Alberta to visit family, of course included skiing in the Rocky Mountains.
Walter and Ruth participated in skating, cross country skiing, and yoga together. As well, Walter, Ruth and family spent many wonderful summers in Ingonish and throughout Eastern Canada tenting then later in their trailer.
Walter cheered for the Cape Breton Oilers back in the day and for the last 20 plus years he was a loyal Cape Breton (Screaming) Eagles fan. He was a special member of the Section 17 Fan Club at Centre 200.
Having a keen interest in nature and especially bees, Walter became an expert in the field when he became a beekeeper over forty years ago. He was a founding member of the Cape Breton Farmer’s Market where he sold his honey and became known as the “Honey Man”. For him the highlight of his expertise was to be a guest speaker in the local schools. He cherished the friendships made and the customers he met at the market.
Walter is survived by his three loving daughters: Sandra (David) Gabriel, Sydney; Beverlee (Gordon) Stermann, Canmore, Alberta and Nancy (Paul) Heighton, New Glasgow. He was the cherished grandfather of Geoffrey Gabriel (Jennifer Jarvis) Moncton; Ruth (Adam) Shore, Halifax; Emily (Andrew) Deveaux, Cole Harbour; Jennifer (Dino) Senn, Alberta; Lindsey (Blake Robson), Calgary; Laura Heighton (Adam Irwin), Calgary; David Heighton and Colin Heighton, New Glasgow. He was also the proud great grandfather of Ryelyn, Tristan, Jude, Chasen, Edgely and William.
Walter was a very outgoing and engaging person. He had a great sense of humour and has left us with many funny stories, experiences and wonderful memories of a good man, father and grandfather who truly loved his family and is truly loved and remembered by them.
Due to Covid 19 restrictions, life celebrations will be postponed until the family can safely travel and be together. Cremation has taken place under the direction of T W Curry Parkview Chapel.
The family would like to thank the VON for their many years of care and concern; the staff of Harbourstone; along with the doctors and nurses at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital ER and An Cala Palliative Care Unit.
Donations may be made to the VON, Hospice Palliative Care or charity of choice. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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