David Nelson Rolls

Nelson is survived by his wife of 53 years Rose (Boudreau) Rolls, his sister Sharon, sons Derek (former wife Carol Ann MacNeil) and Steven (Vanessa Childs), and his pride and joy, his grand-children Olivia, Owen, and Alex. He was predeceased by his father Alexander Rolls, mother Pearl (Burke) Rolls, and his brothers Wesley (Lorraine) and Fabian (Carmella).

Proud to grow up in Whitney Pier, Nelson left for Ontario at the age of 15 but later returned to Sydney where he met the love of his life, Rose. Here, he unwittingly joined the Coast Guard while visiting a friend on board the CCGS John A. MacDonald. Nelson always spoke with pride of his time in the Coast Guard, but cut his days there short to start his family. He spent the next 50 years of his professional life as district manager of Shoppers Drug Mart as well as manager of Woolco Pharmacy (Sydney River) and Lawtons Drug Store (Glace Bay, New Waterford, and Sydney).

Nelson’s life was not all work though. His days were often filled with laughter and friends, sharing his unique sense of humour, entertaining party goers with skits, or joining in whenever the opportunity arose to don a costume or play a character.

Many knew Nelson as a volunteer and community man, giving every ounce of his being to the communities he belonged to. At the top of that list was the community he lived in for over 25 years, Howie Centre. Here he built his home, raised his family, coached little league, organized community dances, started a recreation association, held community days in a park he helped build, and became a proud member of the Howie Centre Volunteer Fire Department where he served for over 35 years, including 18 years as chief. His heart and commitment to community remained until the day he passed.

More than anything, Nelson loved his grandkids and they loved him. He always had time for whatever they needed. They lovingly remember him as “always being right” and as “the worst fisher to never catch a fish”. Nelson would have laughed at that. They all agreed that he was the best Grampy.

Commitment, loyalty, and determination: These three traits are what Nelson lived his life by. So, here’s to walks on old logging roads, Taylors Brook, taco nights, bad jokes, minor league hockey games, and Sunday night darts; they will never be the same without him.

Visitation is March 8th from 4-7 at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, Sydney. Funeral service is at St. Marguerite Bourgoeys Church, Sydney on March 9th at 11:00 am with Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Howie Centre Volunteer Fire Department. https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/howie-centre-volunteer-fire-department/. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.