The night I unexpectedly saw Cecil sitting in a Halifax Hospital waiting room with an extraordinary expression on his face, I had no idea why he appeared this way.  It was a face without a smile and not something I was accustomed to from previous years when we worked together. He told me what happened to Callum and not only that, Cecil told me to go in and see Callum, which I did, meeting him for the very first time. Callum looked perfectly ok. He looked like he belonged on a movie set and not in a hospital bed. It was a surreal scenario. He talked, was coherent, impressionable and strong looking.  There were young people outside in the huddle when I departed the hospital. The quietness and sombreness was clear. They were from Inverness. A testimony to friendship.

Knowing Cal has been a gift for all of us.  His attitude towards life was remarkable.  He continually advocated for accessibility with constant and kind communication.  He was a work horse who did the planning behind the scenes to make things happen.
In 2007, I remember a week before a major disabled sailing regatta in Dartmouth, and asked if Callum wanted to participate.  He had never raced a sailboat before, and he said, "Sure!"  To think of the courage for him to take on such an unknown experience.  And he did it laughing and making others laugh all the while.  You will be forever missed.
Rest in Peace brother

Eileen, Cindy and family,
I have been reading through the memories posted by many family and friends and I find them so touching.  I knew Call as a volunteer and an advocate and a believer in finding the best way to make the best life with whatever comes your way. I started working for CPA(NS) in 1995 and Cal was the first person with a new spinal cord injury who I visited. I learned as much from him as he did from me. He saw hope in what for some was bleak. He found strength in educating people about the possibilities for persons living with disabilities. The strongest part of Cal was his heart. He had so much caring for anyone who needed it. That caring combined with his sense of humour and determination was a combination we who knew him were fortunate to experience---and it is Cal's legacy. He will never be forgotten. I will miss you Cal. I will keep up the good fight for change knowing you are watching. Rest in peace, Cal.   

There are no words fit to share....just an outpouring of gratitude and love! Callum has been a steady source of  joy and inspiration for as long as I can remember. I will miss his steadfast presence, blue eyes and sassy smile. His energy lit up any room.

To all those grieving, on the morning of his funeral, I came upon the a thought while getting ready to sit to connect to the live-strseam,  I would l like to share....
"Connection is easy, when things are good;  its the re-connection to ourselves and then to each other that is the real work. When difficulty arises, and it will ~ re-connect. To self/spirit and each other."  Despite being disconnected from his physical abilities with the paralysis, Cal re-connected to his breath (miraculously with a C4-5 break) , his indomitable spirit,  and to each of us in so many meaningful ways! 
What the world is in desperate need of during these pandemic times, IS re-connection. May we carry forward the courage he held, within a spirit of  re-connection, and live it forward...Look for the ways to re-connect. Despite any restrictions we may face....
"After all, we are all just walking each other home."(Ram Dass quote)

Always & forever grateful for the love a true friend!! Cal infinity is yours! Until we meet again....  xoxo

Callum is one of the most amazing people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. As a little girl, my parents always reminded me of what a special honour it is to be his god-daughter. I loved writing stories about him my school notebooks talking about the adventures he’s been on and imagining the things he could do if a wheelchair could fly or transform into a personal submarine! I remember the excitement of getting to ride in his chair, zipping around the room and racing. He was so inspiring to me and gave me a whole new understanding of what it means to be ‘strong’. 
Every birthday card, gift, framed photograph I have held onto and cherished over the years. I slept with the stuffed doggy he gave me for years and thought of him when hugged it. I’ve always felt he was very close at heart even though we were miles and miles apart <3
I’ll never forget the summer I got to stay with him. I was spoiled rotten and we had a never-ending weekend of fun! Eating cake bagels for breakfast, bucket loads of candy, shopping spree at the mall, going to the movie theatre, walking around markets, riding Theodore the Tugboat, he let me drive his cool van down the road (I was maybe 9-10 years old) and dinning out every night... I’ll never forget that weekend. Callum had a way of making you feel like you were the most special and important person. Everyday we spent laughing from all his crazy jokes! Haha. 
Having the opportunity to learn from him and having the honour to be his god-daughter is one of my greatest gifts. There aren’t words to express how thankful I am for knowing Callum and being loved my him. He will always live in my heart and guide me through this crazy life until we meet again. <3 

We'd just moved here in Feb. of '95 so  I don't have many memories of Cal pre-accident, just one crystalline image of him in summer swimming the channel with one arm,  backpack above his head with the other.  It was time for Cal to  leave the adoring gaggle of little kids, clamber over the rocks, and sprint onto the main beach.  A fitting memory perhaps.  My heartfelt condolences to all of you!  

That exuberant first  photo  and all the rest of the stories and shots, and videos show what a beautiful, determined person Cal was!  His zest for life despite  his encumbrances are a true dedication showing how  he and his obviously, very loving, supportive family accomplished so much. 
I am a MacQuarrie, too..Father's brother was Callum Grant and my own brother was Ian Robert with grandfather William Jacob born near Mabou.  I have walked the Inverness beach boardwalk and will certainly remember Cal the next time we are there.
Deepest sympathies to all the Beaton MacQuarrie clan in the passing of a wonderful soul.

My heart goes out to you Eileen at this very sad time.I speak also for Jack, who loved you as a friend for a lifetime, and thought the world of Cal. Thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. Xo

I'd like to express my sincere condolences to the Beaton and MacQuarrie families on Callum's passing. He is an incredible inspiration to me, and to anyone who is facing adversity in life; other trials seem trivial compared to what he faced daily. An all around "good guy." 

To the Beaton & MacQuarrie families, please accept our sincere condolences. He was an inspiration to us all!

Dear Eileen, Cindy and Cecil and family,

Well we lost another "Corner" boy!  Cal was a force to be reckoned with for sure...although his body was immobile his heart and brain never stopped looking for ways to improve the world for others.

He was born smiling and continued to do so throughout his whole life.   It was a privilege to know and love Cal.  He is free now to swim and sky dive and do whatever else he loves to do.

In my email yesterday Paula's obituary popped up.  I realized that she died 2 years ago yesterday...I knew then that she was looking after Cal and all of you as you have his wake and burial.   

Love and prayers going out to each of you.

Connie and Mary

I was saddened to hear of Callums passing , sending condolences to Eileen , Cindy , and Cecil . I will always remember Callum for his big smile and love of adventure . He was an inspiration to many , and despite the challenges he faced , he made the best of the situation he was dealt . His hard work and determination to create change allowing for accessibility for all will always be remembered . Every time I go to the beach and see the ramps I think of him . An amazing individual , taken to soon . Condolences to all family members and friends .

Dear Eileen, Cecil  and your families - we were 
very saddened by the news of Callum's passing. 
Such a courageous person, may his legacy live on.  Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Bill and Margie

Jonathan & family,

We are very sorry for your loss.
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Sincerely;

Theresa & John Scott

Dear Eileen and family.  Cal was a real force.  He was extremely smart in politics. He shared some experiences with my brother Bruce and sister Loretta.  He talked about changes at Inverness Beach and how to handle politicians.    

I know cal had a great sense of humour and he could make me laugh.  The obituary was beautiful and it impresses me even more.

Godless  Cal

Robert MacLellan   (. Alec Dans nephew)

To the Beaton & MacQuarrie families, Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your precious Callum.

Sending deepest sympathies to all of Cal's family & friends. Cal was such an inspiration to so many people, his ability to live the best life you have to the fullest are things we all can learn from Cal. His smile & laugh are two of the things I will always remember. Thinking of you all. Rest easy Cal

Cathy 

Eileen and family:
We want to extend our sincere sympathy on Calum’s passing.   Eileen,we know how proud you were of him and what a wonderful mother you were to him  and how much you’ll miss him . We pray that you’ll be given special strength at this difficult time.


Dear Eileen:We were saddened to learn of Callums recent passing.
While we never met,clearly his obituary outlines a very special young man who continued to be active across his community even though suffering his dibilitating accident..he truly was the ‘Rick Hansen’ of Nova Scotia and possessed many of the same characteristics of Hansen,and appropriately receiving the Rick Hansen award..I had the pleasure of meeting Rick in New Glasgow during his ‘World in Motion’ tour and as Min.of Tourism at the time presented him with a Honorary Nova Scotia recognition as a ‘Tourist with a Purpose’!Clearly Callum possessed these same characteristics.Please pass on our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to all the family.
Sincerely.
Jack & Evelyn

Dear Eileen, Cecil & Mary, Cindy and families, in sadness, I send heartfelt condolences and love as you endure the loss of your beloved Callum. I know that Callum’s incredible spirit and courage touched many people and his focus on accessibility changed lives. This is especially real for you, his immediate family, who encouraged and  supported Cal’s many endeavours with love, strength and courage of your own.
 Eileen, I believe your decades of loving dedication to Callum’s well being has added a whole new dimension to the word Mom. You have my utmost respect. 
Rest In Peace, dear Callum. 
Corrine &  Mike, Chrissy & Ale and Sean Donnelly

To the Beaton and MacQuarrie families:  Please accept our condolences on the loss of this lovely person. Cal was exceptional and made a difference for many people on many levels.  God bless.

Verna Feehan and family.

Reading about Callum has me reflecting on the night I met him in a Halifax Hospital where he was sent after the accident, his supporting friends who travelled from Inverness and were in the huddle, his distraught father sitting in a waiting room.... it was something I will never forget. A young man beginning an unplanned life journey. Callum demonstrated resilience, courage and all the qualities characteristic of a leader. He proved himself well from the very beginning and on to the very end of his journey.
Charlie Mac Donald
Ottawa Brook, Cape Breton



To all of Carl’s family and friends, I offer my deepest condolences. I don’t live in N.S. anymore, but I use to visit my Aunt who served as a sister at Inverness Convent. As I still read the Halifax Herald I saw your son’s obituary and read it in it’s entirety. I know there are no words that can help you through this pain, but I also know the day will come when the memories bring a smile. My daughter with special needs died when she was 8, then five years ago my 30 year old son died from a motorcycle accident. My heart and thoughts are with you all. RIP Cal, you sounded like an Awesome Advocate, my favourite kind of person. Sincerely Dorothy Doucette from Harrietsville Ontario 

To the Beaton and MacQuarrie  Family,

Our condolences to you all,
keeping  you in our thoughts and prayers,
 Callum's legacy will live on, in all that were blessed to know him..

Jacalyn and Richard and Family 

Eileen & Family , so sorry to hear about Cal. we are so sorry for your loss. 
I remember a couple of years ago when we were down at our place and Robert and I came over in the backyard when you folks were having a barbeque, and we spent a couple of hours laughing and chatting .

Loretta  (MacLellan) MacNeil

I was shocked and saddened to learn of Cal's passing. I met him as my client after his accident but he became more of a friend.  I will miss the conversations we've shared over the years. He had a great sense of humor but if you got him upset, he could make a trucker blush with his colourful language. He was a wonderful person to know and a great inspiration to others.  He's going to be greatly missed. I hope you have no more pain Cally Oops. 

My deepest sympathies to his family ,and extended family,may he rest in peace

Callum my young friend, you were always in the background during my heydays just watching the “show”, but l always liked you because you never judged me. Somewhere l have a video clip of you at the Broadcove concert back before the accident, it’s not long and it’s not much but it’s the way l always remember you. You got a raw deal far too early  in life, but you were as tough as nails to turn that situation around and lead the best possible existence you could. I always went out of my way to seek you whenever l was home , two summers ago was the last time. Your chair took on a life of its own and you nearly went off that beach ramp like Evil Knievel, but l grabbed the chair and Gary and l got you to the top. The whole time you just laughed like crazy , l guess that was  meant to our goodbye . Your road was short, but you will never suffer again, hopefully your in a better place now.

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Callum!You are in our thoughts and prayers!

I met Callum when he was living in Dartmouth. We were introduced by people at CPA. Callum agreed to become a speaker advocating for support for the work United Way was doing in the community. 

At first I was truly inspired by his determination to manage the complications he endured to get to a speaking engagement and then I realized that he was demonstrating to all of us that he was able to live a life of service to others. 

I was sad that he left Dartmouth but understood that “home” was a better place. He left such an impression on me and I believe his spirit will live on in family, friends and those of us who met and knew him for a short time. My sincere condolences to family and friends. 

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS PRAYERS AND LOVE TO ALL OF YOUR FAMILY. CALLUM WAS THE MOST FRIENDLY PERSON. ALWAYS LOVED CHATTING WITH HIM. MAY HE R.I.P  LINDA AND BROWN DOYLE AND FAMILY. ❤❤

Deepest Sympathy too all Callum's Family RIP 🌹 

So very sorry to hear of Cal's passing . He was a true gentleman and inspiration to all that had the good fortune to know him. My condolences to the entire family. 


Cal. Only a few months separated us at birth. From from sports to hanging out to the beach you're energy was hugely seen. To learn off your passing was a shocker and a very sad day.my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and friends in this most difficult time. You were always a good friend cal and a true inspiration for so many people you will be sadly missed but never gone or forgotten rest easy my friend until we see eachother on the other side again.

I met Cal Shortly after his injury. Within seconds of speaking with Cal his wheelchair would disappear and all you would see is the amazing and accomplished person he was. His wheelchair did not define him. The strength of his spirit did and that will live on. He was a wonderful advocate for accessibility for all people and he helped change our province and the way it looks at people with disabilities.  The world is a better place because he was here and I feel blessed to have known him. We will miss him greatly at the Rehab Centre. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. 

Deepest condolences,

Christine Short

Callum, little brother to his uncles, big brother to his cousins, was always in my thoughts and heart as a brother, even though we never got to know each other well enough. He always will be! 💜

Thoughts, prayers & love to the family for the loss of dear Callum 🙏❤️

Thinking of you in your loss.

Those we love are always with us. Their laughter, their wisdom and their thoughtfulness are gifts of love that are ours to keep.

With deepest sympathy, 

Gisela ❤️

Thank you to the Family and Friends for sharing the beautiful Obituary, pictures and videos that capture Callum's life, spirit, his, "have no fear, live life to the fullest", the love of everyone around him and his infectious smile !
Our hearts are with you all.
Janice, Lynn and Nora and our Family in Calgary


I knew sweet Callum when he lived on Fairbanks St., Dartmouth.  We communicated a lot. I was in politics at the time. He was such a wonderful young man, I loved him. My sincere condolences. 

Cal showed many that life is to be lived..no matter what shape you are in...Bravo Cal , and to all of you who travelled this journey with him....





The Durgin family is sending all of their thoughts and prayers to the entire Nova Scotia family.  Very sad to hear the news.  I know how much he meant to my Cam and Kay.  He was such a great person and I feel very fortunate to have known him.  Rest in Peace Callum. Hugs to Eileen and Cindy XOXO

To the Beaton & MacQuarrie Family 
My condolences to you all. I was one of Cal’s nurses at the NS Rehab. Cal could light up a room with his smile he will be missed .Rest in Peace. There will be a new star in the sky shining brighter.Cindy Cal always looked forward to your visits.
Sincerely 
Debi

Thoughts and prayers sent your way Eileen and Family 

Eileen, Cindy, Beaton and MacQuarrie Families:

My heartfelt sympathy on Cal's passing.  Be proud of all that he accomplished knowing so many others will benefit from his hard work.  May all the happy times you enjoyed together comfort you during these sad days.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.  God bless you all.  Rest in Peace Callum.  Mary and family.

To all the Beaton and MacQuarie clans. 
My memories of Callum are fond thoughts of his youth when he would be playing with my son while we vacationed at home at the corner. Callum certainly made the most of his abilities and was a credit to his community and Province, living life to its fullest certainly was a hallmark of his life. Please know I hold you all in thought and prayer and pray that you know the peace and grace of your faith in this time of loss. 

My deepest condolences to all the families. Callum made a huge contribution to society following that terrible tragedy which you must be so proud of. Nothing could keep him down. RIP  

April 4th / 2021
My Very Deepest Condolence For The Loss Of Callum ,
He Was An Awesome Young Man 
Loved By All ,
Thoughts And Prayers To His Family And All His Friends,
Callum You Will Be Missed Dearly,
Sincerely:
Charlotte Mac Arthur!

Cal was a close friend many moons ago, in fact It started through sports ( hockey and track), after his accident he chose to live  life, move around and enlightened many more with his contagious smile and hearty laugh!

He was a great advocate for accessibility, especially for the beach!  You left Us all your legacy my friend🤙 Thank you

Condolences to the families and close friends, I’m sure they will have the best send off for Cal.  Stand strong together, share tears and memories, for another angel has been assigned to watch over you all.

Callum was one of a kind, an amazing man with so much love, kindness, strength and determination.  I feel honoured that I had the chance to know him and will always remember his amazing smile,  like the one in his obituary photo.  I remember that day so well.  God bless you all and I know he’s taking care of him❤️

Dear Eileen, Cindy and Family,   I'm so deeply sorry to hear of Callum's passing.  His positive attitude and zest for life in spite of his challenges is an inspiration to all.  May your memories comfort you and bring you strength.  You are in my thoughts.  
~Melanie

Dear Eileen & Cecil:

At the beginning of Callum’s disability journey you both were advocates for Callum which led him to thrive in the accessibility/volunteer world.   As parents, be proud of who you are knowing Callum could not have wanted better supportive or loving parents.  Through prayer I can only send you peace, strength and courage during this most difficult and sorrowful time.

Sincerely,
Wendy Poirier

Sending hugs and prayers, very loving person, great smile I am going to miss.

To Callum’s Family and Friends, you all are in my thoughts and prayers.  Callum was an amazing young man; he was greatly admired by my nephew Hugh Allan Chisholm.


You were an inspiration, Cal! Had some good chuckles together. I hope amazon ships to heaven & your heavenly beach is filled with all the joys of an enteral summer. 

Dear Eileen Cecil Cindy Mary and all the Beaton and MacQuarrie families My sincere condolences to you all.Callum’s smile will warm your heart forever and hopefully give you comfort in the days ahead.Rest In Peace Callum 

I'm so sorry to be reading about Callums passing! I had the pleasure of working for Cal in Dartmouth back in 2007 for about a year. He had the most amazing attitude and zet for life ❤ He was an absolute pleasure to work for and a huge inspiration. Even though I lost touch with Cal, He does not go forgotten in my life.  

Deepest condolences to Callums family and friends. I was inspired by all he accomplished in the face of adversity. I think it was a testament to his character and to the love and support he received from family and community. His legacy will live on. Rest in peace Callum

We are so sorry for your loss. Callum was a special soul. He definitely left his mark here and will never be forgotten. ❤️

Eileen, Cecil, Cindy, Mary..all Callums extended Family & Friends..
So sorry for your Great Loss.  Callum was an Inspiration to all and his accomplishments will never be forgotten..Rest Easy Callum..
        Cookie larade..

Cecil and family
So sorry to hear of Callum's passing. He was a remarkable young man and his legacy will live on in the town he loved so much.  Love, hugs and prayers to all.




Our sincere condolences to the Beaton and MacQuarrie families as well as Cal's many friends. 

Hello, my condolences to the family. I was one of Cal’s nurses during his Rehab stay. He was a great guy with a sweet smile. He did so much for advocating for equality. Thinking of you all. 

So sorry for your loss. He truly lived life to the fullest.

Visitation

Funeral Mass

Eileen Beaton

Cecil MacQuarrie (Mary Anderson)

Cindy MacQuarrie

Cal also leaves behind to mourn loyal step-brother, Jonathan Anderson (Amy); loving nephew, Brock Morrison; special friend and brother -in-law, Ken Muise and his children, Matthieu and Chantal. Cal is also survived by a large extended Beaton and MacQuarrie clan along with numerous lifelong friends and many private caregivers whom Cal be-friended. He had a special place in the hearts of his uncles and aunts, namely: Ronsie (deceased) and Carol, Gerard (Joanne), Stephen (deceased) and Peggy, Jerome (Andrea), Bruce (Vina), Gary (Susanne), Brother Lawrence (deceased), Angus (Mabel), Stanley (deceased), Floanna (Al), Danenna (Malcolm, deceased), Lauchie (Millie), Alex (Willena), Cameron (Clare), Abby (Ned, deceased).

OBITUARY

Callum Ian "Cal" MacQuarrie

April 14, 1973 – March 31, 2021

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