Obituary of Ralph David Stevens

Ralph David Stevens 73, of Chester Basin, passed away on January 21, 2012 at the South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater after battling cancer. Born and raised in Marriott’s Cove he was the son of the late Ralph and Helen (Armstrong) Stevens. David was taught carpentry and masonry by his father. He was known to many as a fine carpenter and this was his life’s career. He worked for local employers and was also self-employed at times. He was once a member of the Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department and the Everett Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. He later transferred to the F.E. Butler Branch where he was the building chairperson. David always had a ready smile, loved a good story or joke. He enjoyed playing the accordion, daily cribbage at the Legion, crib tournaments with Kenny Redden, breakfast at the Legion with his daughter, Jayne and listening to his son, Kempton’s, hunting stories. His granddaughter Tarah was the joy of his life. He was very proud of his son in law, Scott, especially of his military career. Lisa came into his life about five years ago. He enjoyed her kindness and thought she was a “great girl”. He had a great love for his brothers and sisters and their families. He is survived by his “pride and joy”, his children, daughter Jayne (Scott) MacKenzie and son Kempton (Lisa) Stevens; their mother, Vera (Hiltz) Reeves, “Grampie’s girl” granddaughter Tarah; sisters Edith Zinck, Adah (John) Durno and Jean Stevens; sister in law Joan along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Greta; brothers Percy and George; sister Marie and brothers in law Raymond, Herman and Aldo. Cremation has taken place. A public Legion tribute service for all family, friends and Legion members will be held at 2pm Saturday January 28 at David’s home branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, F.E. Butler Branch #44, in Chester, NS. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to the F.E. Butler Branch #44, of the Royal Canadian Legion, Chester or to the charity of choice. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com. Many thanks to the VON, Home Care staff, Louise Blackie, Drs. Ferguson and Abriel, the nurses and staff of the third floor surgery unit of the SSRH for their care of our Dad. Special thanks to Aunt Jean. We hope she knows how much we appreciate her.