Obituary of Mabel Elsie Himmelman

Mabel Elsie Himmelman Age 91, Crousetown, Lunenburg Co., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2015 at Harbour View Haven, Lunenburg, where she had been residing. Born in Grand Bank, Newfoundland, she was the daughter of the late Capt. Thomas and Louise (Johnson) Belbin. Mabel grew up in Newfoundland and emigrated to Canada during the Second World War arriving at Halifax’s Pier 21 in 1941. She worked in Halifax and it was there that she met and married Lester, an airman in the R.C.A.F. who became her lifelong partner. As Lester pursued his career with the Canadian Armed Forces, the couple and their family traveled throughout Canada and Europe serving at various air force bases. Upon his retirement, Mabel and Lester returned to Nova Scotia to reside in Crousetown. The pair enjoyed retirement fully, travelled through Canada and the U.S. and wintered in Florida for over a decade. Throughout her life, Mabel led a life of public service and commitment to her community. She was active in the Brownie and Girl Guide Movement for over four decades and served in every capacity from Brown Owl to Commissioner. Mabel volunteered for the Ladies Auxiliary for the Dawson Memorial Hospital, later the South Shore Regional Hospital for over 20 years. She once led a successful fundraising campaign as Spring Fling Convenor. Mabel sewed, knitted, crocheted, cooked and baked tirelessly for volunteer organizations in Crousetown including the fire hall, community hall and United Church. Mabel was a member of United Church Women and Turquoise Rebekah Lodge and various curling teams. Mabel will be remembered as a passionate believer in a better world and did her part to help others succeed. Everyone who knew Mabel marveled at her fine handiwork and creativity. Survived by husband, Lester and daughters Sandra (David) Haase of Ottawa and Melody Burton of Vancouver; grandchildren, Tamara (Scott) Johnson and Sean Haase of Ottawa; great-grandchildren, Avery and Mason Johnson; sister, Emma Bygott, Toronto; brother, Thomas Belbin, Newfoundland. Mabel was predeceased by son, Thomas and sisters, Violet Green and Stella Woodford. Service of Remembrance will be 11 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2015 in Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater, Rev. Vivian Moores officiating. Private family internment will follow in the Crousetown Community Cemetery, Crousetown. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrews United Church, Crousetown or charity of choice. On-line condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com or by messaging condolences@sweenysfuneralhome.com.