Obituary of Edward Owen Browne

Dr. Edward Owen Browne, DVM

February 23, 1938 – January 8, 2025

Dr. Edward (Ted) Owen Browne, DVM, passed away peacefully at his home in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, on January 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family: his devoted wife of 58 years, Marion Joyce; his son, Michael, of Langley, B.C.; and his daughter, Rachel (JC), of Bridgewater, N.S.

Ted and Marion shared a love and partnership spanning over five decades, building a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and adventure. They explored the world together, travelling to Europe and New Zealand, creating cherished memories, including capturing them with his trusty camera. They also enjoyed spending winters in Florida, where they embraced the warmth and relaxed lifestyle, often with friends and family. Their relationship was a testament to unwavering support, mutual respect, and a deep affection that remained strong throughout their years together.

Ted was not only a dedicated husband but also a devoted father who took a deep interest in the lives and activities of his children. He was always eager to support Michael and Rachel in their pursuits, whether it was encouraging their hobbies, sharing his wisdom, or simply being present for the moments that mattered most. Ted’s desire to teach his children extended into every aspect of his life, often using his veterinary practice as a platform to educate them. He encouraged curiosity and learning, taking the time to explain his work and share his love of animals, nature, science, and problem-solving. These lessons shaped their lives and left a lasting impact on their appreciation for knowledge and hard work.

Ted was born on February 23, 1938, at Halifax Infirmary to Dr. Courtney Tremaine Browne, a dentist originally from Port Hood, Cape Breton, and Robina “Ruby” Browne, a homemaker, born in Tranent, Scotland. He was predeceased by his parents and his older siblings, Robert (d. 2004), Anita (d. 1999), and Donald (d. 2023).

Ted spent his early years in Dartmouth, growing up in the family home on Portland Street, before moving to Wolfville in 1953, where his parents operated the Roselawn Cottages. As a teenager, Ted purchased a BSA single-cylinder motorcycle from his brother Robert for $50, which sparked his lifelong love for adventure.

Ted completed his Grade 12 year at Acadia University and was the president of his high school graduating class. He continued his studies at the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, where he graduated as a veterinarian in 1963. He interned in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, and Chicago, Illinois, before beginning his veterinary career in Charing Cross, Ontario. After two years, Ted returned to the Maritimes, working for the federal government as an abattoir inspector in Nova Scotia.

In 1965, Ted joined South Shore Veterinary Services, purchasing a share of the practice and later overseeing its growth, including the design and construction of two veterinary hospitals — one on Churchill Street in Bridgewater in 1968 and when the practice outgrew that property the business moved to its current location in Wileville in 1995. He welcomed new veterinary partners along the way, ensuring the clinic’s success. Ted retired from veterinary practice in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of care and dedication to animals and their owners.

Beyond his professional life, Ted loved the sea and spent countless hours with family and friends aboard his powerboat, The Dolphin II, exploring the South Shore and beyond. He kept his boat at the LaHave River Yacht Club and cared for it meticulously during the winters. After selling the boat, Ted turned his attention to maintaining his properties in Bridgewater, Heckman’s Island, and later Pentz.

Ted was an accomplished woodworker, often found intently focused on crafting beautiful furniture for family and friends in his basement workshop. In his later years, he enjoyed travelling, cycling, staying active at the local gym, and golfing with his buddies.

Ted’s quiet warmth, dry sense of humour, infectious laugh and generosity of spirit touched everyone who knew him. He was deeply devoted to his family, including his many nieces, nephews, and their children, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported them through Ted’s recent illness. Special thanks go to the Victorian Order of Nurses and the Nova Scotia Health Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program and its providers, whose care and compassion brought comfort and dignity to Ted and his family during this difficult time.

A reception celebrating Ted’s life will be held at The Best Western in Bridgewater on April 10, 2025, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society and directly to the Bridgewater branch of Souls Harbour Rescue Mission at 136 Pleasant St, Bridgewater, NS B4V 1N2.

Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny's Funeral Home, 35 York Street, Bridgewater. To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.