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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
ACTON, Ruben Gordon - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Reuben Gordon Acton, who passed peacefully on July 22nd at the ICU of the QEII Hospital in Halifax, surrounded by his loving family.
We find comfort knowing he has joined his beloved wife, Jean Viola (Burke), his father Arthur, and his younger sister Anna. He is survived by his adoring mother Bessie (Demerchant) and his brother, Arnold Acton (Ruth) of Fredericton, New Brunswick.
He leaves behind his forever loving children: Bonnie Shaw (Bill), Truro, NS, Catherine Wrightman (Jason), Newmarket, Ont., Paulette Rhyno (Eugene), St. Margarets Bay, NS, Daniel Acton, Ottawa, Ont. and Cheryl Acton (Gardiner), Halifax, NS. Reuben thought the world of his grandchildren: Tasha, Amanda, Joey, Michelle, Kyle, Acton, Kaelyn, Kayley and, cherished great grandchildren: Shannon, Alyssa, Nathan, Chase and Taylor along with nieces: Laura and Maureen.
Reuben was born in Bairdsville, New Brunswick. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy at the age of seventeen, as an electrician. Throughout his 30 year career, he proudly served on many ships, such as the HMCS BONAVENTURE, FRASER, IROQUOIS, HURON, and BRAD D'OR, to name a few. His fierce pride of service was evident in his many stories of his travels throughout the world. Upon retirement, he traded his uniform in for the orange apron of Home Depot. He loved to be of service to customers and was known for his friendly and helpful disposition. His spare time was spent watching his beloved Blue Jays on full volume, setting up for crib games with his buddies, or attending his grandchildren’s hockey games. He loved family time and holiday traditions. He was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and a friend to all.
For 60 wonderful years, he was a dedicated husband to the love of his life, Jean Viola (Burke). Their unwavering love and commitment to each other and to family and traditions were inspiring to all. Remembrance Day was of great importance to Reuben. His respect for his fellow serviceman was steadfast. As a dedicated service man, he always partook in services on this special day. A tradition which he passed along to his family. In honour of our father’s dedication and military pride. The family will be wearing a splash of red to honour our parents. Our guests are most welcome you to join us in this family tribute.
As a wise philosopher once said, “everything happens for a reason”, we recognize the gift in being able to celebrate the lives of our cherished parents together.
Please join us on October 16th at 11:00am at Bethany United Church, as we celebrate the lives of Reuben and Jean Acton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.
Ships served in: HMCS IROQUOIS HMCS HURON
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