In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

AITKEN, Charles Ed - It is with heavy hearts and a great sense of loss that we announce the passing of our dad, Charles “Ed” Aitken, RCN, CD on November 9, 2022 in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville with his family by his side. Born in Newcastle-on-Tyne, United Kingdom, he grew up during the Great Depression and the Second World War in England. At the age of 17, he set out for a new life in Canada arriving at Pier 21 and settling in London. In 1952, he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy where he served on 11 ships, including the QUEBEC, MAGNIFICENT and BONAVENTURE. He travelled the world with the Navy, through stories and photography he took his family with him and instilled in us a love of travel. He was proud to serve Canada, a country that welcomed him in with open arms. He completed the final years of his 25 years of service at CFB Greenwood where he was Warrant Officer in supply for construction and engineering. He went on to start his second career at Kings Rehabilitation as Material Manager and retired in 1994. His passions included writing short stories and editorials for the Chronicle Herald and Focus among others. He loved photography and videotaping, often elaborate and humorous productions. Other passions included woodworking, crafts and gardening. Family was important to him; he loved his family dearly, Shirley “Clara” was the love of his life, and his family his most cherished passion, enjoying vacations, family gatherings, camping and celebrations. He had a zest for life and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He was the last survivor of his siblings and parents in England. Those left to cherish his memory in Canada include his son, Alan (Jody) Aitken; daughter, Cheryl Lord; grandchildren, Kirsten and Kyle Aitken; step grandchildren, Anthony (Wendy) Lord, Christina Lord; great-grandchildren, Nell and Marty; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley “Clara” Aitken; son-in-law, Ken Lord. A celebration of life will be announced at a future date. Donations in memory of Ed can be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. (The Saltwire Network 15 NOv 2022)

The ashes of Petty Officer Charles Aitken were committed to the sea from HMCS SACKVILLE on 19 Sep 2023