Obituary of Gene Lister
Lister, Eugene (Gene) Douglas,
83 years, passed peacefully at the Charlotte County Hospital on Thursday, October 2, 2025. Born in Upper Mills, New Brunswick, he was the son of the late Kenneth and Mary (Blakeney) Lister.
Gene enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1962 but shortly after joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where he flew the CF-130 Hercules all over the world, with a combined service of 34 years. He often said he could not believe he was being paid for a career he loved. Retiring to Bocabec in 1995 with his wife Doris, he became an active member of the Charlotte County Search & Rescue and operated Lister’s Seaweed Company. As a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #8 Saint Andrews, Gene served as the Poppy Chairman for several years.
In 2006, Gene met Marianne Caples, the second love of his life. Together in 2009 they made the decision to winter in Florida, settling in Ormond Beach, Florida, a 55+ community, until 2019. They enjoyed an active, enjoyable retirement together: golfing, riding bicycles, playing pool and meeting new friends.
In the summer, Gene could be found mowing on his prized tractor; planting, weeding and harvesting in his greenhouse; golfing at The Croix; and entertaining friends on the deck. He particularly enjoyed watching the hummingbirds, often remarking “I love those little birds.”
Predeceased by his wife Doris (Hoar); brothers Gregory, Gordon, Norman and brother-in-law Curtis Caldwell; and grandsons Gregory and Christopher Chase.
Survived by his children Laura (Jim) Graham, Leah (Kim) Keddy, David (Dotti), and Michael (Charity); seven grandchildren; three great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; his sister Janet Caldwell; and sisters-in-law Patricia, Cecelia, and Wendy Lister. Sadly missed by Marianne, her daughter Erin Smith (Ben) and their daughters Camden and Madison.
Gene will be remembered as a passionate, kind, family-oriented man who loved nature and the Bocabec Bay. He was a generous spirit who will be greatly missed.
We express our gratitude to the Extra-Mural nurses St. George for their care over the years.The family wishes to express their thanks to all of you for your prayers, presence, love, phone calls etc. shown during this time of bereavement.
At Gene’s request, no formal time of visitation or funeral service will take place. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date at his beloved home in Bocabec.
In lieu of flowers or donation the family would appreciate a random act of kindness in his memory.
Godspeed, Gene!
