Obituary of Ronald Norman Estabrooks

Estabrooks, Ronald Norman (1924-2011) It is with profound sadness the family of Ronald N. Estabrooks announce his passing, Thursday, February 17,2011 at the Charlotte County Hospital, St. Stephen, N.B. Loving and devoted husband of Margaret (Essensa) estabrooks for 61 years. Beloved father of daughter, Brenda (Corey Wentzell), Edmonton, AB., sons Ron Jr. (Charlotte) Charlottetown, PE; Greg (Suzanne) Bedford, NS and Kevin (Elizabeth), Hammonds Plains, N.S. Adored grandfather of Katherine Wentzell and husband Dinesh Kakwani, Scottsdale, AZ; Craig Wentzell, Edmonton, AB, Deanna Estabrooks, Charlottetown, PE; Andrew Estabrooks, Hammonds Plains, N.S., Laura and Brett Estabrooks, Bedford. N.S. Also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Born June 19, 1924 in Amherst, N.S. to Ella (Cole) and Norman Estabrooks, Ron spent most of his early years in Sackville, N.B. He was a graduate of Sackville High School, Provincial Normal School, Mount Allison University, University of New Brunswick and an alumnus of University of Maine. A lifetime mentor and teacher, Ron taught in several public schools, both in N.B. and the State of Maine, as well as an instructor at the New Brunswick Community College, St Andrews campus. He was an elite athlete who excelled in a variety of sports at the collegiate level. Of particular note were his abilities in track and field, which resulted in him medaling at the N.S. High Games and recruited to train at Springfield College, Mass. After his playing days were complete, his passion for sports continued through coaching and officiating. His loyalty to his beloved Toronto Maples Leafs, New York Giants and Boston Red Sox was always unwavering. Ron loved his community and this was evident in his continued involvement and service to various causes and organizations in St. Stephen. He served on St. Stephen Town Council for two terms, was a long-time member of the Chocolate Fest Committee and a dedicated member of the Charlotte County Gardeners. Other involvement included membership to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #9, St. Stephen Kivanis Club, the Sussex Lodge # 7, F. & A.M. and the N.B. Retired Teachers Association. A man of great faith, Ron served on a number of church committees down through the years. He and Margaret shared a passion for gardening and landscaping. The Estabrooks' gardens were popular venues for photo-taking and weddings. His legacy of faith and family will endure. Arrangements entrusted to Humphrey's Funeral Home, 20 Marks Street, St. Stephen, N.B. (www.humphreysfh.com) Cremation has taken place. Visitation 7 … 9 pm p.m., Monday, February 21, 2011 at Humphrey's Funeral Home. Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. in the Kirk McColl United Church, King Street, St. Stephen, N.B. The Rev. Dr. Mark Hatfield officiating. Reception to follow in the church hall. A Masonic tribute will be conducted at the funeral home on Monday evening at 7:00 pm. A Royal Canadian Legion tribute will also be held at 7:30 pm. A a weather advisory please call the funeral home on any updates orcancellations of these services before venturing out on the roads. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron's memory to the IWK Grace Hospital, Halifax, NS, Charlotte County Hospital Auxiliary, Charlotte County Hospital Foundation Satellite Dialysis Unit or charity of one's choice are greatly appreciated. On line condolences to the family or donations can be placed at www.humphreysfh.com The family wishes to extend it's sincere gratitude and appreciation to the doctors, nurses, support staff and volunteers at Charlotte County Hospital for the excellent treatment and care given to Ron during his extended illness. A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful Extra-Mural nurses, Home Support Services workers and to Ron & Margaret's caregiver Rosanna Brown.