Obituaries

 

Bernard L. MacPhee

Passed 6/15/2026

Text:

Obituary For Bernard L. MacPhee

MacPhee, Bernard L. Peacefully on June 15 at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, NS age 88 years. Born to the late Ralph and Mildred (née Delp), Bernard grew up in MacPhee’s Corner and Shubenacadie.

As a young man, he was employed at Watson Smith and Sons Hardware and Tin Shop in Shubenacadie. In 1960 he moved to Dartmouth, where he entered the employ of Louis Manuel, owner of Ace Home Hardware (later, ‘Action’). In 1985, Bernard assumed part-ownership of Action, by then located at Penhorn Shopping Mall.

Asked recently by a friend, what Bernard cherished most about his working years, he responded simply and without hesitation, ‘the people’. Over his many years in business, he earned a reputation for excellence both in terms of his tireless work ethic and customer service.

Bernard had a lifelong passion for music; it was tied inextricably to his Christian faith and flowed from him naturally. As a boy, he played the pump organ in the MacPhee’s Corner church, a place that remained close to his heart all his life. He never forgot the thrill of singing tenor in the Shubenacadie United Church, particularly choruses from Handel’s Messiah. Throughout his life, Bernard had a knack for drawing music out of whatever instrument was at hand, be it an accordion, guitar, piano or even a violin.

His outward sense of quiet dignity and propriety belied his delightful sense of humour. He loved to tell anecdotes from his youth, conjuring up people and places long since vanished, but vividly gathered at the shore of his memory.

Bernard and Sandra shared nearly 60 years of married life. They were for one another a strength and stay. Together they built a loving and stable home, into which their son Garth was born in 1971. In spite of having just one child, the family home was busy and joyful, full of music and laughter.

Bernard was a member of the Dartmouth Lions Club and took part in many activities through that service club. He was a member of Grace United Church for fifty years, serving on the Official Board in the 80s. Bernard volunteered at the Saint George’s Soup Kitchen for a number of years. He loved to ride his bicycle and take brisk walks.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Sandra (née Peers) and their son, Garth; brother Ivan (Margaret); sister-in-law Marilyn Melanson (James Betts. Predeceased by his brother, Glenn (Faye). He was a favourite uncle to his nieces and nephews, all of whom recall his kindness and sense of humour.

Heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Veteran’s 3rd floor, East for their exemplary care and compassion in Bernard’s final days. To Dr Paige Moorhouse, Dr Joshua Goodwin and Dr Mike Van Ginkel, the family is especially thankful for wise counsel and kind consideration.

As per his wishes, Bernard has been cremated. A memorial service will take place on Friday, July 10 at 2pm in the MacPhee’s Corner United Church.

Donations in Bernard’s memory may be directed to a charity of your choice, or to the Friends of Saint George’s Society for the parish music programme.

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Condolences

  • 07/10/2026

    Cheryl and Debbie LeCaine

    Heartfelt condolences to Sandra, Garth and family along with Bernard's many friends. May the support of family and friends give you the strength to get through these difficult times.

  • 07/07/2026

    Lara Triehy

    Sandra & Garth, we are so sorry for your loss. I am so very thankful that we made it up to visit last summer. I will never forget what a kind, warm and loving man Bernard was. I can only imagine the two cousins, my mom and Bernard, sharing great stories with each other in heaven. I am forever grateful to call you my family. May you be comforted by the wonderful memories you shared. With all our love- Lara & Andy

  • 07/04/2026

    Liz Townsend

    We honour Bernard by honouring his son Garth who has been a great musical friend for years. We met Garth through his great musical contributions at St Matthew's United when we sang in the choir. We admired his ongoing musical success including his leadership now at St George's Anglican Church. Garth carries his father's kindness & faith in so many ways. We are mourning with you Garth in your sadness in losing your father. Warmth & love from Liz Townsend & Harry Robertson.

  • 06/29/2026

    Rosey Elizondo

    Sandra, Garth & family, we were so very sorry to hear of Bernard's passing. He was always so very friendly to us and a dear neighbour to our daughter Daniella, and her family. He never missed a chance to give us a warm hello, and chit chat about the weather. He will be truly missed. Sending our most heartfelt condolences to you. Daniel & Rosey Elizondo

  • 06/26/2026

    Paul Naugler

    So sorry to hear of Bernards passing. While still in school (DHS) I also worked with him at Ace home and Auto for Lou and Barry Manuel. Please accept my sincerest condolences Paul Naugler

  • 06/25/2026

    Russ & Mary Trimper

    Hi Sandra. Mary and I are saddened to learn of Bernard's Death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Please accept our sincere condolences.

  • 06/25/2026

    Courtnee Peers

    I was very saddened to hear about uncle Bernard. When I was younger he said "never say goodbye, always say see you later. Goodbyes are forever" rest in peace ❤️ see ya later.

  • 06/25/2026

    Sandra Weeks

    Sandra and Garth, We are so very sorry to hear of Bernard's passing. We always loved visits with him when we were small as he would joke with us and make fun. He was a wonderful man. Sandra Weeks and family

  • 06/24/2026

    Lealon and Sharon Mac Phee

    Bernard was a quiet and gentle man. One of my favourite cousins. Had a lot of laughs at his home in Mill Village and Mac Phee's corner. Our Sincere Sympathy to Sandra and Garth. RIP.

  • 06/24/2026

    Janice Mason

    I remember Bernard as the most helpful and friendly "go to guy" at the Hardware store in Penhorn Mall. His obituary reads a lovely story of a caring and loving family man. Having taught (and sung with) Garth when he was an organist while in Junior High, I wanted to send my condolences to your family.

  • 06/23/2026

    Jane MacPhee

    Sorry to read of Bernard's passing. He and my late husband Wilfred MacPhee created wonderful childhood memories which they liked to share. Sincere sympathy, Jane MacPhee

  • 06/23/2026

    Laura Selig

    It is with much sadness to hear that Bernard has passed away. Bernard was a very kind and thoughtful person and friend; along with Ivan and Glenn to our immediate and extended family. I remember spending many times with the three of them with my uncles and my older brothers at my Grammie Hutt's in Shubenacadie. There was always lots of music and laughter and sometimes card playing. I have so many fond memories. From time to time when I was back in the area I would see and chat with Bernard. It was always a pleasure. He will be greatly missed y all who had the privilege of knowing him. My Sincerest Condolences to Ivan and Margie and the other members of the family. With Love and Prayers; Laura Selig

  • 06/23/2026

    Beverly Strople

    On June 5th the earth lost a wonderful kind man,Bernard was such an easy person to be with,always a joke or story to tell,Carl and I cherished our friendship with him and Sandra,Bernard's faith was unyielding and we know he is up there somewhere telling his stories and playing the organ and singing his praises,God Bless you Bernard,you will be our hearts forever.LOVE YOU FRIEND BEV AND CARL

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