Raymond Cantley Howatson

Howatson, Raymond Cantley 1931-2021

Bras d’Or

 With deepest sadness we the family announce the passing of a dear loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Ray passed away on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at the Northside General Hospital. 

Ray was born in Little Bras d'Or on June 20, 1931, the son of the late Charles and Jean (Carmichael) Howatson.  He worked for Canada Post for 35 years, retiring in 1989.  He started the Driftwood Campground in 1968 and with his family's help, he ran the campground for 51 years.  He was a devoted member of Saint Andrews United Church in Little Bras d'Or until it closed.  He also served as an Elder, Member of the Board of Stewards and served on many committees. 

Ray married Barbara Shepherd in 1956 and they made their home in Little Bras d'Or.  There they raised their five beautiful children and the family always enjoyed getting together for lots of laughter, good food and terrific music.  Ray and Barbara always loved their trips south as well as their trips closer to home in their trailer.  Ray and his family loved the water, whether it was swimming, sailing, water-skiing, kayaking or just walking on the beach.  Ray and Barbara both loved hockey and were devoted fans for many years of the Screaming Eagles and were avid Toronto Maple Leaf fans.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Barbara Grace (Shepherd) Howatson.  He is also survived by his daughters Maureen Waterfield, Waverley; Cathy (Ken) Huestis, Hammonds Plains; Melanie Kerr (James Byrne), Prospect Bay.  He is also survived by his sons Ken (Traci) Howatson, Little Bras d'Or; Doug Howatson (Letha Shaw), Sydney Mines.  He is also survived by sisters Ruth (Walter) Leonard, Sydney and Irene Cook, Barrie, Ontario.  He is also survived by his 10 precious grandchildren Barbara, Veronica, Laura, Kevin, Daniel, Steven, Tessa, Maria, Meggan, Amy and 3 great-grandchildren, Olivia, Michael and Alexander.  He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. 

Besides his parents Ray was predeceased by his brother Everett (Bud) Howatson and sisters Margaret (Howatson) Gregor and Elinor (Howatson) Seymour. 

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of 4th Floor Cape Breton Regional Hospital and 4th Floor Northside General Hospital for their excellent care. 

There will be no visitation.  Following Ray's wishes, cremation has taken place.  A private family service will be held at a later date under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.

Memorial donations in his memory can be made to The North Sydney Food Bank or a charity of your choice.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.wjdooley.com.

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