It is with great sadness that the family of Benson (Ben) Donald Stymiest, husband of Margaret (McLean) Stymiest, announces his passing that occurred on December 9, 2021, at the Tracadie Hospital following a period of ill health. Born May 19, 1930, in Tabusintac, New Brunswick, he was the last surviving child of the late James Earl Stymiest and Nellie Eva (Robertson) Stymiest.
In addition to his loving wife, he leaves behind four children: Donald (Beth) of Bathurst, NB, David (Therese) of Shediac, NB, Beth of Moncton, NB, and Sybil (Greg Smith) of Ottawa, ON. Benson is also survived by six grandchildren: Andrew, John, Catherine, Alison, Madeleine, and Harriet, and one great grandchild, Ethan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Ben was predeceased by his four brothers, Ephriam, Earl, Lorne, and Bobby and three sisters, Marguerite, Eva, and Beryl.
Ben graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a degree in Geology. He went on to work in the mining and oil industries before becoming a teacher in Moncton in 1965. He started his teaching career, while concurrently earning his Bachelor of Education degree from Mount Allison University, at Harrison Trimble High School where he taught physics and chemistry, and coached football. In 1970, he became the Vice Principal, and later, after earning his Master of Education in School Administration from UNB, the Principal of Hillcrest Junior High School in Moncton from where he retired in 1990.
For many years, Ben was very involved with several different organizations in the Moncton area including the Masonic Lodge, Shriners, Minor Hockey, Minor Baseball and
the Progressive Conservative Party.
Ben enjoyed traveling with Margaret, and together they visited all parts of Canada and many different countries. Upon his retirement, he and Margaret returned to Tabusintac in the summers to run a bed and breakfast out of Margaret’s family homestead (Country Roses Inn) where they welcomed visitors from around the world. Ben and Margaret moved to Tabusintac full time in 2002 where they hosted many family gatherings over the years. Ben was a great storyteller and enjoyed people’s company.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Tracadie Hospital for their care of Ben over the last five weeks. As well, the family would like to thank all of Ben’s caregivers over the years, and especially Laudina Savoie and Cindy Leveille, Ben’s, and Margaret’s, primary caregivers whose care and compassion allowed them to remain at home together in their twilight years.
At the request of the family there will be no visitation. The Funeral Service will be held Wednesday December 15, 2021 held at 11a..m. at Davidson’s Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Jean Herman officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery later in the spring.
Donations in memory of Ben may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of New Brunswick.
Arrangements are in the care of Davidson’s Funeral Home, 622-7464 or online at info@davidsonsfh.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Benson Donald Stymiest 2021..
Davidson’s Funeral Service Ltd
Death notice for the town of: Miramichi, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick
My condolences to the Stymiest family on Ben’s passing. I have many fond memories of Ben as we followed the boys around the hockey rinks and football fields. Socially, Pauline and I enjoyed many get togathers and the odd bubble with Ben, Margaret and the gang.
– George Mattison
So sorry to hear of Mr. Stymiest passing away. I was a student at HTHS in early 70’spring and had Mrs.Stymiest as grade 20 homeroom teacher. She taught me French. I lost my spouse after 42 yrs. Of marriage dec 4th 2016. Not easy any time but Christmas is harder on the family.I just want u to know that u are all in my prayers. Hold the memory of him in your hearts and he will ne with you always. RIP Mr. Stymiest.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time
Robert Mac Eachern and family