Bernard Charles
‘Bernie’ Andrews
Age
82
Lesterdale,
Guysborough County
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of
Bernard Charles Andrews, 82 years young, who passed away at home in
the comfort of his wife and family on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. Born in
Manchester, Guysborough Co., on July 9, 1940, “Bernie” was
the son of the late Charles and Violet (Pelley)
Andrews.
Dad built a ‘fruitful life’ with his bare
hands as he was a skilled carpenter and a laborer despite his lack of
any formal education. He worked closely with his own father
‘Charlie’ early on and they built many things
together. His father’s skills and creativity were instilled
in him and passed down through the Andrews family generation. He took
incredible pride in his work.
Before Mom and Dad were married, he travelled back and forth
to Ontario working various jobs. He was a ‘Jack of all
trades’ and never shied away from a hard day’s
work. He worked locally at fish plants in Mulgrave and Canso and spent
a few years working with NS Power as a linesman.
Our Dad made a living for his family through his own
carpentry business, B Andrews Carpentry. Many houses exist in
Guysborough today that were crafted with his own two hands, and he
took pride in the restoration of the Old Court House Museum. Before
retirement he spent many years working at the Belmont Resort as a
maintenance worker and caretaker of the golf greens. His retirement
didn’t slow him down, he enjoyed
‘tinkering’ around by fixing power saws and
various equipment for people, filing saws, and making wood crafts. He
kept his mind busy and continued to do various building projects when
requested as everyone was aware of his competency in his
work.
Dad was a well-known and well-liked member of the Guysborough
community and area. If you had the opportunity to be present in his
company you were a better off person for it. He was a natural
conversationalist and enjoyed having a good ‘yarn’
with anyone young or old. He had a quick wit about him and contagious
laughter which was inherited by his daughter Gwen.
He enjoyed fishing and hunting; many great memories were
created with friends and family at the camp especially with his
brother Donnie who was also a best friend. They had a wonderful bond
and in particular the last couple of years as they were both battling
cancer together; Donnie was a big comfort for Dad. Entertainment to
him was listening to old country music from George Jones, watching a
good round of boxing and a game of hockey. He liked to keep updated
with current events and enjoyed talking to Merlin at the end of each
day on what had gone on.
Dad was a hard worker and always provided for his family as
best he could. He built a life for himself and family on his
integrity, work ethic, and skilled knowledge. His life was his
schoolhouse, always learning throughout. He enlightened us and others
with his story telling which usually ended with fits of laughter.
Sometimes we wondered if the stories were true but nonetheless created
wonderful moments and memories.
Dad, we are so very proud of your courage, strength, and
perseverance the last couple of years. You were always so positive and
encouraging because I think you knew it was something we needed to
hear. Even when you didn’t feel well you always gave a smile
and pushed forward. It speaks to your integrity, strength, and will.
That ‘Andrews’ fight was admirable, and we thank
you for helping us to cope with all you were going through. It was
setting us up for having to let you go someday, slowly, but on your
terms. Merlin will miss the daily drop ins with you and Gwen will miss
you waiting by the window when she came home to visit. Your absence is
felt incredibly as the house is quieter without your voice, laughter,
and good conversation. A special thank you to Mom for taking care of
our father and remaining by his side always.
Dad is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Patricia
(Williams) Andrews, his children Rose Andrews, Merlin Andrews and
Joshua Andrews all residing in the Boylston area and Gwendolyn
Andrews, Kentville; his only grandchild, Jack Coady who shared the
same birthdate as he did, July 9 th and whom he was so proud
of. He is also survived by his brothers, William “Bill”
Andrews, McPherson’s Lake; Donnie (Cheryl) Andrews,
Boylston. He was predeceased by his brothers, Jerome and
Floyd.
Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation; a
service and burial will take place at a later date when it’s
time for our Mother to be with him. Donations, in his honor, can be
made to GOALS in Guysborough where his daughter Rose
volunteers.
Dad was a kind and giving man. He believed in
‘doing a turn’ for others. This is how he lived
his life by doing good deeds regardless of the situation. In his
honor, we ask that you ‘do a turn’ for someone
that needs it and ‘pay it forward’. Until we see
each other again Dad, rest in peace. We look forward to having a
‘good yarn’ again with you someday.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Dennis Haverstock
Funeral Home, Guysborough. Stories, pictures, and words of comfort may
be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Bernard Charles Andrews 1940 2022..
Dennis Haverstocks funeral homes
Death notice for the town of: Guysborough, Province: Nova Scotia