November 16, 1939—September 16, 2023
It is with profound sadness that the family of Benjamin Shears, ESQ 🤣 (Ben) announce his passing. He passed away surrounded by family at the John M. Gray Center for seniors in St. Anthony on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Ben fought a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s dementia. He leaves to mourn his loving and devoted wife, Beatrice, of 60 years (nee Nicolle), his children Michele (Wade) and Michael (Nadine) and his cherished grandchildren Katie (Patrick), Andrew (Bre), Sarah (Wayne), Joshua (Samantha) and Avery. He was blessed with one great-grandchild, Eleena Hope. He is survived by his beautiful sister Maxine, sisters-in-laws Mildred and Betty and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Ben was predeceased by his parents Richard and Olive Shears, his infant sister Olive, his mother and father-in-law Victoria and James Nicolle, sisters Evelyn, Leila, Georgina and Sharon, brothers Rick, Rod, Austin and sisters and brothers-in-law Thelma, Myra, Max, Bob, Lloyd, Gordon, Klaus.
Ben grew up in Hawkes Bay, but often referred to “home” as St. David’s where he was born. He married the love of his life, Beatrice Nicolle, on August 31,1963. Together they raised two children; Michele and Michael. He ran his own auto body shop for years until he sold it and worked as a school bus driver until his retirement in 2004.
Ben loved the great outdoors and spent time fishing, snowmobiling, berry picking, getting firewood and doing odd jobs around the house for Beatrice or one of his children. He enjoyed close friendships with some who have gone before him; Fred, Kev, Floyd, Melv and Robert. Mack, Ray, Ross, Ron, Ken, Tom, and Ches he mentioned you often; you were important to him. Even in the grips of Alzheimer’s he often said your names.
Ben loved company, a good yarn, an argument or time spent doing things he loved with his favorite people.
In 2016, as the disease progressed, he and Beatrice moved to St. Anthony to be closer to family. In 2019 the heart wrenching decision was made to move him to the John M. Gray Center for seniors. It was there that he lived out the rest of his days with the love of his life visiting every day or every second day as health and strength permitted.
“And out of the cage the bird flew
Soaring up into the rafters
On a wing that had healed good as new”
His family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the front line staff nursing staff at the John M.Gray Center. Staff went above and beyond to respect his personhood, his dignity and all his care needs during his four (4) years at the center. His last days and hours were surrounded by caring and dedicated staff; special thanks to Hayley, Patsy, Georgina, Terri, Alfreda, Trish, Nekita, Valerie and Shanda. Your professionalism and kindness made a difficult situation bearable.
A memorial service will take place at St. Mary’s Anglican church in St. Anthony on Tuesday Sept 19 2023 at 4:00 pm with Rev. Arthur Kinsella officiating. The church will be open at 1:00 pm for viewing, Cremation will follow and the funeral service will be announced at a later date.