Obituary of Edward Joseph Fougere

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Papa, Edward Joseph Fougere, known to many as Eddie, age 78, of Poirierville. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on December 26th at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital in Antigonish, NS. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Eddie was the firstborn child of Lorraine and Clement Fougere. Eddie was known for his zest for life and his spirited, no-nonsense approach in his younger years. A skilled Red Seal painter, labourer, and fisherman, Eddie was a true jack of all trades—and, in his mind, a master of them all. He often shared stories of his adventures on the draggers and his travels across the country. Deeply involved in his community, Eddie was an active member of several organizations, including the Royal Canadian Legion, the New Horizons Club, and the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Hall. He was also a proud member of the Painters and Labourers Union. Eddie had a love for card games, and he often gathered with friends and family across Richmond County for evenings filled with laughter and friendly competition. His strategic mind and playful nature made him a formidable opponent, and his sneaky tricks—like holding onto that elusive 5—always provided a good laugh. Eddie was a prankster, and whether at his own expense or that of others, his wit ensured that everyone had a good time in his company. A devoted sports fan, Eddie could often be found either in his chair or his car, watching his favourite player—his son Clem—or following the Boston Bruins and Team Canada. Whether with a cup of tea or a Busch Light in hand, Eddie enjoyed visiting family, always surrounded by love. We will fondly remember him sitting by the front window of his home, watching the birds with his grandchildren, and showering them with his enduring affection. His one-liners, his clever tricks, and his sage advice—like the countless times he told his granddaughter Nikita, “Let’s learn something new today”—will remain with us forever. We will continue to offer our “lub” and support to each other, just as he taught us. Eddie will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Vivian, and their children: Nadine (Matt), Wanda, Crystal (Troy), Clem (Tara), and T.C. (Michel). He is also survived by his eight grandchildren: Nikita (Nathan), Marcus (Makaila), Kaleb, Brooklyn, Tessa, Emra, Kade, and Tenley, as well as his only great-grandchild, Alivia. Eddie is also survived by his sister, Shirley (Donald), and sisters-in-law: Margaret (Sandy), Delia (Vincent), and Claire. His gruff nature, quick wit, and the love he shared will remain close to our hearts. Eddie was predeceased by his parents, his in-laws David and Lillie Boudreau, his brother Donnie Fougere, his sister Marjorie Keating, and many brothers and sisters-in-law. Eddie was cherished by his extended family, friends, and all those who considered him a "second father." In lieu of a traditional visitation, a celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2025, where memorial donations can be made at that time. A heartfelt thank you goes to the incredible care team in the Emergency and Palliative Care Units at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital in Antigonish, especially Dr. Cooper, for keeping “Steady Eddie” on the straight and narrow. May the waves of Cap La Ronde, Eddie’s favourite place on earth, guide him to his final resting place.