Harold Bezanson

BEZANSON, Harold B. New Glasgow July 29, 1940–October 14, 2019. The Bezanson family of New Glasgow sadly announce the passing of their beloved father and husband, Harold B. Bezanson, on Monday October 14, 2019. Harold is survived by his wife, Florence Lana Bezanson (nee Ferguson); his daughter, Bridget, Burlington, ON; and son, Dwight, Belle River, ON. He is also survived by his sisters, Karen (Grace), and Joan (McNutt). Originally from Elderbank, Nova Scotia, Harold was the 13th of 15 siblings born to Samuel and Mary Elizabeth Bezanson. Harold grew up on a farm and had many fond childhood memories of home, including spending time at his favorite fishing spot along the Musquodoboit River. Harold graduated from Normal School (Teacher’s College) in Truro, and began his teaching career in Nova Scotia, eventually making his way to Montreal in the early 1960s, where he attended Sir George Williams University (now Concordia). While teaching in the Montreal suburb of Mont Saint Hilaire, Harold met his future wife, Lana. Harold and Lana resided in Otterburn Park until the mid-1970s. In 1974, Harold and family returned to the Maritimes, as Harold accepted a position at East Pictou Rural High where he was affectionately known to many of his students and colleagues as “Mr. B” or, to some, as “Wiggy.” While teaching, he went on to receive his Master’s degree from St. Francis Xavier University. Harold taught at East Pictou Rural High until his retirement in June 1994. Through the years, Harold was heavily involved in school-related community-based activities and fundraisers and enjoyed helping his students inside and outside the classroom. During his post retirement years, Harold enjoyed exercising his green thumb via his love of gardening, watching his beloved Habs on TV and in Montreal, reading, and traveling throughout the Maritimes. In May 2004, Harold answered a call to public service and accepted a civilian appointment to the Nova Scotia College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he had a prominent role reviewing medical cases and lending a voice to those who could not necessarily speak for themselves. Harold remained in this capacity until May 2012 when he stepped down from his position due to health and family reasons. Throughout his remaining years, Harold continued to enjoy his retirement and his time with family, and he continued to defy the physical afflictions he faced. There is no funeral service or wake as per Harold’s wishes. A graveside ceremony will take place at Saint Andrew’s Church Cemetery in Elderbank on Sunday, October 27, 2019, at 3 pm, with refreshments to follow at Saint Andrews Church, 36 Elderbank Back Rd, Elderbank, NS, B0N 1K0. Donations may be made to any of the following: Parkinson’s Canada, Diabetes Canada, Heart and Stroke Foundation or Glen Haven Manor, Recreation Fund. Arrangements are under the direction of the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow. Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca