John Given Irving, 78 of Bible Hill formerly of Kemptown, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2018, at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre Truro, surrounded by all his girls and family. Born in Kemptown, he was the son of the late David and Vesta (Perrin) Irving. John was an avid outdoors man who enjoyed hunting, fishing and berry picking. He went on many adventures with his good friend and brother-in-law Wayne and sometimes they managed to get into a bit of trouble. John wore many hats, loving husband, never say no father, proud Papa/Grampy caring brother and all around great friend to many. He will be greatly missed by his four legged friend Rosie. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Marie (Best), daughters Juanita (Dave), Mary Ellen (Merlyn), Tracy and Carol Ann (Darren); Grandchildren Corey, Sarah, Taylor, Drew, Lucas, Josh, Cody and Grace; Great Grand-daughter Mackenzie; siblings Helen, Warren (Diane) and Glenda as well as many special brother and sister in laws, nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by bothers Raymond and Alton and sisters Ruby, Beulah and Linda. A special thanks to Dr. Stephen Ellis for his wonderful care for many years. Thank you to Dr. Courtney Smith, John Angus Gatto and all the dedicated nurses on the Palliative Care unit at the CEHHC. Donations can be made to the Colchester East Hants Hospice Society or charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street Truro. A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Kemptown Community Hall on Sunday, February 18, 2018 from 2pm to 4pm. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing John’s obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com

As we look back over time
We find ourselves wondering .....
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For all the times you were by our sides
To help and support us .....
To celebrate our successes
To understand our problems
And accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example,
The value of hard work, good judgment,
Courage and integrity?
We wonder if we ever thanked you
For the sacrifices you made.
To let us have the very best?
And for the simple things
Like laughter, smiles and times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
Gratitude enough for all the things you did,
We're thanking you now.
And we are hoping you knew all along,
How much you meant to us.