Dean Grant Cavanaugh – 89, North River, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Shannex Debert Court, Debert. Born in North River, he was a son of the late Harry and Lottie (McNutt) Cavanaugh.

Dean was a self-employed farmer, first beef and then dairy. He raised Clydesdale horses and went on Covered Wagon Rides. He was a regular at the exhibitions, following "The Circuit" and enjoyed attending the horse pulls and ox pulls. He was a member of Draft Horse Association.

Dean is survived by his children, Deanna Cavanaugh (Jeff Clements), North River; Peter Purvis (Anne), South Branch; Patti Purvis, Bible Hill; grandchildren, Kathleen Corbett (Scott Walker), Berwick; Kristyn Corbett, Pictou; sisters, Marilyn Gilby, Dora Walker, Truro; sisters-in-law, Colleen Whidden, Margaret Cavanaugh, North River; brothers-in-law, Donald Reid, Truro; Wayne Smith, North River; several nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Agnes Madeline (Purvis); sisters, Gail Reid, Florence Smith; brothers, Larry Cavanaugh, Leonard Cavanaugh (Claudia Langille), Delmar Cavanaugh, Layton Cavanaugh.

Special thanks are extended to the wonderful staff at Debert Court, especially Paleo Lane, for their care and love.

Private family interment will be held in Colchester North River Cemetery. If so desired, donations in Dean’s memory to Colchester SPCA or North River Cemetery are welcomed.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com