It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Jude Edward Melanson, age 90, of Amherst, NS formerly of Strathcona, NS. Jude passed away at Gables Lodge on Thursday, May 11, 2023.
Born June 15, 1932 in River Hebert, he was a son of the late Leo and Beatrice (Comeau) Melanson.
Jude worked in the coal mine in River Hebert in his younger years, later hauling coal from the River Hebert mine to the Maccan Power Plant. A route he became so familiar with that he claimed "he knew it like the back of his hand"; not that Jude was one to embellish or exaggerate a story. With a few more stops along the way, Jude retired from driving trucks while at Costin Paving & Contracting Ltd in Amherst . This didn't stop Jude's love of driving as he could often be found on a road trip or adventure with Elsie, later even enjoying a chauffeured view from the backseat with a nice ice cream cone in hand. That should come as no surprise, despite always having a healthy appetite Jude always left room for something sweet after every meal. Beyond his sweets, Jude enjoyed dancing, bowling, playing cards(sometimes with a little skin in the game), telling funny stories/jokes, and rarely missing an opportunity to tease or torment before finally giving you the look that said "Gotcha".
Jude will be dearly missed by his stepdaughter Gayle LeBlanc, Amherst; his step grandchildren Steven Darling, Toronto and Michael LeBlanc, Amherst; special friend and companion Elsie Brown, Amherst. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Besides his parents, Jude was predeceased by his wife Muriel, daughter Susan, brothers Eugene, Basil, Clair, Dara, and Ivan, and sisters Helen, Eileen, and Lorraine.
The family would like to send a special thank you to all the staff at Gables Lodge for the care, compassion, and affection shown to Jude.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777) where a Celebration of Life will take place on Wednesday, May 17th, 2023 from 2 PM until 4 PM.
Donations in Jude's memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre Facebook Page.