Nova Tambeau (nee Dahr)
On June 15, 2026, our beloved mother peacefully made her final journey home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on November 12, 1939, in Amherst, Nova Scotia, to George and Gladys (nee Pettigrew) Dahr, Mom was the youngest of five daughters. Although the family endured the loss of their father during WWII, the sisters grew up surrounded by love, resilience, laughter, and an unbreakable bond. Together, they created a lifetime of cherished memories and undoubtedly kept their mother on her toes.
Mom's greatest joys in life were her faith, the children she taught, and the family she loved so deeply. Her devotion to God guided her throughout her life and was reflected in the kindness, patience, and generosity she shared with everyone she met.
For most of her career, Mom taught elementary school at West Highlands School in Amherst, NS. She was a dedicated and compassionate educator who believed every child deserved the very best. The impact she made on her students was profound, and many returned years later to visit the teacher who had helped shape their lives. Following her retirement, she treasured the monthly gatherings with former colleagues, enjoying the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and continue the friendships formed throughout her teaching career.
As her children, we were blessed beyond measure to have a mother whose life revolved around her family. She filled our childhood with love, encouragement, and unwavering support. Some of our happiest memories are of family gatherings filled with laughter, good food, games, and togetherness. Mom often said that her greatest wish was to live long enough to see her children able to stand on their own. Every year she spent watching her family grow beyond that was, in her eyes, a treasured gift.
When grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived, Mom embraced her role as "Grammy/Grammie" with boundless enthusiasm. She delighted in spending time with each of them, never hesitating to get down on the floor to play games, share stories, and create lasting memories. She had a special bond with each one of them and was always their biggest cheerleader. Through her example, she taught generations the importance of positivity, kindness, family, and finding the best place to enjoy an ice cream.
Mom touched countless lives with her warmth and gentle spirit. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Conversations with her left people feeling lighter and better for having spent time in her presence. Her patience seemed endless, even during the many occasions when we undoubtedly tested it.
A faithful Christian, Mom devoted many years to serving at First Baptist Church in Amherst. Her faith was not only something she believed—it was something she lived every day. Her legacy of service, compassion, and devotion will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Mom was predeceased by an infant son, Jean Marc; her sisters, Georgina Eisenhauer and Doreen Demond; her brothers-in-law, Bill Demond and Dennis Haynes; her niece, Holly Haynes; and her nephew, Stephen Eisenhauer.
She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Celin (Duane) Alexiuk, Carl (Cathy) Tambeau, and Jo-Anne (Paul) McLean; her grandchildren, Adrienne, Scott, Ryan, Jeanette, Derek, Greg, and Jeff; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Isabella, Matthew, Abby, Myah, Madilyn, Landon, Luca, Bailey, Sadie, Rylan, and Bode. She will also be lovingly remembered by several cherished fur babies.
While our hearts are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in the countless memories she gave us, the values she instilled, and the love she shared so freely. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved.
As you remember Mom, please remember her with joy, laughter, and gratitude. She was very clear about her wishes: no moping. Instead, laugh often, love deeply, and enjoy good food. Share a Tim Hortons coffee, treat yourself to an ice cream, and celebrate the happiness she brought to so many lives.
Mom, we are so grateful for the precious moments we shared with you during your final days as you began your journey home. Those memories will remain in our hearts forever.
Words cannot adequately express our gratitude to the extraordinary staff at Dykeland Lodge, Mom's home for the past two and a half years. The love and respect she earned there were evident in the countless visits she received during her final week. Mom formed meaningful friendships with both residents and staff, and she genuinely appreciated the kindness, compassion, and care she received each day. In turn, she touched the lives of many with her warmth, positivity, and friendship. Though her time there was relatively short, the impact she made will be felt for years to come.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral Centre in Amherst, 70 Church St., NS. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on June 19th, 2026 at Jones Family Funeral Centre. Service and reception to follow immediately after the visitation.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mom's memory may be made to First Baptist Church, Amherst, Nova Scotia, Dykeland Lodge, Windsor, Nova Scotia (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=WXD93XW5MTUBJ), or a charity of your choice.
Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Nova's online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre Facebook Page.