In his 89th year, Dad peacefully passed away at Tabor Manor surrounded with love on Wednesday, May 24. 2023 He continued to mourn the loss of his beloved Joyce (Mahaney) since her passing on June 17, 2021. Left to mourn are his children Lenora Monteith (David), Clint (Lynn Upper), Tim (Vikki DeCaire), and Michelle Chapman (Dave); grandchildren Melissa Monteith (Jason Lusby), Kristen Baillie (Brent), Joshua Sears. Caleb Sears (d.), Kadesh Sears, Tanya Sears (Andrew Porter), Elizabeth Kennedy, Brandon Sears, Elyssia Fedyck (Trevor), Cain Chapman and eleven great-grandchildren.

Dad was born August 30, 1934 in the small fishing village of Woods Harbour, Nova Scotia to the late Fred and Lenora (Malone) Sears, brother to Effie Sears (d. Bryant), brother-in-law to June Smith (d. Jim), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. After the birth of their first two children, our parents moved to Liverpool, Nova Scotia where Dad became a constable with the Liverpool Police. He went on to become Chief of Police and Mom was Matron of the jail that was connected to our house.

In February 1969, we moved to St. Catharines, Ontario because our parents wanted to give us opportunities for a better life. Dad was hired by the then St. Catharines City Police, now Niagara Regional Police (NRP), where he retired as a Sergeant.

Throughout his career, he obtained numerous awards for his dedication and work ethic, such as highest marks in his class and Medal of Merit. The most important recognition to him was respect and companionship from his fellow officers. It has been brought to our attention by several co-workers that our dad is a known ‘legend’ with NRP and would never ask anything of his fellow officers that he wouldn’t do himself.

After several years of health issues, Dad is now at peace and reunited with Mom. We will never forget the unconditional love you gave us and will continue to smile and laugh when sharing memories with our family and friends. You are our legend too!

We wish to thank Dr. Greenway and the amazing staff at Tabor Manor for the care Dad received over the past 23 months. You met his physical, mental and spiritual needs 24/7; we thank all departments involved in making this excellent care possible. A special thanks to the Fourth floor staff, Pastor Don, and Stephen for your compassion, visits, music and prayers, which meant so much to not only Dad but to our family as well.

As per Dad’s wishes cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest beside Mom in Nova Scotia at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Passfield Mortuary Services Inc. St. Catharines.

If desired, donations to Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Society or MS Society would be appreciated by the family.