Obituaries

 

Carman Weston Fader

Passed 01/20/2024

Text:

Obituary For Carman Weston Fader

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carman Fader, age 88, on January 20, 2024 at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre due to complications following hip surgery.

Carman Weston Fader, was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in June of 1935. He was the third of four rambunctious boys born to Herbert and Lorna (Macdougall) Fader.

Carman is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, his four children, Tanya (Andrew), Duncan (Jenny), Weston (Vivian) and Afton (Terry), and his six grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, all of whom loved their Grampy’s exuberant presence.

Carm was a natural entertainer. He was rarely caught without one of his many mouth-organs (aka harmonica) in a pocket or his wife’s purse and could play, spur-of-the-moment, on any occasion from restaurant birthdays to hockey tournaments. Carman loved to play music with anyone willing to jam, especially with his brother Wayne on the banjo and Cam Reid on the guitar.

As a dedicated attendee of Calvin Presbyterian Church, he could be seen at the end of the pew most Sundays, “listening” with his eyes closed. In recent years he often performed solos of his favorite hymns as part of Sunday services.

Carman loved animals, especially other people’s pets, and particularly dogs. Animals always seemed to gravitate toward him, and he was able to speak to them, literally. He did more barking at dogs than Dr. Doolittle. If you heard a bark with not a dog in sight, it was likely Carm passing by in the van with his mortified kids hiding from view in the backseat.

From ballroom dancing to scuba diving, there weren’t many sporting endeavors Carman did not enjoy whether it was for himself or his family. He met his wife of 56 years, Nancy, skating at the old Saint Mary’s rink. Being devoted parents, they nurtured a family of athletes, exposing them to a wide array of sports opportunities.

With Carman at the wheel of the “Fader-Invader”, the family’s orange and brown GMC van (outfitted with curtains, carpet, and pegboard), family vacations to Cornwall PEI, and weekend ski trips to Wentworth were filled with stories, blaring radio, kids wrestling in the back and harmonica serenades. Over the years, Carm shuttled his kids, and dozens of others between activities, eventually transitioning to Fader’s Taxi service, operating hours 2am - 4am, Wednesday through Sunday from downtown Halifax to Quinn Street.

Following his retirement from CN Rail after 41 years, he and Nancy went on to travel across Canada, to the US, and as far as Japan to visit their kids and grandchildren. Together, they continued dancing, skating, skiing, walking, and spending time with friends and family near and far. The extent of their community of friends and family was never more apparent than during the celebrations of Carman's 80th birthday and, two years later, his and Nancy’s 50th wedding anniversary when they hosted full houses at the Connolly Street Shriner’s Hall with their favorite dance band.

Carman was a larger-than-life personality who left an impression on everyone he met, carried a solid heart of gold in his left breast pocket, and was known for his kindness as much as his drop-in visits.

We shall be holding a service celebrating Carman’s life on Saturday, January 27th, at 2:00 pm at Calvin Presbyterian Church, Ashburn Avenue, Halifax. We welcome condolences and shared memories on this page.

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

  • 02/15/2024

    Dear Nancy and family, We are deeply sorry to hear of Carmen's passing. He was larger than life and a joy to be around. The memories of him on harmonica and Dad on guitar, whiling away an afternoon with music and song are treasured and we hope those happy memories will help ease the grief as days go by. With love, Loreen Reid, on behalf of Hazel Reid and family

  • 02/06/2024

    To the Fader family Sorry to read of Carman,s passing. I met Carman at CNin Halifax in the 1980,s where I worked for Freight Sales and marketing at that time. We would chat occasionally as we crossed paths going to and from work, never got to know him very well, but he was very friendly and a gentleman from my views. I note in the obit that he was 4 months younger than I, born 1935, He June and me Feb. Please accept my sincerest sympathy. Glen DeMond, South Brookfield, N.S.

  • 02/04/2024

    Nancy and family: Nancy, you and I have memories of teaching together. Dave often spoke of Carmen during his hockey stories of the "boys", Duncan and Eric, the hockey trips and good times. Dave passed away in October so I know what you are going through. God bless you as you begin this new chapter. My sincere condolences.

  • 02/04/2024

    Nancy and family, I offer my sincere condolences on Carmen's passing. Nancy , you and I have memories from teaching together and Dave often spoke of Carmen, Duncan and Eric, the rink and hockey trips. Dave passed away in October so I know what you are going through. God bless as you navigate this next chapter.

  • 02/03/2024

    We met Carman and Nancy about 25 years ago through ballroom dancing. They were experienced dancers, and we were just the beginners. Through Carman and Nancy we made a lot of good friends. Carman was always reaching out and very inclusive. We enjoyed his bubbly personality, and enjoyed his harmonica entertainment, especially after every dinner get-together. We miss him greatly. Our sincere sympathy and loving thoughts to Nancy and family. Shirin and Jim Jagosh

  • 02/03/2024

    Dear Nancy and Family. It was with heartfelt sadness that I learned of Carman's passing. It was only a short while ago I saw you and Carman at Costco and we had a brief chat. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts. I am sure that your wonderful memories of Carman and the support of loving family and friends will sustain you in this time of sorrow and help you find renewal in the future. Peter Delefes

  • 02/02/2024

    To; Nancy and family: So sorry to hear of Carman's passing, when living in MacDougall Settlement we always looked forward to the Fader Boys coming up to spend the summer at the farm. There was always additional fun, laughter and play during their visit. Every time we have met over the years, there were always tales of those happy days. My thoughts and prayers are especially with you at this time. Sincerely, Carol (Teed) Gordon

  • 01/31/2024

    To Nancy and family. Please accept our most Heartfelt Sympathy on the passing of Carman. Although we met very briefly at Jimmy and Shirin"s place many years ago Carman always asked about us whenever he spoke to Jimmy and Shirin. We also spoke to him on the phone many times. Although he never went to Ireland he played many Irish Tunes on his harmonica. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult times. May he rest in Peace. Freddy and Eileen (England UK.)

  • 01/30/2024

    Nancy, Tanya, and family. So very sorry to hear of Carmen's passing. May your wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort. Hugs, Audrey and Suzanne Gerrior

  • 01/29/2024

    I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending you wishes for many warm memories at this time. Lots of love, Meghan Norris (MacDonald)

  • 01/29/2024

    To Nancy and family, Elaine and I extend our our sincere sympathy regarding Carmen's passing. He was a very special man, and we will always remember the fun times we shared when David and Duncan played with the Halifax Macs.

  • 01/28/2024

    My Mum (Brenda) cherished family and would have been touched by yesterday's beautiful service celebrating Carman's wonderful life. Wishing Nancy and family the deepest of sympathies.

  • 01/27/2024

    Uncle Carman, we will miss you. We'll miss the impromptu visits with Nancy at Mom's, your stories, serenading us (and the kids) with the harmonica and, of course, always getting a few barks out of Buddy. Our thoughts and prayers will be with Nancy, Tanya, Duncan, Weston, Afton and their families. Love, Pawel and Leanne Nowakowski

  • 01/27/2024

    Dear Nancy and family, I just received news of Carmen's death from the Murray family facebook site tonight too late to attend the funeral. I loved reading the obituary which described what a wonderful family life you and Carmen enjoyed. I loved meeting so many of you on the boat cruise of the harbor a few summers ago. I met so many of the Murray cousins and it was great to see you all again. I have fond memories of meeting Carmen and I offer my sympathy to you and your family as you honor and remember a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Wendy Murray

  • 01/27/2024

    I wish to offer my condolences to Carman's family. I enjoyed working with him at CN and meeting up with him at senior skating as he always had a joke to tell or a funny story to share.

  • 01/27/2024

    My deepest sympathies to you, Nancy, Duggan, Weston, who played for our our Bantam hockey program and the remaining family on the passing of Carman. Due to my recent illness I couldn't make it to the funeral but my thoughts and prayers were with you. It was always a pleasure to meet up with Carman at our Bantam games or lately at breakfast on Sundays at the Lady Hammong Grill. Again very sadden by his passing but grateful to have known such a wonderful and colorful person. May he rest in peace.

  • 01/27/2024

    Nancy and Family: I was so sorry to hear of Carman's passing. He was such a wonderful man and just to say his name brings a smile to my face. I hope you will find comfort in the loving memories you have of him in the days ahead. Nancy Purchase

  • 01/27/2024

    Carmen was a wonderful neighbor. I remember the fun summer barbecue parties that he and Nancy hosted annually , where they had fun singalongs with with Cathy and Ken, Tom Powers, Wayne Fader and numerous others. The xmas parties were great listening to carols at the piano and followed up by a wonderful buffet. Nancy made the best tea biscuits. I'll always remember Carmen as being so upbeat and enjoyable being around. Rest in peace and God Bless Heather MacDonald (nee Powers)

  • 01/27/2024

    Nancy and Family, Sincere condolences on Carman's Death. While we haven't visited with Carman and Nancy in a few years we remember the parties at Jack and Ritas, Ballroom dancing and off course his always present harmonica. Reading his obituary reminds us Carman's love of life, great conversations and many opinions shared. Great memories. Alan /Mona Ellies

  • 01/27/2024

    So sorry to hear of Carman's passing. I am a cousin from the MacDougall side of the Family. Our sincere sympathy. Harv and Lois (Mugridge) Glibbery

  • 01/27/2024

    Dear Nancy and family.So sorry and my deepest sympathy. Many a ballroom dance we enjoyed together and the polkas.Great memories and a family connection too. With caring thoughts and prayers Doris Cassidy

  • 01/27/2024

    It was our good fortune to meet Carman and Nancy at CPO Mess dances, through shared close friends, Jimmy and Shirin Jagosh. His kindness, sociability and harmonica talent ensured that he was the "life of every party "that he ever attended! Condolences to Nancy and family . Fred Honsberger and Suzan MacLean

  • 01/27/2024

    I am so sorry to learn of Carman's passing, but grateful for the opportunity to acknowledge the very bright light that he was in this life and the influence of that brightness on those who crossed paths with him. Carman was a remarkable individual, due in part to his outstanding personality and exceptional, homespun wisdom and insight. Carman ranked among the most genuine and authentic people that anyone could possibly meet. It would be impossible to meet Carman more than once and not call him a friend for Life. Nancy and young Faders, you were Carman's pride and joy. The emptiness you are now feeling is the product of lives of of privilege for having Carman as husband and father. Tony Purchase

  • 01/27/2024

    Elizabeth and I are so sorry to hear of Carman's sudden passing and wish to send our sincere condolences to Nancy and family. We always loved being in his presence with his wit and music and I particularly so enjoyed our music sessions at the Centennial Arena. We have special memories as the guests of Carman and Nancy at the Base Mess for a meal and dance. He will always be in our hearts.

  • 01/27/2024

    We wish to offer our condolences to Nancy and family on the passing of Carmen , we'll never forget meeting him at all the kids activities. I wish I had half his energy. Robin and Marlene Falconer

  • 01/27/2024

    Nancy and family, Sorry to hear of Carman's passing. I always enjoyed seeing him at the C&PO mess. Nancy and Carmen would dance around the floor greeting friends as they went. Carman would always treat us to a tune on the harmonica sometime during the evening. He had such a great sense of humor that he shared with all of us. We will miss seeing him. Rest in peace Carman.

  • 01/27/2024

    Duncan, Weston and the entire Fader family, our condolences on the passing of your Dad. I how welcoming and kind he was on the opportunities I had to meet him. At 88, with a wonderful family and legacy that he has been able to pass on through his children and impact on others, he truly won at the game of life. I wish you all more fond memories in this time to be together and celebrate all of the joy he brought to the world. May he rest in peace until you meet again. - Tim & Kirsten MacEachern

  • 01/26/2024

    Nancy and family...so sorry to hear of Carman's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • 01/26/2024

    Nancy and Family...sincere condolences to all of you on Carmen's passing. He has left you and many others with wonderful memories. Our prayers are with you. Jock and Janet Murray

  • 01/26/2024

    To the (Wes) Fader Family; Our condolences to you and your family in the passing of your Dad. We're praying that you'll be comforted by the many memories you shared together. Wayne and Barb Young

  • 01/26/2024

    Nancy, Tanya, Duncan, Weston and Afton, Shawn and I have been frequently recalling fond memories of Uncle Carmen. He always was the life of a party and his musical talent on the harmonica was his signature talent. I will always treasure memories of summer family gatherings at the Fader farm. One of the first memories that always comes to mind is Carmen and Wayne sitting in the sun, admiring their fields, having a yarn, and then excitedly greeting our twins, Kendra & Kinsey, as they toddled over to join them. I uploaded the pics I captured of that very moment. The farm was a special place that Wayne and Carmen enjoyed together. Sending our love and hugs. Shawn, Laura, Kendra & Kinsey

  • 01/26/2024

    The Smith family of Fryeburg, Maine all recollect a fascinating man rather large and boisterous but quite friendly when you got to know him. Suddenly a mouth organ would appear and low and behold Celtic music or sea chanty music would fill the air. Are these the people from Nova Scotia? This was fun and all the children would gather round to listen, and the beer tasted just a little bit better as we tapped our feet. Quite a guy. I am sure he will be missed by all. Thanks for the memories Carman. Don't stop playing. Love to all and our sympathies, Ralph

  • 01/26/2024

    Nancy and Family: I am so sorry to read of Carman's passing and wish you the comfort of wonderful memories, supportive family and friends, and an abiding faith. I think back to the Tupper days and the strong family that you are. Kind thoughts and sincere prayers at this time of sadness and loss. Cynthia Pilichos

  • 01/26/2024

    Dear Nancy We are thinking of you and your family as you say goodbye to Carmen. We loved our chats at Ilsley gatherings and admired his enthusiastic and unwavering support of his children in all their activities. Our deepest sympathies on your loss. Sheila and Sandy Clark

  • 01/26/2024

    Dear Nancy and family. I was so saddened in reading of Carman's passing, and in recalling the many great conversations I had with him many years ago. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers as you travel through this difficult time together. Sincerely, Michael Nee

  • 01/26/2024

    Dear Nancy and Family, I was very sorry to hear of Carman's passing. I last spoke to him when I called him after hearing of his brother Wayne's passing, as I went to school with him. Please know, that my thoughts and prayers go out to you at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Carman, you will be missed by many. Sincerely, Jean (Hackett) Foisy

  • 01/26/2024

    Sincere condolences to Nancy and family on the passing of Carman, Carman was considered a valued member of the Ilsley family. May he rest in peace. Paul Puma

  • 01/26/2024

    Hello everyone, I am Jennifer, Duncan's wife and I'm also Carman's daughter-in-law. It hurts our hearts that we can't be there in person with you all, but we send our love and our prayers. Carman has always been a very charismatic person with a kind and gentle heart. He was cheerful, optimistic, and humble. We connected through our shared love of music. As I sang, he would play the harmonica. When I heard him play for the first time, I couldn't believe that he was self-taught, and some of my fondest memories are from when we would sing together. No matter what, there are so many wonderful memories of my father-in-law will stay in my heart forever. Your grandchildren will forever miss you. May you forever rest in peace. Love, Jennifer, Ariel, Gabriel and Zachary

  • 01/26/2024

    To the Fader family, I offer my sincere condolences. You are a wonderful family. With heartfelt thoughts, Mrs. Housser

  • 01/26/2024

    I remember fondly all of my interactions with "Mr. Fader" many years ago in the rinks and always walked away a smarter man! My thoughts and prayers are with the Fader Family! Don Horne

  • 01/26/2024

    Dear Nancy and family, Donna and I send you our sincere condolences on Carman's passing. He was a positive and entertaining person. Thinking of you! John and Donna Murray

  • 01/26/2024

    Our neighbour and friend. We met Carman and Nancy when we moved to Canada. What a pleasure it was to know him as a friend. We will miss your laughter , stories, harmonica and love for life. May the Lord give your family comfort and peace.

  • 01/26/2024

    Being a regular visitor to the Fader home since the early fifties and being Wayne's best friend I knew Carmen pretty well . It wasn't until later in life we got together frequently when Carmen joined our little group of folk singing privateers . He was a truly gifted harmonica player and showman . He is reunited with Wayne up yonder playing his " harp" for the other angels . Carmen through all his adversities exuded confidence and an exuberance like no one else . God bless you brother and our deepest condolences to Nancy and the rest of the family. Ken and Cathy Partington

  • 01/26/2024

    Nancy and family, A lot of fond memories interacting with Carman over the years, A true gentleman and a prankster. RIP.

  • 01/26/2024

    Hi Nancy sorry for your family`s loss.You and Carman took me back to Halifax when i needed a drive.All the Young`s i always,thought a lot off.Tom MacCarthy

  • 01/26/2024

    Our arms go around Nancy and her family in hearing the sad news. Carman will live on through our memories: our toes will be tapping to his music, our conversations about life in general will be cherished, his love of hockey with his boisterous voice will bring fun but most importantly his display of pride for his family. Hugs to all.

  • 01/25/2024

    We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Carmen. He was an absolute gem of a human. Carmen was a master entertainer and he gladly entertained the parents on hockey road trips by playing the harmonica so we could sing. We will always remember the classic line by Carmen when in the rink at Duncan's hockey games of "up the middle Dunc." I somehow know that Earl Walsh, Mom and Dad (George and Nora Findlay) were waiting for him at the gate of Heaven to welcome him home. Rest in Peace. Sandi Findlay and Bruce Thompson

  • 01/25/2024

    My loved father-in-law. I will miss you so very much... birthdays will never be the same without you playing the harmonica... visiting Halifax without your historical tour will be strange...the stories, the singing ... everything will be forever missed by me.

Add a Candle

Click a candle below to add a candle to your message.

Loading...