Robert W. Fader

Robert Watson Fader was born in New Grafton 91 years ago, and died peacefully in South Shore Regional Hospital on July 6, 2026, with family by his side.

As a young boy, Robert was a major support for his mum, taking on many responsibilities because his dad was away for work. Robert’s first full time job was working at the co-op stores in Kempt and Caledonia. Here he learned to tie strings around the bottom of his pant legs to prevent mice from running up inside them while unloading feed. In 1959 Robert moved to Liverpool, where he started a job at the post office (and worked there for 30 years), met and married his wife Sally, and raised a family.

Though Robert enjoyed the simple things in life, throughout the years he had a very social life with Sally, their family, and friends. There were many parties & gatherings, with good food, drinks, laughter, and sometimes even some live fiddle music (accompanied by Robert’s spoon playing) or homemade ice cream. He and Sally together, bowled (even on their honeymoon), played badminton, tennis, & games of cards, watched baseball & curling, and attended fire hall dances. They did some traveling locally, spending weekends away for hockey tournaments with Craig, attending Apple Blossom weekends with Linda & Terry, visiting Murray & Myrna in Moncton, and going to watch curling tournaments. Trips further took them to western Canada and to the US to visit or to sight-see. Summer camping with the family at Keji (often along with Valerie, Roger, and family), bluegrass festivals, and fishing excursions to Stoney Brook with Roger, and to Quebec with Jim and Todd, were favorites.

Robert was proud to become a grandparent, and Mitchell was his pride and joy. He spent many hours watching his baseball and hockey games, taking him fishing at Keji, spending time together back at his camp, and was proud of the man he has become.

He enjoyed times when Kim came home to visit, and in more recent years, spent many hours sitting at the kitchen table playing Phase Ten, SkipBo and Yahtzee. He was always up for a weekly road trip with Heather or Craig, which sometimes led to Grafton for visits with Rhonda or a Jays game and bbq with Shane. With Heather and Craig, he also spent countless hours fishing at Eel Weir.

Robert’s second home was his camp in Albany New, Bucket Hill Acres. He spent many days and nights there with Craig, Lori & Granville, days working there with Terry & Kenny, and other times with Heather, Linda and Megan. As well, he valued time there on his own, picking up rocks & gathering gravel to fill in holes in the road, relaxing, and enjoying the quiet of nature. During his time at camp he made many friends, young and old, who became his camp family, sharing stories, laughter, and the odd bit of dark rum. Many referred to him as Uncle Robert.

If you asked everyone who knew Robert to describe him, you'd hear some of the same words… kind, intelligent, loyal, curious, witty, generous, honest, reliable, selfless, and fun-loving. He was a friend to everyone and nobody's fool. He loved his family, treasured his friends, delighted in the outdoors and nature, and had a rare ability to connect with people from every walk of life. He always made the most of the opportunities life presented, to learn, understand or share something, or just enjoy every minute of laughter and companionship that came along. He missed nothing and forgot less. The only thing he liked better than telling a good story was hearing one, and he always had time to listen. There was no cranky child who wasn't soothed by his voice, no day that wasn't a good day for hunting, fishing, visiting, a game of cards or a walk in the woods, and no bucket of gravel he couldn't find just the right home for. When we think of those words that describe you, Robert, none fit better than fondly remembered, dearly missed, and deeply loved. Until we meet again, may your campfire burn bright, your glass always be full, and your toe tap to fiddle music shared with the family and friends who went before.

Robert is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sally (Wigglesworth), his daughters Kim Fader & Heather Fader (Johnny Ingram), his son Craig Fader, and his grandson Mitchell Ingram. He is also survived by his sister Linda Pearson (Terry).

He was predeceased by his parents Daisy (Forrest) & Steward Fader and his brother Kenneth Fader.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of the South Shore Regional hospital for both their excellent care of Robert and their kindness to the family.

The family is especially grateful to Sandra Langille, Robert’s personal caregiver for over the past year. Sandra's compassion, and genuine care for Robert, made a difficult time easier and brighter. But beyond helping Robert with his personal care needs, Sandra became a friend, sharing conversations, laughter, and always bringing a smile to Dad’s face.

A visitation will be held at Chandler’s Funeral Home on Monday, July 13, from 10-11 am, followed by a service at 11am. The service will be live streamed. At 1 pm there will be a short committal at Maplewood Cemetery in Maitland Bridge, reception to follow at Maitland Community Hall. All are welcome. Online condolences may be made to www.chandlersfuneral.com

Donations in Robert’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.