It is with great sadness that we announce that Peter "Alvin" Sinclair from Abercrombie passed away peacefully on May 6, 2024 at the age of 92, at the Shiretown Nursing Home surrounded by family.
Alvin was born in Isaacs Harbour, Antigonish, to the late William and Lucy (Vinton) Sinclair.
Alvin was a teacher for 35 years. He finished his career as the Principal at the New Glasgow High School. He believed that he could have a positive influence on every student. When Alvin retired, he spent his winters in Florida enjoying rounds of golf and reluctantly going shopping with his wife, Reta.
Alvin was a member of the Western Star Masonic Lodge 50 and was involved in many community, church and school groups. Two of his last accomplishments were being inducted into the Pictou County Hall of Fame and, along with Courtney Malcolm, changing the name of the New Glasgow Stadium to the John Brother MacDonald Stadium. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, New Glasgow; he coached numerous teams at NGHS; refereed hockey; served on the N.S. Golf Association; was a member of the RCGA, a past president of the Abercrombie Country Club, a town councillor and a proud member of the Liberal Party. Alvin was so involved with his community that many pages could be filled with his accomplishments, volunteer activity and groups of which he was a member.
No one would ever question that Alvin’s favorite activity was playing a round of golf with his friends. He was an avid golfer with many wins and achievements in his career. He had an under 10 handicap and would never say no to a round.
Alvin always was interested in politics because he believed that he could make a difference. This was whether it was in the limelight or behind the scenes supporting the next candidate. He attended many conventions and made many influential friends in his time.
When Alvin wasn’t on the golf course, you could find him puttering around the yard in his flower and vegetable gardens. He was always sure the neighbours had enough fresh vegetables from the garden. He was always planting some kind of plants along the driveway to make it look welcoming when you drove in the driveway. Alvin was always up for a good conversation anywhere he went. It was often difficult to go to the mall, Sobeys or anywhere without him stopping to talk with someone.
Alvin’s most important role was not a school administrator, shaping young adults’ minds, but being a Dad and Grumpie. He took great pride in being a Father and Grandfather. He encouraged each one to be the best of themselves and succeed. He promoted independence, good grades and was proud of each one’s accomplishments.
He is survived by his son, Barry, New Glasgow; his daughter, Bridget (Brad) Drane, Upper Tantallon; his sister, Fanny, Abercrombie; and daughter-in-law, Ellen, Park Falls. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Nick, Andrew, Carla, Sara, Mitchell and Heidi and 5 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, his rock and always supporter, Reta; son, David; sisters: Elizabeth and Edith; and brothers: William, George and Marshall. He was also predeceased by sisters in-law and brothers-in-law.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Monday, May 27th from 6-9 pm at R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Funeral will be held Tuesday, May 28th at 11 am First Presbyterian Church, New Glasgow, Rev. Andrew MacDonald officiating. Burial at the Abercrombie Cemetery and reception to follow at the Abercrombie Community Centre. Donations in Alvin’s memory can be made to the Abercrombie Cemetery or charity of choice. Western Star Masonic Lodge will meet at the funeral home at 5:15pm Monday to conduct their service.