Obituary of Raymond Maurice Baines

Raymond Maurice Baines passed away peacefully at Loch Lomond Village, Saint John on July 13 2016. He was born in Saint John on August 3rd 1923, the son of Stephen and Josephine (Duguay) Baines. Following graduation from Saint John High School and Dalhousie University College of Pharmacy, and a period at Fullerton’s Drug store, he was Director of Pharmacy at Lancaster DVA Hospital (later the West Saint John Community), for over 30 years. During much of this period he also worked two nights a week at Reddings Pharmacy. He continued at Saint John Regional Hospital, when the West Saint John hospital closed. Following retirement in 1988, he found much pleasure helping patients as a part-time pharmacist at Lawton’s Drug Store. Over the years he and his wife Edith (Ede) enjoyed many pharmaceutical conventions across Canada. He volunteered with the Carleton and York Regiment during WW2 serving as a stretcher bearer, seeing action in Italy, before participating in the Liberation of Holland, an experience that made a lasting imprint. He recalled time in Holland with a mixture of sadness and pride, and carried an enduring affection for the Dutch people. He faithfully attended Carleton and York reunions and the yearly Remembrance Day Service, marching with fellow veterans until recent ill health. An active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 69, he participated in many Legion funeral tribute services for veterans. A lifelong member of the United Church of Canada, he attended Centenary Queen Square church for many years serving as an elder. In later years he joined St. Marks United Church helping with the men’s "work crew" while he was able. Until recently he enjoyed the fellowship of the Lancaster Golden Seniors Club. Raymond was a skilled carpenter and upholsterer and often came to aid of family with needle or sewing machine. He derived satisfaction designing and completing major home renovations, and various other projects where his ingenuity frequently amazed his family. He enjoyed many happy summers at his family cottage in Dipper Harbour, various countryside excursions and picnics, and hunting and fishing trips. For many years he and Ede enjoyed recreational skating at the Lancaster Centennial Arena. He found pleasure in music especially classical, attending many local concerts over the years, and instilling in his family an appreciation of good music. His family will greatly miss his loving guidance. His friendly cheerful manner, easy going nature, gentle humour and innate kindness will be fondly remembered by both family and friends. Raymond was predeceased by his wife of 66 years, Edith (Thompson) in 2015, and brothers Harold (Grace) of Montreal, and Robert (late Elizabeth) of Victoria, and by sisters Elsie (late James) Humphrey and Constance and Florence Baines. Also predeceased by brothers-in-law Willard (Ester, Mrs Clarence Ferguson), Christy (late Ethel), and Harley (late Dorothy) Thompson. He is survived by son Neil of Saint John, and daughter Lita (David) Waldron of Derby, England. Also survived by brothers-in-law Eric (Beverly) Thompson, Thorvald (late Willena) Brodersen and sister-in-law Mary (Harold) Kane, and by one niece and several nephews. The family is grateful for the capable and compassionate care provided to Raymond by the staff of Loch Lomond Village, and by Drs. Lisa Yang, Chris O'Brien, and Holly Campbell. Raymond's short stay at Loch Lomond Village was brightened by many faithful visitors which the family appreciated. In memory of Raymond, remembrances may be made to the Loch Lomond Villa Foundation, or a charity of donor’s choice. Resting at Brenan’s Bay View Funeral Home, 1461 Manawagonish Road, Saint John (634-7425) from where a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at 2:30 with visitation on Sunday, July 17, 2016 from 2:00 to 4:30 and Monday, July 18, 2016 from 7:00 to 9:00.