Ryter, Leslie (Les) Arnold – age 94 of Antigonish and formerly of Halfway Cove, Guysborough Co., passed away peacefully in the R K MacDonald Nursing Home Antigonish on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Born in 1931 at Halfway Cove, he was the son of the late Henry Raymond and Carrie Ella (Dort) Ryter. Les worked various jobs in Halfway Cove and New Glasgow before moving to Halifax in 1956. He married his wife, Mary, and together settled in Dartmouth to raise their 5 children. He worked at Halifax Regional Vocational School for 25 years until his retirement in 1982. He then worked for Dept of Lands and Forest in Lundy for a number of years. He also owned his own trucking company for many years. Following his retirement, Les moved his family back to the homestead in Halfway Cove, became involved with St. James Anglican Church and the local garden club. He also belonged to the Henry Sinclair Society. Les was an avid gardener, and enjoyed fishing, reading, and playing cards. He was a great storyteller and loved to share memories of his childhood growing up in the community that was close to his heart. 

Les is survived by his daughter Debbie, Miramichi; sons Brian, Dartmouth; William (Cecil), Summerville Centre; Kevin, Dartmouth; Dale (Alanna), Lower Sackville. Stepchildren Alice (Jim), Ajax; and James, Dartmouth. Grandchildren Ashley, Justin, Jordan (Meredith), Aidan, Sara, Lauren. Step grandchildren Stephanie (Jeff); Stacey (Jeremy); great granddaughter Darian, and niece Sandra. Sister-in-law Betty Peddle (Leo) and brother-in-law Donnie DeRabbie (Lori). Besides Dad's parents, he was predeceased by his wife Mary, sister Jean, brother-in-law Charlie Worth, niece Betty, brothers-in-law Billy DeRabbie (Florence) and John DeRabbie (Hazel); sister-in-law Sinnie Corkum.

The family would like to thank Dr. Galivan and the staff of the R K MacDonald Nursing Home for their compassion, kindness, and care shown to Dad during his time in the nursing home. A special thank you to Kaye MacPherson for many years of kindness and friendship to Dad (and Mom). Your dedication to our family is truly appreciated.

“When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too long and not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we all shared,

Miss me but let me go.”

There will be no visitation by request. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct 22 from St. James Anglican Church, Halfway Cove, Guys Co. with Rev Leif Vaage, officiating. Burial to follow in St. James Cemetery. A reception will follow the burial in Queensport Fire Hall. Memorial donations in Les’ memory may be made to Antigonish Community Food Bank. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com.