With heavy hearts, we share the sudden passing of Arthur Alexander "Alex" Nickerson, age 81 of Canso, who passed away in hospital on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Born in Halifax, Alex was the son of the late June Nickerson (Haskins). He worked for 10 years in the Dietary Department at the V.G. Hospital before returning home to Canso, where he worked at the fish plant as a marine watchman and later with the sanitation department until retiring at 62. He believed in hard work, showing up everyday and doing his job well. Alex enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He could spend hours researching shipwrecks online or watching fishing and hunting videos, anything that connected him to the outdoors and the sea.

Above all, Alex was devoted to his family. He shared 54 loving years of marriage with Mary and was a proud father to his two sons and to his niece, whom he loved as a daughter. Becoming "Papa" to his eight grandchildren was his greatest joy. He was their storyteller, gentle teacher and the one whose joyful giggle could light up any room, always ready with a lesson or a laugh.

Alex is survived by his loving wife, Mary of Canso; sons, John (Nicole), Bible Hill; Patrick (Lisa), Lower Sackville; and Samantha (Jeff), Moncton, NB; his beloved grandchildren, Kandace, Dallas, Cheyenne, Memphis, Jersey, Brooklyn, Jagger and Ryker; his brother, Robert (Sharon), Canso; sister-in-law, Estella Ryan (Richard), Stellarton; brothers-in-law, Patrick Ryan (Kay), Port Williams; Paul Ryan (Kathy), Lawrencetown; Charles Ryan (Jackie), Hazel Hill; many nieces and nephews whom he cherished. He was predeceased by his mother, June; stepfather, George; his in-laws, John and Florence Ryan; two grandsons, Daytona and Dakota Nickerson.

Alex will be remembered for his steady presence, his quiet strength, his stories and the love he gave so freely to his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a space in our hearts that can never be filled.

Cremation has taken place. In keeping with Alex's wishes, there will be no visitation and burial will be at a later date.

The family thanks Dr. Milburn, Pamela Morrow and the staff of Eastern Memorial Hospital for their kindness and wonderful care. Donations in Alex's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com