YOUNG (Ernst), Grace Alevia

It is with sadness that we mark the passing of Grace Alevia Young (Ernst), 92, of Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, on Thursday, January 13, 2022, at Ridgewood Assisted Living, Bridgewater.

Grace was born in 1929 in Indian Point, NS to Maurice Ernst and Floral (Dorey).

She started her working career with the Provincial Government as a clerk in the filing room for five years and later worked for the Bank of Nova Scotia in Hamilton and Halifax.

On August 11, 1951 Grace married Albert Young, of Indian Point, and gave birth to four sons, David, Parkdale; Peter (Clare Blyth), Paul both of Blockhouse, and Michael (Dan Beaudoin), Montreal. They were married for 57 years, until Albert’s death in 2008.

She loved travelling with Albert and made friends easily on her journeys.

Over the years, she lived in Halifax, Hamilton ON, and Spryfield, NS, before settling in Blockhouse, a community that she loved.

Grace was profoundly loved by her family and community. Her compassion to family, those in need, shut-ins, and even strangers, was exemplary. Everyone who showed up at her door was greeted with warmth and a smile. Said her niece, Linda, "Her smile would light up any room and her hugs would warm you like a winter wood fire.”

She was unwavering in her duty as a wife, mother and daughter, and was steadfast in her resolve to help others. If a family member had to go into hospital, Grace would immediately pack her own bag and move into the room with them; never leaving their side, saying simply “I’m not leaving until they do”.

As a key member of the Blockhouse Ladies Auxiliary for many years, Grace was constantly involved with the firehall’s dinners, dances, and receptions. Attending the annual Fire Chief conventions with Albert, who had been a Blockhouse Fire Chief for many years, was always a highlight for Grace, and most meaningful for her as it meant travel and meeting old friends. Grace was also an active participant with St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mahone Bay, serving on both the Finance Committee and the ELW, and a valiant member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 23, Lunenburg.

An avid knitter, Grace was constantly producing blankets and clothing for care packages for her church to distribute to those in need.

Mom personified, throughout her entire life, her most deserving and worthy given name.

She is survived by her four sons, sister, Mary Hubley (Charlie Teal) of Broad Cove, nieces, Debbie (David) Burgess and Linda (Shawn) Benvie, and nephew, Danny Hubley. Also survived by Al’s sister, Shirley Goos of Victoria, BC and her children Wayne and Karen, Margie MacNeil of Bridgewater, as well as countless friends.

We would like to express our thanks to Andrea Whalen, Kat, Kathryn, and the staff at Ridgewood Assisted Living facility for their compassionate care of Grace during her final years.

Bookkeeper, volunteer, long-time blood donor, cat lover, exceptional baker (20 lbs of flour and a washtub every week just for the bread) - this wonderful woman will be missed.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, Lunenburg. Graveside service to celebrate Grace’s life was held on Friday, January 21, 2022, at Garden of Rest Cemetery, Pastor Brooklynn Lane, officiated.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Garden of Rest Cemetery, Blockhouse or Indian Point Cemetery. www.sweenyfuneralhome.ca