CARTHEW, Archibald Maynard "Haigh"

On April 11, 2023, two months shy of 90, a veritable gentleman slipped away. Haigh was charming, witty, intellectual, sporty, handsome, and adventurous. He was a man of integrity with principles of honesty, discipline, faith, and loyalty to family – both biological and chosen.

Haigh eschewed a predictable life in the UK to emigrate to Canada. Landing in Montreal, he made lifelong friends before moving to Toronto, where he met wife Barbara. Haigh worked for Bell Canada for 35 years, including three years in Saudi Arabia 1980-82. This seeded the family’s adventuring bug, with trips to Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Haigh took an early retirement in 1989, and returned to school (UofT), completing twinned degrees in history and geography.

The family moved to Yellowknife, NT, in 1993. Yellowknife marked a transition from work to community service, a tradition he continued until his passing.

The lure to permanent retirement led Haigh and Barbara to the south shore of Nova Scotia in 1999. They fell in love with the view overlooking Hirtle’s Beach and built their forever-home there. Haigh kept up his community service and became increasingly active in the Anglican Church, where he eventually served as a lay minister. Beach Hill, Haigh’s final roost, was exceptional for having so many friends in such a compact area. Between the walks, local engagements, company with neighbours, and family visits, life on the Hill was full and fulfilling. Haigh and Barbara enjoyed 23 years in this setting.

Haigh will also be remembered fondly for his bagpiping at local weddings, funerals, an array of community events, and annually at Remembrance Day ceremonies. For those more familiar, we will recall his wit, penchant for poetic recitation, in many a tongue, and his signature champagne cocktails! He was a constant volunteer, a spiritual seeker, a talented athlete, historian, and an energetic Scottish country dancer.

Haigh took great pride in his family and is survived by wife Barb, children Chris (Lisa), Kirsten (Bruno) and Ruaraidh (Katarina), grandchildren Leo, Norah, Alma, Fraser, Archie, Maeve, and Arlo. RIP Dad, may you find the heaven you had envisioned, and all that it entails.

Haigh cherished his time in Nova Scotia and the people he crossed paths with. If you would like to share memories or send condolences, please do so via Sweeny’s Funeral Home.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Haigh Carthew, of Kingsburg, will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at St. John’s Anglican Church, Lunenburg.