WINTERS, Philip “Phil” James

“It’s not the years of your life that count. It’s the life in your years,” and such was Philip “Phil” James Winters' life, one filled with adventure and special times with family and friends.

However, without warning on Thursday, November 25, 2021, at his home in Rose Bay and wife Vivian by his side, Phil, 72, hoisted his spiritual sails for his final journey. In faith, we trust his safe harbour with God.

Born in Bridgewater, Phil was the son of the late Capt. Donald and Rosabelle (Lohnes) Winters.

Phil loved the water and was happiest when sailing. He strove for perfection in every role on board whether as crew member of Ocean Commotion or captain of Moonfleet III. The brightwork and teak wood were his expertise. He was passionate about his cooking and asserted there was “no room for two cooks in the kitchen.” He mastered the “Winters' turkey dressing recipe” which was the highlight around the family table at holidays. Phil was an avid sports fan and outdoorsman. He enjoyed attending professional sporting events with family and friends and highlights included meeting his golfing idol, Jack Nicklaus, and being an honorary media member at a Blue Jays home opener. A great storyteller, Phil recalled tales of his many hunting trips and shark excursions, especially his successful moose hunt in Cape Breton. In later years, he took pleasure in tending his vegetable and flower gardens, perfecting his smoked salmon, and spinning a yarn over morning coffee with the boys at the Riverport Liars Club. He was proud to call Riverport his home. Phil cherished every moment with family and passed down traditions and stories at every chance.

Phil is survived by his wife Vivian Moores; son Scott (Amber) Winters of Mississauga, ON; daughter Nicole (Jason) Wiles of Madison, CT; grandchildren Trent, Maeve, and Grant; “wonderful” sister Jane (Greg) Corkum, Hubley; cousin Terry “the brother he never had” (Carolyn) Lohnes, Garden Lots; Heather Naugler-Winters, the mother of his children; niece Kelly MacMillan and nephew Casey Corkum. When Phil married Vivian, 8 years ago, he was blessed to love two more sons Drew (Danielle) Moores, Mahone Bay, (since Phil's passing, precious newborn grand-daughter, Eloise) and Jon-Daniel (Nichole Doucette) Moores, Halifax.

A service to celebrate Phil’s life will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 2 p.m. at the Trinity United Church in Rose Bay, located at 3543 Highway 332. Reception to follow in the Church hall. All are welcome to attend and masks will be required.

Those desiring to make gifts in Phil’s memory may send donations to the Youth Sailing Program at the LaHave River Yacht Club (Phil Winters' Bursary), the Canadian Diabetes Association, or to a charity of your choice, through the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, Lunenburg. www.sweenyfuneralhome.ca