E. Nelson Rudderham

It saddens us to announce the passing of our beloved father, E. Nelson Rudderham, at Harbourstone Enhanced Care on Wednesday, August 5, 2020. Nelson was proud to say that he was from Whitney Pier, the place he was born and raised. He was born on December 9, 1931, the son of the late J. Willard and Alexandra Rudderham. He worked in the family business from the time he was a young boy, as did his other siblings. They all learned the plumbing, heating and mechanical contracting business. Nelson did take some time from the family business to serve his country in the Canadian Armed Forces. He spent most of his military career stationed in Germany and was able to spend some time travelling Europe. After the sudden death of his father, J.W., Nelson with his sister, Selma and brother Ross, successfully operated and expanded the family business for decades. It was a common sight in Cape Breton to see the blue and gold J.W. Rudderham trucks. As he began to semi-retire, Nelson became involved in real estate. His involvement included service with the Nova Scotia Real Estate Association Board. For many years, he enjoyed listing, selling and appraising homes in the area. Nelson was a lifetime member of Lingan Golf Club where he served as President. It was one of his favorite pass times. He would often say, “a round of golf can make your day”. Both he and his wife Dorothy (Dot), became avid golfers and were very active at the Lingan Golf Club together. Both Nelson and Dot enjoyed many years at the Sydney Curling Club as avid curlers as well. After losing his wife, Dot, on October 3, 2016, Nelson was never quite the same. He missed her terribly and would ask for her often. Although he missed his dear Dot, Nelson enjoyed the family tradition of Sunday dinners every week with all of his family. He was even able to enjoy three new grandchildren during that time. Nelson is survived by his children Gail (Martin), Kim (Arno), Lynn (Jared), Nelson, Lori (Arthur) and Dwight (Maria), his grandchildren Adam, Shaun, Jeffrey, Jocelyn (Chad), Jillian (Victor), Samantha (Cody) and Nessa as well as great grandchildren Gianna, Seth and Avery. Nelson was raised in a large family of eight children and is survived by his sisters Selma and Cordella and brother Wilson. He was predeceased by his brothers Lewis, Emerson, Frank and Ross. We would like to thank the staff at Harbourstone Enhanced Care for the care they provided to Nelson, especially during this difficult time of COVID. We would also like to mention the Enhanced Care wing of the Glace Bay General Hospital where Nelson spent several months that he enjoyed immensely. The staff were very good to him during that time. Due to COVID restrictions, a private service for family was held at TW Curry Parkview Chapel. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com. If desired, donations in Nelson’s memory may be made to the Canadian Diabetic Association.