Obituary of Keith Earl Clowater

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Earl Clowater of New Bandon, NB, who passed away peacefully on April 1, 2023 with his boys at his side. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, volunteer, and community member who touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity and immeasurable support.  

Born July 10, 1952, in New Bandon, NB to Mildred (Millie) O’Donnell and Earle Clowater of New Bandon, NB. Keith lived a full and fulfilling life, dedicating many hours to his family and community.

As a father, Keith was a constant source of support to his boys, always putting their needs ahead of his own. He beamed with pride anytime he got the opportunity to talk about his boys and his grandchildren. Keith is survived by his two sons, David (Lacey) of Taymouth, NB and Neil (Stacey) of Blissfield, NB. In addition to his boys, Keith is survived by his brother Sterling Clowater (Carol) of McNamee, NB, sister-in-law Evelyn Clowater of Penniac, NB, grandchildren, Hudson, Leighton, Beckett and Quinn Clowater, and several nieces and nephews.

His grandchildren were a bright spot in Keith’s life. He loved to boast about their many accomplishments; Hudson’s racing, Leighton’s dance, Beckett’s hockey and Quinn’s enthusiastic personality.  He made sure he was present at every race, dance recital and hockey game.

Keith was predeceased by his father Earle in June 1966, his mother Millie in February 1986 and his brother Edison in November 2019.

Keith had been employed with his family’s utility business, E&E Powerline, for the past twenty years. He thoroughly enjoyed his time in the line trade, travelling to many parts of Canada and the US. Keith was extremely proud that both of his boys followed in his footsteps, becoming licensed powerline technicians themselves. Keith also worked in the forestry industry for many years, holding a variety of job titles. His love of heavy equipment, machinery and trucks was lifelong.

His generosity extended far beyond his family, and we will remember him as a devoted community member and volunteer. He was an original council member of the Rural Community of Upper Miramichi since its incorporation in March 2008, a dedicated Central New Brunswick Woodmen’s Museum volunteer for 45 years, and held positions on the Doaktown Curling Club Board, Old Mill Pond Golf Club, St. Thomas United Church in Doaktown, the McNamee Rec Centre and the Miramichi Board of Trade.

If there was an event happening in the community, you could guarantee that you would see Keith there. If he was not volunteering in some capacity, he was certainly socializing. He could be counted on to do any job, whether it be washing dishes, serving breakfast, selling tickets, refereeing, coaching, or mashing potatoes. He wore many hats and he did them all well and definitely with a smile and chuckle.

Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home’s Miramichi Valley Chapel 7681 Route 8, New Bandon, NB on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 from 4-7pm. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 from Miramichi Valley Chapel at 2 pm with The Reverend Brian Curtis officiating. Honorary Pallbearers are Donald Clowater, Jeremy Clowater, Ricky Clowater, Brian Clowater, Bradley Clowater, Harold Fairley and Blayne Morrissey.

As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made to one of the many volunteer organizations Keith supported. The Central New Brunswick Woodmen’s Museum, Old Mill Pond Golf Club, The Doaktown Curling Club or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.