Obituary of Roger Paul Nason

With profound sadness, the family of Roger Paul Nason announces his passing on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital, Fredericton, NB. Born August 19, 1949 at the Grand Manan Hospital, Roger was the second son of the late Ronald Nason and the late Molly Nason Barrett.

He is survived by his wife Nancy Brown Nason of 54 years, and two sons of whom he was very proud, Todd Nason (Debbie MacGillivray) of Bedford, NS and Peter Nason (Helene Caplice) of Fredericton, NB. Roger was a cherished Husband, Dad, (Rodster) and Father-in-Law. He was Grandad to five treasured grandchildren - Josh, Ryan, Will, Cameron and Cate, all of whom he loved dearly and who brought him great joy. Also one brother, Rev. Dale (Cheryl) Nason, one uncle Philip (Beverley) Nason, one aunt Myrna (Ronnie) Butler, several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by Nancy’s family and many dear friends. And of course, the Grandpets held a special place in his heart.

In addition to his parents, Roger was predeceased by his brother Kerry Nason earlier this year, and his step-father Charles Barrett.

Roger worked in both the public and private sectors over his employment years, but his true love was the history of New Brunswick, a subject introduced to him by his mentor and friend Dr. William Spray at St. Thomas University, and continued at UNB where he completed his Degree of Master of Arts in History with Honours.

Over the last several years, he researched and wrote of many topics of New Brunswick from long ago. These included aspects of black and native history, First World War vets of his homelands of Grand Manan and Fredericton Junction, property and family genealogies and settlement of nearby areas ie. Keswick and St. Andrews. Beginning at a young age, our boys, their friends and anyone at the table were treated to “a History lesson with every meal”. And so it continued to include the Grandchildren, who always showed interest in the topics presented.

Roger’s eagerness to help friends and colleagues with historical research was matched by the many friends he had at the Provincial Archives who helped him from a distance, by phone or email, when he could no longer go there in person. Their assistance was invaluable to his continued research as was their patience and friendship.

The family is ever grateful to Dr. Snell, Nurse Linda and staff at the Oromocto Public Hospital who treated him initially and facilitated his admission to the DECRH emergency department. We are also grateful to the many people at the Chalmers Hospital Emergency and 3 East who treated and cared for Roger over the past two weeks. Drs. Marr, Kolb, Figir and Tingley all provided care and compassion throughout his stay there. The staff of 3 East were unmatched in their care and attention to Roger and his family, and we appreciate all their kindness.

At Roger’s request, there will be no visitation or service at this time. There will be a Celebration of his Life event, held at the Crowne Plaza, 659 Queen St, Fredericton, NB on Saturday, September 28th from 3 - 6 pm

For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the ALS Foundation to aid and honor those like our dear family friend, Steven Gallagher, whose ALS challenges continue, or to a charity of one’s choice.

Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com