Obituary of Gary Robert Rankin
Gary Robert Rankin, age 71, Stellarton, NS, passed away suddenly but peacefully in his home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Born in Westville, Gary was the son of the late Robert and Kathleen (Fitzgerald) Rankin.
Gary practiced law for over 40 years. He graduated from Saint Francis Xavier University (BBA 1976) and Dalhousie Law School (LLB 1979), and began his career in private practice before moving into municipal government, where he served as Chief Administrative Officer and Solicitor for the towns of Westville and New Glasgow. For the past 19 years, he worked at the Health Association of Nova Scotia, representing many beloved clients across the province in all aspects of labour law. In 2024, Gary was appointed as an adjudicator for the Nova Scotia Small Claims Court, a role he very much enjoyed.
Gary was a kind man who believed in helping others and making his community a better place, whether by donating his time and money to various charities, providing advice and a helping hand, or simply stopping to ask someone about their day. An active member of the Holy Name Church in Westville, he was a regular mass lector there and at St. John the Baptist Church in New Glasgow, and was involved in several church committees. He served as a Board Member for Family Service Nova Scotia and the National Council of the Martha Associates. He was also a longtime member of the Pictou County Chapter of the Martha Associates, where he previously served as Committee Chair. In recognition of his contributions to his community and province, Gary received the Queen's Jubilee Medal.
A beloved father, colleague, neighbour, and friend to so many, Gary had a calming presence that instantly put people at ease, a quick wit, and an amazing sense of humour. Gary was a deep thinker with a variety of interests. He was an avid reader, gardener, and fan of the Chicago Blackhawks. His life was forever changed in 2022 when he adopted his fur baby and business associate, Yoda, from the Pictou County SPCA. Yoda was a tremendous source of joy to Gary and accompanied him wherever he would go.
Gary’s family was his greatest treasure. He will be greatly missed by his daughter, Kathleen (Corey); son, Patrick; and extended family, colleagues, and friends.
At Gary’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. A graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to the Holy Name Church of Westville, North Nova SPCA, or Parkinson’s Society of Canada.