Walter Edwin Isenor

Walter Edwin Isenor, 80, passed away quietly on April 12th, 2024, surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.  Born in North Sydney, he was the son of the late Thomas Edwin "Eddie" and Jean (Ramey) Isenor.

After growing up in Middleton and graduating from MRHS, Walter attended Dalhousie University and the Nova Scotia Technical College where he graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering.  After graduation, he travelled Seattle to work for the Boeing Aircraft Company where his love affair with flying took shape. 

In 1967, Walter moved back to Halifax to work with Maritime Tel and Tel and obtained his Master of Business Administration from Dalhousie.

Walter married Lana, a native of Middleton, in 1969 and shortly after, they moved to Prince Edward Island.  Their son Jeff was born on the Island.  While there, Walter switched careers and starting teaching at the University of Prince Edward Island, where he became the Head of the Business Department for the last three years of his nine at the University. 

While living on the Island, he earned his pilot’s license and purchased his first single-engine plane with a close friend.  After a few years, he upgraded to a share of a multi-engine Seneca plane.  In addition, he joined the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) and spent time as a member of the COPA Board of Directors.

In 1980, the family moved back to Nova Scotia, where Walter took a position at Acadia University, teaching in the Business School.  While at Acadia he held many different positions including six years as the Dean/Director of the Business School, member of the University Board of Governors and most importantly, teaching. 

In 1988, the family was fortunate to spend a year in Bermuda where he and Lana taught at Bermuda College.

He was very active on campus where he attended many sporting events, musical performances, a regular at noon hour basketball, and helping at the Memorial Chapel.  After retirement, he volunteered at the KC Irving Centre.

His love of flying continued in Nova Scotia as an avid member of the Greenwood Flying Club and then later at Waterville Airport.  He was a Director of the Annapolis Valley Flying Association and a Board member of the Waterville Airport.

Walter started playing golf when he was in university and played well into his 70’s.  He was a member of many clubs including, Ashburn, Belvedere and Ken-Wo.  He enjoyed playing with anyone, whether it was his regular weekly games with friends, or playing with family.  In recent years he loved playing with Lana, Jeff, Christine and his grandchildren.

Along with his parents, Walter is predeceased by his sister Janet (Doug) Lyghtle, brother in-law Doug Lyghtle and nephew Jason Brinton. 

Walter is survived by his wife of 54+ years, Lana (Brinton) and their loving dog Abby.  Lana has been by his side through the years as he battled this terrible disease.  Her selfless efforts are a testament to their love.

Walter was so proud of his family and is survived by son Jeff, daughter in-law Christine and grandchildren Katelyn and William.  He loved spending time with his family, be it in and around the pool at home; on the golf course; on their boat on the South Shore; cheering for his grandkids at their various sporting, school and community activities; or just playing a game in the evening.

In addition, Walter is survived by his brother in-law Wayne (Peggy) Brinton; nieces: Sherry (Grant) Bishop, Kim (Danny) MacMillan and Krista (Chris) Mills; nephews: Terry (Elaine) Lyghtle and Lee (Kate) Brinton; and all their children.  Walter was so lucky to have so many lifelong friends, from Middleton, PEI, Acadia, neighbourhood, flying, golf, just to name a few.

Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all the staff of Blomidon Court, Greenwich, for their care and kindness during Walt’s stay with them.  You treated Walt with such dignity and love, as well as support and care to Lana, we will never forget it.  A special thank you to Drs Gunn, Targett and Bustin; your professionalism and respect for Walter have meant a great deal to the family throughout his difficult journey.  In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer Society of Canada or a charity of your choice in memory of Walter would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements have been entrusted to White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Kentville, NS. Please join us to remember Walter at a memorial visitation on Saturday, April 27th, from 2-4pm at the White Family Funeral Home in Kentville. There will be a private family service at a later date.

When you hear a plane, look to the sky … Walter did!