John Leonard Olfaf Skaling

John Leonard Olaf Skaling

December 8, 1943 - July 15, 2026 

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, Papa, family member and friend, John Leonard Olaf Skaling, who passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026 at the age of 82, at Valley Regional Hospital, in Kentville, Nova Scotia.

John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ann; his children, Jillian (Russell) St. Croix; Jeff (Julie) Arlington; Jan, Elmsdale; Julie Ann, Arlington; his grandchildren, Mitchell (Morgan), Chelsea, Broderic, Rory, Gabriel (Sarah), Breanna, Katelyn (Dylan), Sarah, Kylar (Hannah), Jaxson; his great grandchildren Jace, Bryce, Kinnon, Avianna; brothers Ted (Myrna) and Allen (Audrey), and several nieces and one nephew. 

He was predeceased by his parents, George and Gunvor (Helen) Skaling, brother Don, sister Shirley, brother in law, Daryl, sister in law, Helen and nephew Randy. 

He was the devoted husband of Ann, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter and unwavering commitment. In recent years, he cared for her with extraordinary tenderness as she lived with dementia, showing everyone around him what unconditional love, patience and devotion truly look like. 

John was a proud and loving father to his children and an incredible Papa to his ten grandchildren, each of whom held a treasured place in his heart. 

Dad dedicated more than 30 years of his career to public service as a Primary Products Inspector with Agriculture Canada and later, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. His commitment to serving others didn’t end when the workday was over. He volunteered for many years with Scouts Canada, helping to guide and encourage young people, and was an active member of Citizens on Patrol. Having called Centreville home for 46 years, he was deeply invested in his community, always looking out for its well being and especially the safety of children. Whether through quiet acts of service or giving his time to causes he believed in, he made Centreville a better place for everyone. 

Known for his quiet strength and gentle nature, he was the kind of man who never raised his voice and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether he was teaching life skills, coaching baseball teams, helping with homework, or simply offering his calm presence, he made those around him feel safe, supported and loved. 

His kindness, humility and generosity touched countless lives. He didn’t seek recognition or praise; he simply lived by example, showing that the greatest legacy a person can leave is the way they make others feel. 

Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort knowing he is now at peace. His love, wisdom and gentle spirit will continue to live on through the family he cherished so deeply.  

"Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near" 

Family and friends are invited to join us as we celebrate Dad’s life on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at White Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dad’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia or to a charity of your choice. 

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses and staff of Valley Regional Hospital for their compassionate care and kindness shown to Dad and to our family during his final days. Your support and compassion will never be forgotten.  

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. Online condolences and inquiries may be directed to www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com.