Obituary of Keith Stanton Manchester

Keith passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by love, predeceased by his parents, Roger Coe Manchester and Helen Dorothy Manchester, and his beloved wife, Carol Elizabeth Manchester. Surviving relations include sisters, Carol Kushmider (Norman), and Janet Connors (Kevin); children, Erik Roger Manchester, Kristen Manchester Ganzhorn (Dan S.), Andrea Lynn Manchester (Gerry S.) and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews.

From a vegetable farm in Bristol, Connecticut, he would join the US Navy (1953-1957), then attend the University of Connecticut (BSc.) after the Korean War, completing his studies at Dalhousie University (MSc.) in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In 1964, Keith began a long career with the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, during the heyday of ocean exploration where he took pride in the accomplishments of his team. Highlights of his career were his time at sea doing survey work of the vast ocean floor, and circumnavigation of the Americas on the CCGS Hudson (1970). Becoming a Canadian citizen in 1970, he built the family home in Fall River, Nova Scotia, where he would reside 1972 through 2021, when he joined Erik in Prince Edward Island.

Keith was passionate about many topics including ocean science, nature, travelling (1991 - standing at the North Pole), woodworking and crafting, weather-watching, journaling, and genealogy. The delightful garden that he shared in tending with Carol was the site of many a merry gathering.

Most of all, Keith was a terrific family member, neighbour and friend - he was measured and patient, curious about life and carefully optimistic about the future. He was a founding member of the BIO Oceans Association, a member of the Shubenacadie Canal Commission, member of the Fall River Garden Club and enthusiastic community member. It was important to him to be connected to the world around him - most of all to his family and loved ones around the globe.

Keith will be greatly missed and often celebrated. In lieu of flowers, please make an offering to a charitable organization, help your neighbour, or plant a tree and watch it grow.