Obituary of Maurice Allen Harquail

Dr. Maurice “Moe” Allen Harquail, February 25, 1930 – August 13, 2022.  Born in Dalhousie, New Brunswick, to David and Corinne (Normandeau) Harquail.  He attended Saint Francis Xavier University at age 16 and graduated with a BSc (Summa Cum Laude) in 1950.  During his time there he played weekly as a saxophonist in the University Jazz Band.  He went on to graduate from Dalhousie Dental School (DDS) in 1954. He was the last surviving member of his class. 

He began private practice in Pictou, Nova Scotia.  Six years later he moved to New Glasgow where he practiced until his retirement.  While in New Glasgow he served on the town council and was Mayor for 17 years.  He served on several boards including the Board of Governors of Saint Francis Xavier, Nova Scotia School Board, New Glasgow Police Committee, Rink Commission and Aberdeen Hospital Board.  As Mayor he was instrumental in developing a Pollution Control System for the East River.  He was a wealth of knowledge on any subject one would bring up: “Before there was Google, there was Dad.” He enjoyed wintering for over twenty years in Largo, Florida where he was a chorus member of the Heedless Horsemen.  He travelled throughout Europe and enjoyed many cruises in the Caribbean.

He is survived by his wife, Edna (Henderson); his daughters, Dalyce (Dr. Doug Keeling) and Jennie (Andy MacGregor); his son, David (Cathy Hunter); step-daughter, Nancy (Dr. Yvon Belliveau); grandchildren, Dr. Alexis Keeling (Kevin Sweezey), Kaley Keeling, Ian Belliveau (Hannah Soloman), Claire Belliveau; brother-in-law, Reg McLean; and nephew, Scott McLean (Nicole).

He was predeceased by his sister, Maureen McLean. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, August 18 at 10:00 am in the St. Joseph’s Chruch, Kentville. Memorial donations in his name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., Coldbrook, NS, B4R 1B9 (902-679-2822).