Obituary of Forrest Conser Bent
Forrest Bent, 93 of Wolfville NS, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025. Born in Forest Glade NS, where he attended the one-room school to the end of grade 10 and completed high school at MacDonald Consolidated school in Middleton. He attended Acadia University receiving a Bachelor of Science degree. Following a year at De Landbouwhogeschool in the Netherlands Forrest proceeded to Cornell University receiving a Ph.D. in 1958. Following two years in Nigeria at the Badeggi Rice Research Station he returned to Acadia University joining the staff of the Biology Department. During his twenty-nine years at Acadia University, Forrest served in various positions including head of the department. Further studies were pursued at Cornell University, University of Iowa, University of Minnesota, and McMaster University.
Aside from academic pursuits, Forrest had a life-long interest in ministering to others which included working for two years in Nigeria and Pakistan as well as short work projects in India, Bolivia, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. More locally he participated in Habitat for Humanity builds in Halifax and the Annapolis Valley. He also was involved in canoeing programs and International Christmas under the auspices of the Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship.
Forrest is survived by his sons Garth, Graeme (Cecile), and Darryl (Holly); daughter Erika; grandchildren Emily (Ryan), Emma, and Paul; great-granddaughter Evangeline (Emily & Ryan); as well as sisters Marion and Muriel plus numerous nieces and nephews.
Forrest was predeceased by his wife Jane; his parents Lily and Parker Bent; brothers Murray, Roy, Alden, George, and Gerald and his sisters Doris, Enid, Evelyn, Jean, Kath, Anna, and Phyllis.
Cremation has taken place. By family request, there will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life will take place in August. Family flowers only please. Memorial donations may be made to Doctors without Borders, Wolfville United Baptist Church or charity of choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., Coldbrook, NS, B4R 1B9 (902-679-2822).
