Obituary of Eldon Andrew Buchanan

It is with great sadness that the family of Eldon Andrew Buchanan announces his passing, which occurred on January 16, 2024 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton. Born in Sussex, NB, on February 19, 1929, he was a son of the Late Melbourne and Mary Ann (McFarlane) Buchanan.

Eldon is survived by his children: Brian (Kathy) Buchanan of Sussex, Bruce (Michelle) Buchanan of Quispamsis, Britta (Dennis) Belliveau of Fredericton, and Bradley (Vicki) Buchanan of Sussex; his grandchildren: Jamie (Paul) Roy, Mark (Karissa), Evan (Sydney), Brandon (Katie), Aidan, Cullen, Nathan, Lauren, Miriam; and his great-grandchildren: Elisa and Xavier. Eldon is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Joan Doherty of Apohaqui, and Carol Floyd of Apohaqui as well as several nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Eldon was predeceased by his loving wife, Doris (Pagett); his brother, Milton (Viola); his sister, Sadie (George) Gamble; and brothers-in-law: Joseph Doherty, Ernest Pagett, and Clifford Floyd.

Eldon met the love of his life, Doris Pagett, went on to marry in 1961, and started farming in Dutch Valley on his homestead. He soon bought the adjacent farm and grew his Jersey herd. Eldon was a hard
worker, well paired with Dot, who ran the farmhouse, and kept pretty close tabs on the barns too. As four kids came along there was more and more to manage, but he was always proud of his family.
Eldon’s grandchildren, and later great-grandchildren, held a spot in his heart, and you knew by his teasing he was happy to have them close.

Eldon’s life was full of new adventures.  He began his working life as a teacher at the Rockville School, worked for his brother Milton at Buchanan Motors, took up farming and later auctioneering both privately and for the Co-op weekly cattle sale. When he retired from farming in 1988, Eldon decided a new career in real estate was just what he needed.  Real estate satisfied his thirst for meeting and helping new people.

Eldon was always active over the years serving on many boards and in various community organizations. He held many offices with the Orange Lodge and the Royal Black Chapter with over 70 years of service. He served on boards of the Sussex Health Centre, Fundy Mutual Insurance, the Anglican Homes, Sussex & Studholm Agricultural Society board, and served on St Marks Group committee for scouting.

Faith was central in Eldon’s life.  He was a life member of St Mark’s Anglican church in Sussex Corner, and served in many roles including lay reader, warden, Sunday School teacher, and choir member.

Eldon’s last two years at Mill Cove, were a blessing.  The care and attention received there by his care givers was always over and above our expectations.  He enjoyed many activities, games, and not to mention amazing meals.  You never knew what crazy adventures the residents were up to, from reindeer hunting to fishing trips, amazing races, and bingo games.  It would be too hard to say what he loved the most.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB (506-433-1176), from where a visitation will take place on Friday, January 19 from 5-8pm. The Orange Lodge will hold a tribute Friday evening at 4:45pm. A celebration of Eldon’s life will take place on Saturday, January 20 at 11:00am from St. Mark’s Anglican Church (4 Needle St, Sussex Corner, NB).

Donations in memory of Eldon may be made to St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Sussex Corner, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com