Ronald J. Griffiths

GRIFFITHS, Ronald John, June 25, 1933 - October 1, 2016.

Ronald Griffiths, a prominent marine engineer and businessman in the Canadian marine industry, died October 1, 2016 in the Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital, Lunenburg, after a brief illness.

He was the founder and President of Jaymar Diesel Ltd., Mahone Bay and formerly Canadian General Manager of Colt Industries, Fairbanks Morse Marine Division. Born in Birkenhead, England in 1933, he graduated from Birkenhead School and apprenticed at Cammell Lairds Shipyard. For a time he sailed as engineer officer to the west coast of Africa for Holt Shipping. In 1956, he immigrated to Canada and soon established himself as an expert in his field as sales and engineering representative for major European marine diesel engine manufacturers. Well read, he was a knowledgeable person who always had time for chatting with friends and particularly enjoyed mentoring those of the younger generation. He was well-known and loved for his sense of humor and quick wit and for telling colorful tales. He was a member of the Chester Golf Club and a former president of the Bridgewater Handgun Club. “Dr. Doolittle” to all of the animals, wild and domestic around his property in Martin’s Point; he will be especially missed by his constant canine companions, Cassidy and Carrick.

He was the devoted husband for 36 years of Elizabeth (Betty) Smith, and proud and loving father of his four children; Ian (Eleanor), Heather (Joe), Jillian (Kevin) and Dylan (Julie) and of his two Smith step children, Mark (Fran) and Alison (Jim). He is also survived by nine grandchildren and a special niece, Janet, in England.

A memorial service will be held 2pm, Wednesday, October 5 at St. James’ Anglican Church, Mahone Bay.

Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to QEII Health Sciences Foundation-Cancer Care Nova Scotia or Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital.

The family is greatly indebted to Dr. Blaine Beaton and the staff of Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital for their compassionate care during this sad time.

Cremation and arrangements entrusted to the care of Mahone Funeral Home, P.O. Box 200, 32 Parish St., Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0 Tel. 902-624-8241. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.mahonefuneral.ca