HIMMELMAN, L Col John CD (Ret'd) – 68, of Middleton, passed away Wednesday, April 27, 2016 suddenly, at home. Born in Halifax on September 24, 1947, he was a son of the late Carl and Olive (Edmonds) Himmelman. In 1962 at age 15 John joined the Canadian Army as a Boy Soldier; in 1983 he attended the Canadian Land Forces Command and Staff College, Kingston, Ontario; in 1988 and 1989 he attended USMC Command and Staff College, Quantico, VA. On April 1, 1990 he was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel and appointed Commanding Officer of the West Nova Scotia Regiment. Later that year he and his wife Judy went on an official visit to the Queens Lancashire Regiment. During his command of the West Nova Scotia Regiment, HRH Princess Diana was appointed "Colonel-In-Chief" of the Regiment. John's military career continued to be a large part of his civilian life for many years. His last occupation was that of Driver Enhancement Officer for the Province of Nova Scotia from which he retired in 2012. John then volunteered countless hours with the Town of Middleton as Town Councilor, where he served on various committees. He became a Member of the Masonic Lodge in April 1987 when he joined Composite Lodge #105 Halifax. John was a member of Keith Lodge #17 Halifax and Laurie Lodge #70 Springhill. In 2004 he affiliated with Ionic Lodge #73 Middleton, where he served as Master in 2009 and 2013. John served as D.D.G.M in 2008 for the Annapolis/Digby District. John was a remarkable husband, father, grandfather and friend who will be sadly missed by all. A true family man, providing love, encouragement and advice to his family. He loved and looked forward to family gatherings at his home.

He is survived by his wife the love of his life for 46 years, Judith F. (Morse); daughter Catherine (Clint) Slaunwhite , Lower Sackville; son Curt (Krista) Himmelman, Halifax; grandchildren Madisyn, Mason & Cameron; brother Tom Himmelman, Alberta; sister, Ann DeLong, Bridgewater and mother-in-law Louise Morse, Berwick. He was pre-deceased by brother- in-law Laurie DeLong. Cremation has taken place. A Masonic Tribute conducted by Ionic Lodge #73, followed by a Memorial Service will be held at 6:00PM, Saturday, April 30 th , 2016 in the Middleton Funeral Home, with Rev. Leon Langille officiating. A reception will follow the service. By request, family flowers only. Donations in memory may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association. Online guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com