SAXON, Roland David, MD, FRCS (C) - Middleton, Annapolis Co., N.S.  The family of the late Roland Saxon sadly announce his passing on Tuesday, October 24th, 2023, at home, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 85 following a brief illness. Born in New Waterford, NS he was the son of the late William and Mary (Nagy) Saxon.

Roland graduated from Dalhousie University School of Medicine in 1963.  After graduation, Dr. Saxon served three years in the Canadian Armed Forces before receiving post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Dalhousie and Boston Universities. Roland and his wife Joan settled with their family in Antigonish, and he became a valued member of the medical and general community. Dr. Saxon was a leader amongst his colleagues.  Locally, he served as president of the medical staff for two terms and as chief of staff at St. Martha's Hospital for five years.  Roland also fulfilled executive roles both provincially (with the Medical Society of Nova Scotia/Doctors NS as President of the local branch for three years and President of the provincial organization in 1983, as well as serving an executive role with the College of Physicians and Surgeons Nova Scotia) and nationally, as a member of the board of directors of the Canadian Medical Association for two terms.  In 2005, he was awarded the Doctors Nova Scotia Senior Membership award.

His desire to help and support those around him expanded far beyond his commitment to the medical profession and into his community where he was involved in the Antigonish Food Bank, the Boy Scouts of Canada and St. James United Church. He was a founding investor in the Keppoch Mountain ski hill and an avid skier.  He loved the water and yachting on his sailboat.  In his retirement years Roland spent his time with his wife Joan tending to their gardens, raising birds and wintering in Florida.  They could often be seen walking hand-in-hand in Middleton where they spent their 10 last years.

Roland loved his family dearly.  Especially his grandchildren.  Roland is now with his wife and best friend, Joan, who passed away six months ago from Alzheimer's Disease.

Roland is survived by his children, Steven (Wendy) Saxon; Paul (Michele) Saxon; John (Fran) Saxon; and Heather Saxon; grandchildren, Hannah (Anthony) MacPhee, Brian (Shaylyn MacLean) Saxon, Liam (Haila Pye) Saxon, Caroline Saxon, Maura Saxon, Roreigh Saxon, Drew Saxon; great grandchildren, George and Piper MacPhee.  He is also survived by his brother, Victor (Shirley) Saxon; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his wife Joan Marie (Inglis); and his daughter, Carrie-Lynn Saxon.

Service will be announced at a later date.  Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, St. James United Church, Antigonish, St. John's United Church, Middleton or a charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main St., toll free 1-855-825-3448. On-line guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com