Fougere, W. “Clayton” . It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Clayton Fougere on July 28, 2026, at St Martha’s Hospital, Antigonish, NS, with his beloved daughter, Jennifer, and family members by his side.
Clayton was born on April 19, 1951, the 7 th of 14 children, to Wilfred and Margaret (Dolly McKeough) Fougere, at St Martha’s Hospital in Antigonish, NS.
Clayton retired from the “Stora Pulp Mill” where he was known as an “oiler”. His former colleagues respectfully speak of his conscientiousness, and his expert ability in knowing the sound of each pump and when it needed maintenance attention. The nature of his work meant that he was familiar with workers throughout the workplace and, combined with his natural friendliness, ensured that lunchtimes in the cafeteria made for enjoyable and memorable conversations. Clayton was a man who enjoyed laughing and telling stories and he was always entertaining.
Clayton was a modest man and a genuine friend to a large variety of personalities. He was truly dedicated to consistently making time to visit many people, often bringing little “gifts” on his drop-in visits. He brought much joy, comfort and happiness to those with whom he spent time. He listened to their life events and shared his “stories” that often resulted in much laughter. Clayton’s eyes sparkled when he spoke and one couldn’t help but be lifted up by his company. His devotion to his values and ideals, his kindness, sincerity, and honesty, resulted in his creation of special bonds with many people. He was devoted to his siblings and provided loving care and outings for them. Clayton was very much a realist, who had a jovial character whom others trusted and treasured for his unwavering friendship, loyalty and his unconditional acceptance of others. His allegiance to the Montreal Canadians was well known. No amount of teasing by friends supporting other teams caused him to lessen his support for his “Habs”.
Clayton was a man of deep Christian faith. He was especially devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Sacred Heart of Mary. He made time for prayer, attending Mass, and religious writings. He frequently visited “Our Lady of Grace Monastery”, formerly St Augustine’s Monastery, where he enjoyed quiet reflection and tranquility from this religious oasis where the Stations of the Cross, along the path in the woods to St Anne’s Chapel, the water of the Holy Spring, and the hill of Calvary, brought him much peace and comfort over the years. Clayton’s faith enabled him to stoically accept his illness that took his life so quickly, with not one complaint.
Clayton is survived by, and his memory will be cherished by his much beloved daughter, Jennifer, Moncton, NB; his brothers: Gerard (Susan) Bible Hill, NS; Jimmy (Carolyn) Sherwood Park, AB; Damian (Miriam) Antigonish, NS; Reggie (Jeannie) Stellarton, NS; Bert (Hilma), Bernie
(Cathy), Donnie (Sharon) all of Havre Boucher, NS; his sisters: Winnie (Joe), Maple Ridge, BC; Marian, Sherwood Park, AB; Barb (Dave), Halifax, NS; Bernadette (Late Julius) Waverley, NS; Colleen (Shayne) Dartmouth, NS; Theresa (John) Havre Boucher, NS; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Clayton was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred and Dolly Fougere, his brother-in-law, Julius Horvath, and his nephew Sean Cordwell.
Clayton’s family acknowledges and thanks the staff members of St Martha’s Hospital who attended to his care and comfort.
In honour of Clayton’s memory, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be from 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 p.m. on Sunday, August 2 in St. Paul’s Centre, Havre Boucher. Mass for Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 3 from St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, Havre Boucher. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com
