Matthew Forrest Vickers Jr.

We, the family of Matthew Forrest Vickers Jr., regret to announce his passing on March 13, 2026.

The eldest son of Matthew and Freda (Wolstenholme) Vickers, he was born August 30, 1940, in Sydney Mines.

After leaving school, Junior worked at the British Canadian Co-op for five years, then pursued a career with the Canadian Coast Guard. During his service, he engaged in studies at the Nautical Institute of Nova Scotia and rose to the position of Chief Engineer.

His work involved search and rescue and icebreaking operations, as well as maintaining aids to navigation on the East Coast. One of the highlights of his career was a trip to the Arctic, which involved the rescue of the U.S. Coast Guard ship Northwind, then in imminent peril. The crew was recognized for their heroic efforts and received a commendation upon arrival in Seattle. During this event, the Northwest Passage became impassable, requiring the ship John A. Macdonald to circumnavigate the continent, stopping in San Francisco, traversing the Panama Canal, making port in Jamaica, and eventually returning to Halifax.

Entering retirement gave Junior the chance to reconnect with his home community. He enjoyed many years as a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 8, the Kiwanis Ceilidh Golden K Club, and played and sang with a group of musical friends known as “The Circle” for 11 years. Junior was active in his church throughout his life, serving on the Board of Trustees.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betty (MacNaughton) Vickers; son, Raymond (Karen) Vickers, Sydney Mines; Gordon (Cindy) Carmichael, Dartmouth; Sandy Carmichael, Eastern Passage; Linda (Randy) Lucas, Groves Point; and Margie (Daryl) Evans, Boularderie East; as well as nine wonderful grandchildren and many precious great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sister, Marlene (Sam) Chapdelaine, Florence; brothers, Ron (Charlene), Englishtown, and Tom, Georges River; along with many friends, near and far. He was predeceased by his brother, Tim.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the “miracle workers” on Four East at the Regional Hospital, who made it possible for him to return home, and to the palliative care team who provided comfort and care in his home.

Family flowers only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carman United Church, the Lung Association, or Palliative Care.

Visitation will take place on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 2–4 p.m. at JM Jobes Funeral Home, Main Street, Sydney Mines. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at   11 a.m. at Carman United Church, Sydney Mines. All who knew him are welcome to attend.

Sail on, Chief.

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