It is with extremely heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Wayne Ralph Lidstone, beloved father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law and friend. After a short battle with lung cancer and surrounded by his loving family, Wayne passed peacefully away at home at 76 years old, on September 8th, 2025. Born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, he was the son of the late Ralph Lidstone and the late Vera Jane Lidstone.

Wayne's passion was always his children, grandchildren and family. In his early years, he loved to coach his son’s baseball, played cards, darts and spent countless hours truck driving with his company Trio Trucking in Lark Harbour, NL. Later in life, he moved to Fort McMurray and worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator in the Alberta Oil Sands with Cow Harbour Construction and Aecon Mining. Even as arthritis began to affect him, Wayne never let it slow him down, his love for hard work was part of who he was. Anyone who knew Wayne loved him for his gentle spirt and passion for helping others. When he retired, he moved back to his home of Lark Harbour. Four years ago, Wayne decided he wanted to be closer to the pride and joy of his life and moved to Nova Scotia to be with his son Chad, Nicky and "pop's boys". 

A devoted family man, Wayne was the proud father of Chad and the cherished “Poppy” to three adoring grandchildren—Brandon, Max, and William—who brought immense joy to his life. His family was his greatest treasure. To Chad, he was not just a father, but truly the best dad a son could ask for. Wayne carried himself with a peaceful presence. He was the kind of man who, no matter where he went, always seemed to run into someone he knew. Even after several years of retirement, his phone would often ring from a coworker simply because they were thinking of him. 

Wayne is survived by his son Chad, who was his best friend and shadow; his daughter in law Nicky who made their family complete and cared for Wayne everyday till the end; grandsons, Brandon, Max, and William; nine siblings—Everett (Joan), Bruce (Therese), Harold (Judy), Beverly, Robert (Judy), Eric, Karen (Sam), Eugene, and Kimberley (Shawn) as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, former co-workers, and many dear friends. He will also he fondly remembered by his Nova Scotia neighbours and friends. 

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and cherished son, Bruce.

Cremation has taken place, and his ashes will be brought to Lark Harbour, NL to join his beloved son, Bruce, in rest.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Wayne's legacy is one of boundless, unconditional love. To those who knew him as Poppy, he simply couldn't say no. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the East Hants VON Palliative Care Team, the Colchester East Hants Health Centre’s Cancer Clinic, Dr. Babatolu (Family Physician), Dr. Taylor and Dr. French (Thoracics surgery), and Dr. Mary MacNeil (Oncology) for their care. Thank you to everyone who have sent messages and dropped off food. Thank you to Ettinger Funeral Home for their care and professionalism. 

The family welcomes any donations of shrubs, plants or trees sent or arranged directly with the family. There will be a memorial garden planted in memory of Wayne at the home of Chad and Nicky.

Condolences, words of comfort and memories of Wayne can be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com