Kentville, NS
December 8, 1930 - January 24, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of Francis "Keith" Boates on January 24, 2024, in the Valley Regional Hospital. Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, on December 8, 1930,
Keith was the son of F. Irving and Verna (Smith) Boates. He attended Kings County Academy and obtained a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dalhousie University.
After working in the insurance industry for a few years, Keith made a monumental career change when he and his wife, Charlotte (Ritcey) purchased a large apple farm in 1960 and moved their family to Woodville, Nova Scotia. Keith became quite a pioneer during his 50+ years in the farming sector when he not only grew apples but also promoted various ways of marketing them. Initially Keith set out to export apples on a large scale; however, in the 1970s, his business focus changed to the local market and direct marketing. He opened, what is believed to be, the first U-pick in Nova Scotia, operated a fruit stand for 30 years at Bayer’s Road Shopping Centre, exported apples to Newfoundland by delivering them himself in a tractor trailer, produced sweet apple cider and apple cider vinegar, and later began transitioning the farm to organic with his son who continues to run Boates Farm today. Keith was past President of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association and member of the United Church of Canada.
As a boy, Keith always had a great interest in all things electrical and mechanical. In 1948, at the age of 18, Keith sought out a 1922 Stanley Steamer touring car. He drove this for many years, which fulfilled his interest in steam power. During his lifetime he owned steam, gas, diesel, and electric cars. He always claimed the ’22 steamer was quieter than his 2022 electric Kona and that the touring car had a far greater vantage point when travelling.
Keith loved spending time in his workshop where he always had a ‘project’ on. Among many, they included building his own continuous cider press, vinegar production equipment, apple harvester, solar heated swimming pool and reconfiguring his current home on the farm with passive solar, geothermal and photovoltaic where over the last few years, he used mostly solar energy. Keith was considered a man ahead of his time.
Keith is survived by his wife Charlotte (Ritcey) of 69 years; children, Janet (Doug) McDougall; Heather Boates (Ken Graham); and Brian (Karma Chickoski); grandchildren, Kyle (Sally), Sean (Joline), Sofia (Quincy), Lee (Jill), Kaleb and Clark; great grandchildren, Isabelle and Calvin; brother Matthew (Holly) and sister Catherine Green, along with nieces and nephews. Keith was predeceased by his parents and a brother in infancy.
As per Keith’s request, a private family service and interment has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at the Woodville Community Hall on Sunday, February 11 from 2-4 pm.
In Keith’s memory, be sure to buy local, re-use and recycle.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.
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