Charles “Charlie” Milligan, 89, of Waverley, Nova Scotia, passed away at home surrounded by members of his family, after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Poplar Grove, Prince Edward Island, to Robert Bayfield and Bessie Jane (Palmer). He grew up in Poplar Grove with his four brothers and two sisters, working on the family farm, and he attended the local one room school through to Grade 12.

He is survived by his loving wife, Hester (MacLean); children, Clifford (Darlene), Carl (Cindy); grandchildren: Bradly, Christopher, Natalie, and Stacey: great grandchildren Derek, Scott, Jane, and Eden, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Charles was predeceased by parents Robert and Bessie, brothers Raymond, Elwin, Lawrence, Gerald, sisters Marge, Shirley, and great-granddaughter Caroline.

Charles found his lifelong career as a Landscape Contractor. His early years were spent crossing Canada to landscape and plant trees at numerous military bases including Shearwater, Gagetown, and Greenwood. He spent almost 50 years as a landscaper adding beauty to our world in his own quiet way, including approximately 28 years running Waverley Landscaping. Charles and his wife Hester spent 20 plus years running a bed and breakfast out of their home, which afforded them the opportunity to meet people from all around the world.

He loved his gardens and was most content at his home on the lake, in Waverley. His hobbies included collecting coins and stamps and playing numerous card games, which was a challenge for us as he always seemed to know what was in every one’s hand. Charles and Hester were 40-year members of the Waverley Industrial Bowling league, enjoyed square dancing together and they were lifetime members of the United Church of Canada in Waverley and Bedford.

The family would like to thank the health care teams at the QE2 Hospital, Dartmouth General hospital, Palliative Care, and the VON, for their outstanding support and care.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a visitation at T. J. Tracy Funeral Home in Halifax from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday March 30th. There will be a Celebration of Life at the Bedford United Church on Friday March 31st, at 1:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. Family flowers only please. Memorial donations can be made to Bedford United Church, Canadian Cancer Society, or another charity of your choice.