Obituary of Karl Robert Kaleva

On March 23, 2024, Karl Robert Kaleva, 66 of Lorne passed away at the Aberdeen Hospital. Karl was a first-generation Canadian who was predeceased by his parents, Kaarel Kaleva (1912-1999) and Vaike (Kont) Kaleva (1920-2014), both of whom immigrated to Canada from Estonia in 1951. Karl and his older sisters, Inna (David) Harrison of Lorne, and Karen (Trevor) English of New Zealand grew up on the family farm in Lorne. Karl attended the only remaining one-room schoolhouse that is now situated in Truro. After high school, Karl obtained his Bachelor of Commerce from Dalhousie University and later received his CMA designation. While at Dalhousie, Karl met the love of his life, Debra Bauckman who was working in the science library at the time. They married and moved to Lorne where they raised two children, Griffin (Rachel) and Sarah (Davey). Karl was also the proud ‘Poppy’ to three grandchildren - Kai, Madelyn, and Alice. Karl worked in private industry for a few years before getting his dream job of teaching at the Nova Scotia Community College - Truro Campus for 26 years. He took great pride in preparing his students for future careers in the business world. Karl was known for his dry sense of humour, his kindness and gentleness, and as someone who would go out of his way to help others. He loved his cats and dogs, gardening and home improvement projects. He also loved entertaining family, friends, and the Estonian community. Some of these gatherings have even become Kaleva folklore. Karl was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his sisters, and three half-siblings, and a cousin in Estonia. He also is survived by nephews, Robert, Bradley, Michael and Cayle and a niece, Megan. A visitation will take place at the H. W. Angus Funeral Home in New Glasgow on Thursday, March 28th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nova Scotia SPCA – Pictou Shelter.