Acadia University is saddened to share the passing of Lee Adams, longtime caretaker and boatman on Bon Portage Island, on October 31. Lee served the Department of Biology with remarkable dedication for two decades, from 2001 to 2021, supporting the Evelyn and Morrill Richardson Field Station and the many students, researchers, and community members who visited and worked there. 

A mechanic by trade, Lee knew boats inside and out, and provided safe passage to and from the island for hundreds of visitors each year. But those job titles don’t adequately capture Lee’s roles nor his impact. Lee was the person who could fix anything, from boats and four-wheelers to buildings. He was part tour guide and storyteller, part mentor and counsellor, and a trusted bridge between Acadia and the communities of Shag Harbour and Barrington. 

Lee loved having students on the island. “When I first started doing all the maintenance, I didn’t think it was worth it,” he once said. “Then I saw the students and said, ‘it’s worth it.’” Known for saying “island livin’, nothin’ like it,” students produced a t-shirt they designed with the saying on its arm. Acadia student Emily Mills bookended an article for the Atheneum about her experience doing research on the island with recollections of Lee. Fittingly, he is interwoven into her memories of island living. 

“Lee was such a unique talent,” recalls Dr. Dave Shutler (Professor Emeritus, Biology). “He was an incredibly pleasant person. It was always a joy to work with him, and it was a privilege to know him.” 

As per Lee’s wishes, there will be no service or visitation. Arrangements are under the care of H. M. Huskilson’s Funeral Home in Barrington, and online condolences may be sent to huskilson@ns.aliantzinc.ca. 

Memorial donations may be made to any charity of choice. For those wishing to support the field station he tended with such care, Acadia maintains a Bon Portage Island Fund dedicated to its operation and upkeep.