With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Jason Patrick Keating, age 44 — a beloved father, cherished son, loyal brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and a friend to many. Jason passed away on September 28, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and an unfillable space in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Born on October 12, 1980, Jason was the youngest son of Seldon and Debbie Keating (née Turple) and a loving brother to Seldon Keating Jr. He was brought up in a warm, loving home, where his mother—an incredible cook—filled their kitchen with the smells of tradition and care, shaping his deep appreciation for family and food. His father, a skilled fisherman, passed down not only the tools of the trade but also the of value of hard work, resilience, and respect for the sea. Jason carried with him the discipline, patience, and reverence for nature that his grandfathers, father and the ocean taught him. He grew up in the close-knit fishing village of Little Harbour, where his days were spent surrounded by family, cousins and friends who became like siblings. Together they created a lifetime of memories — playing baseball and basketball, swimming at Back Cove, jumping and fishing off the wharf, walking ditches, playing hide and seek, and gathering around beach bonfires that lit up both the night sky and their laughter-filled evenings.

Jason was a sweet and energetic boy, and that same spirit carried throughout his life. In his teenage years and early adulthood, he was a fixture in the local sports and social scene — playing in co-ed tournaments in Little Harbour, braving some of the coldest rinks to play hockey, hitting home runs with the Wolf Pack slo-pitch team, or lighting up late-night gatherings at the camp, in Southwest Cove, or at his parents’ home. If Jason was there, fun and laughter weren’t far behind.

For the past ten years, Jason made his living as a fisherman — a job that reflected his deep connection to the sea, his strong work ethic, and his love of the outdoors. Whether on land or water, Jason was someone whose presence you felt. His smile was unforgettable, his laugh contagious, his hugs warm and generous and his love for friends and family genuine and unwavering. Friends recall running into him at the wharf during lobster and herring season — a quick wave, a shared joke, a familiar smile that made it feel like no time had passed at all. No matter the challenges he faced, Jason remained true to himself — steady, kind, and full of heart.

More than anything, Jason’s greatest pride and joy were his beautiful daughters, Jorja and Lia. He loved them fiercely and spoke of them often. They were his heart, his world, and the source of his deepest happiness. He was a proud and devoted father, and his love and commitment to his girls was evident to everyone who knew him.

Jason is survived by his loving daughters, Jorja and Lia Keating; their mother, Heather Crowell, Lake Echo; his parents, Seldon and Debbie Keating, Little Harbour; his brother, Seldon Keating Jr. (partner Deanna), of Clam Harbour; nephew, Chase Keating and a wide circle of extended family, lifelong friends, teammates, members of his boat crew and his fishing community. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Douglas and Gloria (Power) Keating, and Elmore and Myrtle (McKay) Turple, Little Harbour.

A Loving Message from Lia, Jorja and Heather

We remember the volleyball games, the peaceful mornings spent fishing, and the fun nights at the movies — the simple, joyful moments that made life with you so special. You gave us memories full of laughter, warmth, and love.

We’ll always treasure our silly Mooseheads games and how happy you were in those moments. You loved cooking for us and made the best snack platters. Sundays won’t be the same without you — no Super Bowl, skating, or car shows will ever feel complete again.

You had a smile that could light up any room and a laugh that was impossible not to join. A true social butterfly, you thrived when surrounded by family and friends — especially your two beautiful daughters, who miss you more than words can say.

It brings us peace to imagine you out on the water, fishing alongside your grandfathers, watching over the harbour and keeping it safe. We know you’re home now, close to your loving family.

Rest Easy, Captain — Fair Winds and Calm Seas.

Fly High, Dad. You’ll always be in our Hearts and In Our Dreams.

With Love, Always and Forever.

Arrangements have been entrusted to D.S. Crowell & Son Funeral Home, Sheet Harbour. A Celebration of Jason’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Lake Echo Community Recreation Hall, 3168 Hwy 7, Lake Echo, NS. A Ceremonial Burial at Sea will take place on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. from Little Harbour. All welcome to attend. In keeping with the family's wishes, flowers from immediate family only, please.

To honour the life and legacy of Jason, donations may be made in support of who mattered most to him—his beloved daughters, Jorja and Lia—as they continue their journey through life, forever guided by his love, strength, and memory.

We invite you to honour Jason in your own way: by sharing a story, laughing with loved ones, taking a quiet moment by the sea, or simply remembering him with warmth in your heart. That’s how he would have wanted to be remembered — with love, laughter, and light.