- Archie Alonzo Guptell of Hantsport, born September 1, 1938, the son of Alonzo and Beatrice (Myles) Guptell passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026.
Archie grew up on West Brooklyn Mountain, Kings County where he spent his days farming, fishing and exploring the woods. Being out in nature was where he felt most at home. At the age of 21, he met a young girl from the Hants Shore, Sheila Wilkinson, who he fell in love with at first sight. On August 6, 1960, the day after Sheila turned 17, they married at the little church in West Brooklyn. Together, they built a beautiful life together and remained faithfully devoted to one another for nearly 66 years.
Archie dedicated his working years to Minas Basin Pulp & Power in Hantsport. He was proud of his work and the friendships he built over his many years of employment. He retired early due to the onset of Parkinson’s disease.
In retirement Archie enjoyed many years camping at BeachBrook Campground. Where there was a guitar, a melody on the wind or a drink to be shared with a friend, that’s where you’d find him. He had a deep love of music, especially Hank Williams – and found great joy in playing his guitar and jamming with friends. Music truly made his heart sing.
He loved a good story. He often shared tales of his younger days – whether about hunting, fishing, an old truck or a motorcycle – and if you had a story, he had one (or three) to match. Whatever story he told was either fast… or “bay big”.
At home, he loved to putter in the yard and his workshop. He was rarely seen without his beloved cat curled up on his knee. Sitting in his chair by the window, keeping watch over the world outside, he was always ready to share an update on how many deer he had spotted in the pasture.
Dad’s pride and joy was his home and his family. He loved us dearly and was proud of our accomplishments. He instilled in us the belief that we could do anything, because he himself never shied away from a challenge. He gave us a strong work ethic. He loved us quietly - a love you could feel in your bones without need for words.
He loved Mom more than anything in the world. Together they grew through the six decades of marriage. She was his rock and his guiding light.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the nursing staff on Burden Lane at Dykeland Lodge. The love, respect and empathy showed to our father went above and beyond. Thank you as well to Dr. Cathy Smith for her care in Dad’s last days. We are deeply grateful for the kindness shown to our family during such a difficult time.
Dad will forever in be our hearts. In our hands when we work, on the breeze when we’re outside, in an old country song and in our stories. He will always be our hero and our legend.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in memory can be made to the Lockhartville Community Hall - a place where friends gather.
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1938 - 2026 (87 years)
