PICTOU/NEW GLASGOW – Esther Ann Gratto, 98, Northumberland Veterans Unit, Sutherland Harris Memorial Hospital, Pictou, formerly of New Glasgow, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, April 4, 2018 in the Unit. Born October 19, 1919 in New Glasgow, she was a daughter of the late John S. and Jean A. (Inglis) Gratto. Esther served as an Equipment Assistant in the Royal Canadian Air Force from 1942–1945. She was educated in New Glasgow schools and was a graduate of the former Maritime Business College. Esther’s working years were spent in Halifax and Toronto. Following retirement, she resided in Truro for a period of time, where she was active with the Royal Canadian Legion and SPCA. Esther was a member of First United Church, Trenton and The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 26, Truro and Branch 34, New Glasgow. For Esther, “Life has changed; not ended!” She is survived by nieces and nephews; grandnieces and grandnephews; great nieces and great nephews; cousins. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by brothers, John Stewart Gratto and Robert MacFarlane Gratto; sisters-in-law, Margaret Kathleen “Kay” Gratto and Margaret Ruth Gratto. At Esther’s request there will be no visitation. A public graveside service and Royal Canadian Legion Tribute Service will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 7, 2018 in Heatherdale Memorial Gardens with Rev. Derek Ellsworth officiating. Donations may be made in Esther’s memory to Pictou County SPCA. (Please click on link to donate online) Thank you to Dr. Cooper, Nursing Staff, Environmental Services Staff, Dietary Services Staff, Recreation Co-ordinator Chipman, Chaplain Simmons, Support Staff, Volunteers at Northumberland Veterans Unit and Dr. Hack for the exceptional care Esther received. Many thanks to the caregivers who assisted Esther throughout the years. Arrangements are entrusted to P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Esther Ann Gratto, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.