Tribute

Harold passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at the age of 94. He is survived by his wife, Genevieve, his stepchildren Gwen (Jack) Hunt, Ron (Barbara) Cochran, Rachel and Tricia (Michael), the extended family of 7 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife Annie, his parents Irvine and Lesley, two brothers Les and Norm, and one step grandchild Tracey.

Harold was born in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba December 26, 1917, but the family moved to Vancouver in 1926. He joined the Auxiliary RCAF in 1937 (111th CAC Squadron -Sea Island & Patricia Bay, Vancouver Island). He enlisted in the P.F. RCAF in September of 1939 and served more than 6 years as a Flight Sergeant in Commonwealth Training Plan -#3 SFTS Calgary. During his enlistment he also served in England with the #6 Bomber Group. After serving his country, he returned to Vancouver to work as a longshoreman until he settled into a career with Canada Post from which he was able to
retire.

Once retired, Harold enjoyed life by building radio controlled boats and sailing them at the Central Park Pond in Burnaby, where he was a life member of the Burnaby Association of Marine Modelers. When his wife, Annie passed away after 60 years of happy marriage he spent some time taking cruises, where he met his present wife, Genevieve. He then moved to the Interior of B.C. (the Kootenays) where he spent many happy hours in his new workshop and house.

Harold’s wife wishes to express her sincere gratitude to all the people involve in Harold’s care during his last few weeks of life, including Dr. Lea, the staff of the emergency room and acute care of Arrow Lakes Hospital and finally the staff of Minto House. All personnel involved in Harold’s care went above and beyond what was expected to help make him as comfortable as possible and to carry out Harold’s last wishes.
Cremation has already taken place and his remains will be placed in Vancouver with his first wife. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date. Any donations may be made to the Arrow Lakes Hospital Foundation or the local chapter of PAWS in Nakusp in memory of Harold.