June 1, 1922 - October 24, 2013
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Harry Woodward announces his passing on Thursday, October 24, 2013, in Arcola, Saskatchewan.
Harry was born on June 1, 1922 in Leeds, England to parents Ernest & Ellen Woodward. He grew up not far from there in the village of Scholes. During the Second World War he signed up with the R.A.F. During his posting to the Isle of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland he met May McKernan. In 1945 they wed and settled in England where John & Jane were born. Harry yearned for more for his young family and emigrated to Canada in 1954, settling in Burnaby, BC, where Eileen and Karen were born. His career as an insurance underwriter took the family to Regina, SK and later on to Portage La Prairie, MB. Harry retired in 1987 and he and May moved to Comox, BC. In the spring of 2013, Dad moved back to Saskatchewan to be closer to family.
Dad will be sadly and lovingly missed by his children: John (Molly), Jane Fix, Eileen Arbuthnot (Blair), Karen Bradica (John); grandchildren: Josh (Kristine Dechaine) & Ben (Melissa) Woodward, Adam (Sharrity Lavallee & her children Raelyn & Torian) & Ryan Fix, Victoria Courchaine (Joel), Devon Arbuthnot, Cailyn, Spencer & Matthew Bradica; great grandchildren: Zaida & Kinley Woodward, Naomi & Theresia Fix, Rowan & Graya Courchaine; extended family in England & Scotland; and close friends living in the Comox Valley.
Harry was predeceased by his wife May, parents Ernest & Ellen and brothers John & Edwin. Harry was a devoted husband, dad, granddad, great granddad and loyal friend. He was a gentle, practical man born of English integrity and tradition. He loved deeply but privately. He was well-read, well-informed and well-loved. He could fix anything and everything because he possessed what he called “British Ingenuity”. He had a keen eye, and later on, an ear, for detail. He tended to his gardens with great care and attention. He was still making lists and crossing them off until the very end. He was picky about his tea and was not shy about coaching people in its correct preparation.
Dad was 91 years old and still searching for the answers to life’s mysteries. He was rare and precious to all of us.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1599 Tunner Drive, Courtenay, BC, celebrated by Reverend Marek Paczka. Inurnment will be held immediately following the service at Courtenay Civic Cemetery.
If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Harry’s memory to the charity of your choice.