A larger-than-life guy who was always quick with a smile and even quicker with an offer of hospitality, Harley passed away peacefully and surrounded by loving family at the age of 78 on Friday, December 15th, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia, Ontario.
Harley was born in Sarnia on March 24th, 1945 to his parents Alice and William. He lived and worked in his hometown for his entire life, although he spent much of it travelling across North America with his family. Harley met his wife-to-be Linda at a roller rink just outside Canatara Park when they were both in high school. They quickly went from high school sweethearts to husband and wife, tying the knot on June 29th, 1968 at St. Bartholomew’s Church in Sarnia. After graduating from high school, he got a job at Polysar where he went on to work as a pipefitter for 37 years before retiring at the ripe young age of 57 and enjoying every second of his well-deserved rest.
Harley and Linda lived a great love story for over 55 years of marriage, and part of that story was the births of their children Beau, Kyle, and Sara. Harley was a devoted father and together with Linda they did everything they could to give their kids a good life. Later in life Harley added “Grampy” to “Dad” on his list of titles, and happily doted on his granddaughter Ella and grandsons Evan, Keaton, and Jordan.
In addition to being a family man, Harley was a friend to too many people to list here and always took pleasure in the company of others. His house was always open, and when he wasn’t hosting friends he was often visiting or going on vacation with them. Harley also enjoyed sports; he was an avid fan of Detroit’s pro teams, played broomball, and was a regular on the links at Huron Oaks and other golf courses, including one in Petrolia where he scored a hole-in-one at a Polysar employee tournament.
Although his house had always been a pet-friendly one, it wasn’t until last year that Harley became a dog owner. He and Linda named their first dog Joy, because that was what she brought into their lives and home. Harley was predeceased by his parents Alice and William and his brothers Clifford and Murrell, and is survived by Linda, Sara (Joel), Kyle (Amy), Beau (Julia), and Joy.
Harley’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. D. Kim and the VON nurses whose care extended his time at home with loved ones. The family is also deeply grateful to the nurses, staff and volunteers at St. Joseph’s for the exemplary care they provided him during the end of his illness.
Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. A memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home.
Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca.