Obituary of Harry Walter Edmondstone
After a rich and fulfilling life, Harry passed away peacefully with family by his side on October 20, 2022 in his 95th year. Beloved husband of his late bride, Ingrid for 65 years. Dearly loved by his children Alec (Jo-Anne), John, Peter (Shufen), Paul (Cathy) and Mary Ann (Stan). Proud and loving grandfather to Neill (Victoria), Christopher (Chantal), Jorden (Megan), Liam (Micah), Joshua (Keanna), Colin (Alie) and Kylie (Evan), and great-grandson Rowan, whose arrival brought great joy. Harry is survived by sisters-in-law Janet Edmondstone and Cathy Busby, and was cherished uncle to many nephews, nieces, and their families. A loyal friend to many, he will be greatly missed.
Predeceased by parents Harry and Angela, brother Tom, and in-laws Barry and Carolyn Kennedy, Anne and John Dewar, Garry and Jayne Kennedy.
Harry graduated from St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto (1949), Osgoode Law School (1953), then returned to St. Catharines to join the law firm of Bench, Keogh, Rogers and Grass. Within 15 years, he was named Queen’s Counsel, and in 1978 became a highly respected Provincial Court Judge, until his retirement in 1997.
Harry was kind, humble, and he was always a true gentleman. He loved life’s simple pleasures - entertaining guests, celebrations with family, tending his gardens, and spending time with Ingrid by his side. Also enjoyed curling and playing bridge. An active volunteer and community man, Harry made a positive difference in the lives of many. He was appreciated for his time at Community Care, recognized by Rowing Canada for 55 years of dedicated service, received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and was inducted into the St. Catharines Sports Hall of Fame as a Builder. Served as chair of the Niagara District Airport Commission, president of the St. Catharines Rowing Club and was a member of the St. Catharines Golf and Country Club, St. Catharines PROBUS Club, and the St. Catharines Rowing Alumni Association. A love of travel took him on many spectacular vacations and adventures, and as an avid baseball fan he enjoyed trips to the ballpark to watch the Blue Jays, including their very first game at Exhibition Stadium.
Thank you to the nurses and support staff, both at Hotel Dieu-Shaver Hospital and Henley House, for their care and compassion. Special thanks to Sr. Louise and Fr. Greg for their pastoral care, particularly during times of isolation.
In accordance with Harry’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines on Sunday, October 30, 2022 from 2 to 4 pm with Vigil Prayers at 3:30 and 7 to 9 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Julia Church, Glenridge Ave. & Glen Morris Dr., St. Catharines on Monday, October 31 at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow the Mass.
Memorial donations to Hotel Dieu-Shaver Hospital, the St. Catharines Rowing Club, or St. Julia Catholic Church in Harry’s honour would be appreciated by his family.
For those wishing to view the Funeral Mass via livestream, please click the following link: https://www.youtube.com/c/StJuliaRomanCatholicChurchStCatharines