ARMSTRONG, Harold

WWII Veteran
November 29, 1922 – November 21, 2010

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our much loved father, papa and great papa Harold Armstrong on Sunday November 21, 2010 in his 88th year at the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH). Beloved husband of the late Cecile Armstrong. Dear father of David (Guylaine), William, Veronica (Charlie), and Irene (Fred). Loving papa to Bill (Julie), Robin (Andre), Marc, David, Jesse, James, Stephanie, and the late Christine. Great papa to Gage, Charles, Alexandra and Hailey. Loving brother to Vera Garland and special uncle to Gerry and Ted and the late Bobby Easterbrook. Predeceased by his sister Edna, and brothers Billy, Eddie, Robbie and Larry.

Harold was the youngest born to Robert Armstrong and Susan Harrington on November 29, 1922 in Montreal, Quebec. His mother passed away when he was five years old and his older sister Vera helped raise him. As a young man, he joined the army and he served in WWII in France from 1939 to 1945.

He enlisted in the Army on December 10, 1942 and served with the RCASC in Canada, England and Northwest Europe during World War II. He was discharged on March 15, 1946. Harold was awarded the 1939-45 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal and the Volunteer Star with Clasp.

Upon his return to Canada he drifted from place to place then in 1952 settled in Hawk Junction, Ontario, and from then on he always referred to Hawk as his home. He met and married Cecile Souliere and together they raised four children. Harold was a devoted volunteer for the community of Hawk Junction where he served several terms on the Local Services Board. He was often referred to as the “Mayor of Hawk“. Harold worked for the Algoma Central Railway, Department of Highways and retired from the Algoma Ore Division in Wawa. He was most proud of being a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 429, Wawa, Ontario.

The family will receive friends at the Hawk Junction Community Hall on Thursday November 25, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. until time of Memorial and Legion service at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Bonnie Rayner officiating.

Spring interment of ashes at Pine Grove Cemetery, Hawk Junction.

Memorial donations made to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) or to the Group Health Centre Trust Fund would be appreciated.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Fritz and the ARCH team for their professional and compassionate care.

Arrangements entrusted to the P.M. Gilmartin Funeral Home, Wawa.