Harry Elder Gresswell
18 September 1918 – 5 August 2014
Beloved Dad and Loving Grampy

Harry was born in Toronto at the end of the Great War, to an English immigrant father, George, and a gentle farmer’s daughter, Tess (nee Elder). Harry spent many happy childhood summers at the Elder family farm. Harry helped to support his family during the Great Depression, and then volunteered to fight in World War II as a scout in France, the Netherlands, and Italy, and was decorated. During peacetime, Harry re-enlisted and served in the Black Watch, rising from Private to the rank of Sergeant Major. Upon retirement from the army at age 50, Harry returned to school, attending St. F. X. and becoming an adult education instructor at Park Street School. He taught English and life skills, and eventually became Head Instructor.

Harry was passionate about reading and always had stacks of books in his home. He also loved his garden, the roses in particular. Harry had a great interest in watching and feeding birds; he even had a soft spot for the pigeons and crows. He had a wonderful sense of humour that lit up a room. He was a Toronto boy at heart, and cheered on the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays his whole life. He was a warm, dependable, loving man.

Harry’s lively spirit will be deeply missed by his wife, Betty, and four children, Harleen, Gordon, Geraldine, and David. He was dearly loved by his grandchildren, Robert, Kimberley, Fabian, Michelle, Danielle, Lisa, Melanie and Colin, and his great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Irene.

Harry was surrounded by family and filled with calm and love when he passed from this world. His last days were greatly eased by the kindness of the fourth floor nursing staff of the Aberdeen Hospital, and his family is very grateful to them. Harry’s remains will be interred at Heatherdale Memorial Gardens, with the birds and roses.