Harold Allan Edwards

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Harold Allan Edwards. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Harold was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

Harold was born on March 6, 1948 at the Newmarket Hospital in Newmarket, Ontario. He was the son of Gertrude Edwards (nee Pegg) and Roy Edwards. Harold was raised in Holt (Mount Albert), Ontario. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. Harold was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. He found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Harold's personality throughout his life.

As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, Harold was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, Harold was always tactful. One thing Harold will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, Harold had a number of interests and was an active child. In his spare time he liked playing on the farm, exploring the farm, fishing and fixing fences on the farm.

For Harold, the school routines were never a problem although he generally preferred variety to structure. He seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And he was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Harold was also adept at details. Harold was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was lunch.

There was one thing that all of Harold's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Harold was such a popular person throughout his life. But Harold was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Harold was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Harold was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Harold was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Harold was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Harold made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were the neighbourhood farm friends. Later in life, he became friends with Barb Robinson, Peter Watts, Gord Parr, Phil Dawson, Beth, Julie and Don.

Harold was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call his sentimental and a romantic at heart. His kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around his. Harold cared for what others thought and carried that into his marriage. On December 30, 1977 Harold married Joanne Gail Smith at Northminster United Church in Oshawa, Ontario. Compassionate and devoted, Harold worked hard to make his new life partner happy.

Harmony was important to Harold and he made every effort to maintain it with his family. Harold and Joanne were blessed with two children, one son, Jason, and one daughter Janelle. They were also blessed with two grandchildren, Aidan Clark and Quaid Edwards. Harold was always conscious of the feelings others had. He was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Harold was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. His secret of success in this area was simple: Harold would listen before he would act.

Taking his work seriously came naturally to Harold, and he expected the same from those around him. Harold was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. Harold was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Harold handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” His primary occupation was a labourer at General Motors, neighbourhood handyman and farmer. He was employed for 30 years at General Motors, the past few years as group leader, where he was well remembered as the "shirtless farmer". He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.

A methodical man, Harold enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. His favorite pursuits were collecting tools, sometimes amassing 3 or 4 sets, watching poker, collecting farm equipment, tinkering, house repair and always taking care of his neighbours, building and painting toys, finding a yard sale or Value Village bargain or simply scavenging treasures curbside.

Not only did Harold enjoy traveling, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. He was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. He rarely tired of going back and revisiting his favorite places. Favorite vacations included going to the farm.

Harold was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. Some of his favorites were the many farm dogs. His family was rounded out by the cows on the farm, of which he had a name for each.

Since it was easy for Harold to meet and get to know new people, he quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once he met those new friends, he loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. Since he was practical and cost effective, Harold was ready when that day to retire finally came in March 1, 1999. In retirement, he found new pleasure in clearing trees on the farm and building the man cave in his "dream garage". Even in retirement, Harold stayed in touch with his old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. He was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered him.

Harold passed away on January 30, 2014 at Lakeridge Health Hospital, Oshawa. Harold succumbed to heart failure. He is survived by his wife Joanne, son Jason, daughter Janelle, his grandsons, Aidan and Quiad and his daughter-in-law Alison. Services were held at the Courtice Funeral Chapel on April 5, 2014. Harold was laid to rest at the family farm in Mount Albert, Ontario.

Harold was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Harold was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Harold Allan Edwards.

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EDWARDS, Harold Allan (March 6, 1948 – January 30, 2014) – In loving memory of Harold Allan Edwards who passed away suddenly on Thursday January 30, 2014 at Lakeridge Health Corporation, Oshawa at the age of 65. Predeceased by his parents Roy Edwards and Gertrude Edwards (nee Pegg). Harold (“Farmer”) Edwards, beloved husband of “kind, considerate, thoughtful, loving” wife Joanne Gail Edwards (Smith). Father of Jason Edwards and Janelle Edwards (“Daddy’s little girl”, always). Father-in-law of Alison Clark-Edwards. Loving grandfather (Papa) to Aidan and Quaid. Harold, fondly remembered by G.M. co-workers as “Farmer” retired in March 1999, “thirty and out!” In keeping with his wishes, Harold will be remembered at his “Celebration of Life” on April 5th, 2014 at the COURTICE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1587 Highway 2, Courtice from 2-4 p.m. A special thank you is extended by the family to the attending emergency services for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Harold.