Harold Hall Sawler

Harold Hall Sawler, age 94, of Dartmouth passed away December 12, 2011. Born in Dartmouth in 1917, he was the son of the late Percy and Jean (Ogilvie) Sawler and is the last surviving member of his immediate family. Having first attended Dartmouth town schools and Halifax County Academy, Harold graduated from Dalhousie University and Harvard University with a Masters of Arts and a Masters of Education degrees respectively. Harold taught in the Dartmouth schools system for over forty-five years. He was the Principal of Notting Park and Park Schools before becoming the inaugural Principal of Bicentennial School from 1951 until his retirement in 1982. Harold was an active member of Emmanuel Anglican Church, serving as organist and choir-master; the last few years, he was a member of Christ Church. He was very involved with the Nova Scotia Teachers Union and the Home and School Association. He was awarded with the Canadian Centennial Medal honouring Canadians who have provided valuable service to their country. An avid gardener, Harold drew great joy from cultivating a yard full of vegetables and flowers. Following his retirement from teaching, Harold and his wife wintered in Florida and Arizona. He loved to travel, and visited the Caribbean many times, along with trips to Britain, Europe, Scandinavia, Greece, Australia, New Zealand, China, Thailand, and Singapore. Although he suffered a major stroke twelve years ago, Harold was able to continue his love of travel. Harold was very dedicated to both his immediate and extended family and is survived by his devoted wife Kathleen (Hardy) and three sons of whom he was especially proud: John (Viive), Toronto; James, Dartmouth; and Robert (Sherri), Ottawa. Also surviving are his four adored grandchildren - Owen, Olivia, Nicola and Tessa - and a large number of nieces and nephews. Harold is predeceased by his three brothers - Owen, Percy and Reginald - and three sisters - Katherine Sorrentino, Alice Filie, and Myrtle Jean Munson. Visitation will be held at Mattatall's Funeral Home on Portland St. in Dartmouth on Thursday, December 15 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm . A memorial service will be held at Christ Church, Ochterloney St on Friday, December 16 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to your favourite charity.