Anthony Benjamin John Harding

It is with great sorrow we announce the death of our beloved Anthony (Tony) Benjamin John Harding age 67 on April 28th after a brief illness. He is predeceased by parents Peter and Estella and sisters Victoria and Linda (Birk). He leaves behind his loving wife Kerry, two sons Campbell Kelly (Tam) and Griffin Kelly (Rebecca) and three daughters Kelsey (Shawn), Kristen Goodine (Tim) and Melanie (Ryan). He will be greatly missed by his sister Elizabeth Ferris (Donnie), brothers Peter (Kathy), and Laurie (Karen), and parents-in-law Mike and Sharon Currie.

Growing up in the thriving Woodlawn area in Dartmouth between the 60's and 80's meant finding young friends and many adventures. These early years also involved venturing out on the family sailboat, The Water Witch. Over decades he accumulated lie -long connections. It was those adventures and relationships that helped shape Tony's ability to connect with people throughout his life's journey.

Tony graduated from SMU with a Bachelor of Commerce, then earned an MBA at Dalhousie University and later obtained many professional accreditations. He worked at Bank of Nova Scotia before joining RBC Dominion Securities as a financial advisor, developing personal ties with clients while offering sage advice to many over a 39-year career. Compassion and generosity motivated him to give his time and energy to various charities including Big Brothers and Sisters (20 years), Board of Titan Gymnastics (5 years), and Hockey Helps the Homeless.

Tony lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed travelling and he bragged that Kerry was the best travel agent. They made sure to explore a new place every year. His favourite trip was to France, where he was able to stand on the beach at St. Valery where his father bravely rescued Scottish Highlander troops from German gunfire. Closer to home, he loved taking his beloved dogs, Lexi, Bentley, and Ghillie for walks in Point Pleasant Park, skiing, playing hockey year-round, getting in a game of golf whenever he could, and scuba diving. Over the years he spent hours entertaining friends and family on his boat on Porters Lake. Whenever the weather permitted, he cherished rides with Kerry and the dogs in his convertible Mustang.

To say that Tony loved reading was an understatement. He could always be found with a book in hand, several stacked on his night table, with more on bookshelves. He also spent countless hours playing cards with family and friends. He loved to entertain and was the catalyst for family gatherings and social events. In many friend circles, Tony was the glue that connected everyone.

Tony will be greatly missed and fondly remembered for his generosity, his intellect, and his humour.