Harold "Hal" Vincent MacFarlane

June 28, 1912 – February 28, 2012

MacFarlane, Harold (Hal) Vincent – former leader of the “Hal MacFarlane Orchestra”, passed away peacefully at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 in his 100th year. Loving husband for 73 years of the late Thelma Deloris MacFarlane (nee Monnett). Hal was born in Peterborough, attended Central, Queen Alexandra, and Queen Mary Public Schools. He took piano and violin lessons at the Peterborough Conservatory of Music. He was a graduate of University of Toronto Conservatory of Music, and also attended Peterborough Business College. Hal was a music teacher, entertainer, orchestra conductor and accountant. Hal formed his own orchestra in the late 30’s and it became one of the largest bands in the area during the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s comprising at least 15 musicians. Hal and his Orchestra played big band music for the Peterborough community and surrounding areas for over three decades. On many occasions he and his orchestra played at venues such as the Chemong Pavillion, the Pines, the Brock Ballroom, the Club Aragon, Rock Haven, Peterborough Memorial Centre as well as many other locations. He was a two-time president of the local musicians’ union for ten years. Also, Hal was the organist at the Memorial Centre for the Peterborough Petes for over 10 years. In September 2011, Hal MacFarlane was honoured into the Pathway of Fame with a plaque placed in Del Crary Park. His music and our memories will be cherished forever. A special acknowledgement for the exceptional care given to Hal by his family physician, Dr. David Carr, the Staff at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, and to all his care givers, especially Bonnie, Cindy and Debra. A Celebration of Life in his memory will be held at Comstock Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 356 Rubidge Street, Peterborough, Ontario on Saturday April 21, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Peterborough Humane Society or Lakefield Animal Welfare Shelter (LAWS) would be appreciated. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.comstockfuneralhome.com