Herbert Thomas Harrington

Herbert Thomas Harrington, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away at NRGH on December 17th, 2025 with his family by his side. There are many wonderful words to describe our father, and we were truly blessed to have him in our lives.

Dad was born in Princeton BC to Herbert and May Harrington on March 28th, 1940. He was one of six children - a cherished brother of Ann, Margie, Lorraine, Fred and Lon. Dad would frequently speak of wonderful memories of childhood in the BC interior. After finishing high school, he attended UBC obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree and continued at SFU for his diploma in education. He then moved to Nanaimo where he started his lengthy teaching career, initially teaching grade 7. He returned to school to obtain his Master of Education degree at the University of Victoria, and for the rest of his career taught English as a Second Language.

He met our mum (Wendie, his wife of 48 years) in 1975 while curling. They were married in 1977 at Brechin United Church. Michael and Jennifer were born in the years that followed. Dad loved family life and spending time together. Holidays (particularly Christmas) were cherished by all, as were summer vacations spent camping. He loved annual trips to the interior where we were able to enjoy amazing visits with his siblings and their families.

Dad kept busy in the garden, where his talents led to many fruitful harvests. He was a skilled individual who was able to fix so many things (completing numerous home renovations, working on rebuilding a 1947 Ford two door). Dad and mum were avid square dancers, a passion they both enjoyed up to the present day. A music lover, dad learned to play the guitar after retirement. Dad loved a good book and watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune with mum. They enjoyed traveling, going on numerous cruises and international getaways. In recent years, they adored visits with their grandchildren in Winnipeg.

Dad was thrilled as our family expanded. His smile lit up the room as Jennifer married Vlad. He was delighted to become a grandfather to his two sweethearts, Valentyna (his "pretty girl") and Mykola (his "big boy"). Excitement does not accurately capture the joy he experienced as Michael became engaged to Kari, and as they planned their upcoming nuptials.

Mum is truly the love of our dad's life. Their love for each other is beyond special and is something most can only dream of. Together for 50 years, as constant sources of support, comfort and joy for one another.

We never wanted to say goodbye to our dad, and we will carry him with us always. Dad taught us so many lessons in life, perhaps greatest of all was the ability to love and have empathy. The world would be a better place with more Herbs in it. Dad was predeceased by his dear sisters (Ann, Lorraine) and their spouses, as well as his beloved niece (Rene) and nephews (Glen, Brian). Lovingly remembered by Wendie, Jennifer (Vlad), Michael (Kari), Valentyna, Mykola, his siblings, nieces and nephews, as well as many friends.

We are tremendously grateful for the care dad received from Dr. Carson (you are one of a kind!) and the Kidney Care Clinic team, as well as the nurses and staff of the 1st floor, ICU and the High Acuity Unit at NRGH. We are very appreciative of Dr. Stecy's compassion and guidance in dad's final days. Additionally, heartfelt thanks are sent to Mercedes (RN) who was there for the final part of dad's journey and helped ensure his comfort.

A service will be held to honour our amazing father on January 10th at 2pm at First Memorial Funeral Services (1720 Bowen Road). A reception will follow at The Royal Canadian Legion (1630 East Wellington Road). In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be directed towards the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Our family would like to invite anyone unable to attend the service to join us through the following livestream link: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/118649

The recording will be available for 90 days after the service.