Harold Joseph Kabatay

We the family of Harold Joseph Kabatay of the Muskrat Clan sadly announce the sudden passing of our brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather, godfather, uncle, nephew and cousin on March 30, 2026, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Harry was 73 years old and lived his entire life in Membertou. He will be remembered for his kindness, his great sense of humour and his love for all his family and the great respect he had for his friends and acquaintances. Harry had many passions; he enjoyed fishing, sports and was a San Jose Sharks fan, he enjoyed travelling and visiting his family in Ontario, especially his granddaughter and his great grandchildren. They were his pride and joy and spoke of them with a full heart and compassion. Harry was a traditional man and was also a very private man. He was a powwow dancer who took pride in his culture and was always willing to share his knowledge in a good way. Harry worked for the public works department in Membertou for many years and always expressed his love for his job and serving his community. Harry will also be remembered for his generosity. He gave freely without asking for anything in return. He had a good heart and loved everyone. We will miss him forever, but he always said, he will travel with the elements that give life to the people. When you light a fire, when you see the stars and the moon, when you see the sun rising, when you feel the wind and when you touch the water, and walk through the forest, Harry said he will be there with us all.

Harry is survived by his siblings, Irene, Edna and Edward John (Carol), his daughter, Rhonda, his son, Peter, his granddaughter, Victoria (Jayden) and his great grandchildren, Garnet, Rin, Athena and Games. He is also survived by his Aunt Agnes in Ontario.

His nephews and their partners, Vance (Doreen), Chad, Peter, Chance, Alfred Jr., Bobby, Chris, Brent, Edwin Jr. and Edward James. His nieces, Cindy and Karen, Godson, Sonny. He also leaves behind numerous grand nieces, grand nephews and cousins and a very large extended family here in Cape Breton and in Ontario. He leaves behind his friends, Bella and Eleanor and many other friends that he always spoke of in a good way.

Harry was predeceased by his parents, Edward John Kabatay Sr. and Theresa Kabatay (Doucette) his brothers; Peter, Edwin, Alfred and an infant brother, George. His son, Dwayne, numerous uncles, and aunts and many good friends.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the doctors, the nurses, the EMT’s and all the medical staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their valiant efforts to help Harry. The kindness and caring that we witnessed is beyond measure.

We would also like to thank the Chief and Council of Membertou, Edie Christmas, Jeff Ward, Joan Denny and the entire Social Services Department, the Environmental Services Staff, the Firekeepers, the Pallbearers, the Membertou Public Works Department and all the community members and friends that came out to support the family as we navigated the sudden loss of our loved one. The kindness of the entire community gives our family the strength to move forward in a positive way and the compassion of the people helps the journey of loss much easier to bear. If we have missed anyone, please know that we are eternally grateful to you all.

Visitation will take place starting at 7pm on Monday, April 6 at 32 Ruth Christmas Awti, Membertou and continuing until the Funeral Mass which will take place at 11:00am on Wednesday, April 8 at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, 40 Cabot St., Sydney with Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting twcurry.com. Internment in Membertou Memorial Gardens and a Salite at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre will take place immediately following the Mass.