Harry Nelson Handfield, age 95, of Swansea, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 24, 2013 with his devoted and loving daughter “Ginny” by his side. He was the beloved husband of the late Ruth V. (Taylor) Handfield.
Born in Fall River, a son of the late Charles and Jennie (Kimball) Handfield, he lived in Fall River until building a home in Swansea, in 1972. He was a longtime member of Christ Church, and served on the Church Vestry and Property Committee.
He was a graduate of B.M.C. Durfee High School, class of 1935. Harry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1937 and served during World War II aboard the U.S.S. ALGORAB and the U.S.S. YORK TOWN CV-10 “The Fighting Lady.” He remained in the Naval Reserve until he was called to duty during the Korean War. In recognition of his honorable service he retired from the United States Navy in 1976.
A Master Electrician for Crawford Electric, he later owned and operated Handfield Electric. At the time of his retirement, in 1976, he was the Foreman of Electricians at Rhode Island Hospital.
Harry was a Mason of several lodges, including the Scottish Rite and the Mt. Hope Lodge AF & AM, for 69 years and the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts AF & AM for 61 years. He was also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Handfield was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
Always an active man, Harry’s greatest legacy is his never-ending love and devotion to his family.
He is survived by his daughter; Virginia A. “Ginny” Handfield of Swansea and several nieces and nephews. Harry was predeceased by his brother, Charles Handfield and his sister, Hazel (Handfield) Mills.
His Funeral will be held on Friday, August 2, 2013 at 11:00AM in the WARING-SULLIVAN HOME OF MEMORIAL TRIBUTE at BIRCHCREST, 189 Gardners Neck Rd., Swansea. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours prior to his service from 10:00 to 11:00AM. Kindly omit flowers. Contributions in his honor may be made to Clifton Hospice Services, 391, Hanover St. Fall River, MA 02720. PRIVATE BURIAL WITH MILITARY HONORS.
His daughter would like to thank the entire staff of Clifton Hospice for their kindness, compassion and excellent care given to her father. Ginny also wishes to convey her sincere gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Warren Wood, for his constant encouragement and moral support throughout the years.
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