John Henry McCaughey

McCAUGHEY, John Henry "Harry" - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Harry McCaughey on Friday, May 1, 2020 in his 77th year. Harry was raised in Limavady, Northern Ireland by his parents John and Margaret (nee Hunter) McCaughey. Harry was the beloved husband of the late Stephanie McCaughey (nee Harsant) (2016). Loving father of Tara McCaughey (Wayne Bennett) of Guelph and Bryce McCaughey of Victoria, BC. Proud Grandad to Connor and Keira Bennett.

Harry graduated from Queen’s University, Belfast in 1966 and then made the journey to Canada to complete both his M.A. and his Ph.D. at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario where he met his beloved wife Stephanie. He joined the Faculty at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario in 1971 where he had a full career teaching courses in climate change, microclimatology and data management and leading in his field of research in the area of boundary layer climatology.

In recent years, some of his happiest moments were spending time at the cottage with the family enjoying good food, fine red wine or a great Irish whiskey. He loved going on walks with his faithful canine companion Molly, sitting with his feline friend Shadow or casting a line. He was an avid reader of mystery and spy thrillers and was passionate about politics and staying informed on current events on both the national and international stages.

He was deeply loved, well liked and highly respected by all who had the good fortune of knowing and spending time with him. He was an excellent teacher and mentor with a seemingly endless curiosity and passion for learning and he always enjoyed figuring out how to fix things himself. A very kind and patient man with a soft heart, he also had a great and often playful sense of humour. He loved sharing funny stories or anecdotes with family and friends and he will always be fondly remembered for his infectious laugh and intelligent wit.

The family extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Kiran Virik of Kingston General Hospital, Dr. Cary Shafir of Guelph General Hospital, Louise from Bayshore and the amazing team at Hospice Wellington for their care and compassion. In accordance with Harry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and the family will gather for a private ceremony. As expressions of sympathy and in recognition of Harry’s fondness of animals, donations may be made to the Ontario SPCA or to Hospice Wellington. Online donations and condolences can be made at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com.