Harry Dyas

Beloved husband for over 73 years to the love of his life, Hilda Ann (predeceased), father of four children: Susan (Danny) Jane, Denise (Paul), and Tom, proud grandfather to 10, great-grandfather to 10, with another on the way, uncle to nieces and nephews and a great friend to so many.

Born in Black Heath Birmingham, England on October 17, 1920. Together, with his mother Edith and older sister Dorothy, 3 year old Harry sailed from Britain to join his father, John Henry, in Oshawa. A few years later a sister Margaret was born.

From an early age and growing up during the depression, Harry showed an aptitude for entrepreneurship by promoting neighbourhood penny wrestling matches, raising pigeons to sell and helping his mother with her business stand at the Lake Ontario boardwalk.

He enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces at 19 years of age, joining the 11th Field Regiment in WWII and served overseas for 5 years and 8 months.

Upon returning to Oshawa, he met Hilda Ann Holtforster in 1946 at the Avalon Dance Pavilion and in 1949 they were married. They enjoyed many great times dancing at the Oshawa Jube, camping, playing sports, and together, with their welcoming spirit, created numerous lifelong friendships including the Goverde family whom they thought of as part of the family. Harry loved entertaining at his home by his pool and many parties were held there over the years.

After going to Ryerson college , working at Alger Press and Prudential Insurance, his entrepreneurial spirit blossomed with businesses such as Butch’s Bar, The Oshawa Raceway, Southern Ontario Food and Freezer Service and even a candy floss and popcorn concession stand serving at outdoor events around the Durham Region.

Our dad had two main loves in his life. His family who he adored and supported always and his community.

Volunteering for community organizations was an extremely important part of his life. He served as president of both the Little NHL and the Kiwanis Club, was involved with NASC hockey and baseball leagues, Oshawa Little Theatre, Simcoe Hall Settlement House food drives, Meals on Wheels and charity bingos to name only a few of his activities, as he was always on go. Harry had a deep love of hockey and could always be found at any time in a hockey arena or supporting a hockey event. In 2012, he received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award in recognition of a lifetime of community service and recently had a street named in his honour in North Oshawa.

As we say goodbye to our dad, we celebrate a life well lived, well loved and a home full of happy memories. A rare gentleman who will truly be missed.

Our family is truly thankful to Clayre Vasquez and Jason Rideout for their compassionate and loving care over the years. We thank all the PSW’s from St. Elizabeth and the Oshawa Lakeridge Hospital 7th and 4th floor teams and doctors who assisted and supported his care.

Visitation will be held Friday September 8, 2023, from 4-8pm, with funeral services Saturday September 9, 2023 at 1:30pm at the Oshawa Funeral Home (846 King Street W Oshawa) with burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Harry’s name to the Oshawa Simcoe Hall Settlement House Food Bank, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, Kiwanis or any charity of your choice.

You can view the ceremony live or on replay at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/79074