Harold Donnell

We regretfully announce the passing of Harold “Harry” Donnell on September 2, 2021 at the Arbour Creek Care Centre in Hamilton, Ontario in his 91st year. Harold was born on December 13, 1930 in Leamington, Ontario, the only child of Elizabeth O’Donnell. “Aunt Lizzie” had immigrated to Canada from Bradford, England three years previously with her older sister, Theresa.

The two sisters both found work at the Heinz plant in Leamington and set up a household that included Theresa’s husband, Bert Slaats and their children, Albert and Marie. As a result, the three kids were raised as siblings, forging a bond that would last the remainder of their lives. Alas, Harold was the last surviving member of that generation.

When Albert married Kathryn Switzer and moved to Hamilton in the mid-fifties, Harold would soon follow, gaining employment at the Ford Plant in Oakville where he would work until taking early retirement at the age of 58.

Always the dutiful son, Harold arranged to have his mother move in with him after she retired from Heinz, as he never married. As a result, “Cousin Harold” and “Aunt Lizzie” would become part of the ever-expanding Slaats family (3 children over the years), with both being present for all special occasions.

Always a fiercely independent guy, Harold found the onset of Alzheimer’s to be particularly challenging, particularly when he had to relinquish his driver’s license. Eventually, he had to sell his Condo and move into assisted living. Unfortunately, this meant the end to his beloved weekly Euchre games at the Legion.

Harry was unique, and will be greatly missed by his Slaats cousins Bill (Janie), Tim (Alison) and Sandra and their children. Many thanks to the caring staff at the Arbour Creek Care Centre for their support.

In compliance with his wishes, no service will be held.

RIP Cousin Harold