Harry's ship has sailed.
This wonderful man was loved by so many, respected by so many, and inspired so many.
Harry played many roles. To family, he was a husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa and uncle. He was born, and grew up, in Vancouver. His career along the west coast of British Columbia led him from working on tugboats, to ship's Captain, then B.C. Coast Pilot and President of the BC Coast Pilots' Association. A very social person, Dad spent many years participating in activities and fundraising with the community charitable group of Van Zor Grotto.
Harry was predeceased by his loving wife, Josey (nee Stedham).
His family includes his three daughters, Susan, Sandra (Peter), and Sydney (Ron). We are also known as the '3 SEAs'. Less concerned about choosing names for his children, he just insisted their initials reflected his career on the water. So 'Harry'! We remain proud of that connection to him.
We three will be focusing on celebrating his life with his six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, partners, extended family and loving friend, Joyce.
Sadly, he is gone. Happily, we were there as he concluded his journey. Hands held and feelings shared.
Thankful for the time we had together, Dad. Thankful for you.
October 2nd, 2024
Harry was always such a friendly and kind soul. He was interested in what Alva was doing and where he was sailing. As a matter of fact he happened to be back east when Alva passed his masters. He made sure he had an appropriate gift. ( it might have come in a bottle)
Both he and Josie always kept in touch and kept up on our family by way of Boyd and Carole.
I am sure Boyd and him are telling sailing stories now.
We are sending love to you all.
October 1st, 2024
Thanks, Linda and Liz. Yes, he taught alot of my friends to keep their elbows off the table! LOL.
There will be a Celebration of Dad's Life but we haven't set the date for it yet. We will post it here, and on my Facebook page, (sydbosel) when we have that figured out. Just doing this process was so sad for us. We can't imagine having to chat with a bunch of people about Dad just yet.
We are all really missing him and prefer to just sit with that for a bit.
October 1st, 2024
Dear Sue, Sandy and Syd,
I hope that as time passes you will be able to remember all the funny moments of your lives with Harry and Josey. They were both very warm, friendly and welcoming people . . . and I had never known a clown before I met your Dad! They both touched many lives.
Love to all, Liz
September 30th, 2024
I met Captain Allen when I was just 5 and one of the few lessons that he taught me was respecting the chain of command, it has served me well in my career. And never put your elbows on the table when having dinner, I learned that one the hard way and to this day elbows are off the table. Thank you Captain Allen 💙
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