September 29, 1921 – November 10, 2014
Aylward, Henry Albert – Passed away peacefully in his 94th year at St. Joseph’s Villa. Beloved husband and soul mate of Joyce (nee Easton) for 66 years. Will be sadly missed and forever remembered by loving children, Barbara William (Elko), Gary Aylward (Jill), and Katharine Miya, and grandchildren, Chelsea, Thaddeus and Samantha (predeceased), and Renee William, and great grandchild, Callum. He was a dedicated Canada Post letter carrier for 32 years. But he loved & shared his gift of music throughout his life. During his overseas military service in World War II , he was a gunner in the tank corps, and the solo trumpet player for the “4” Repatriation Band; bringing joy and respite to countless soldiers stationed in Britain. Harry was a member of many area military bands including the Arygle & Sutherland Highlanders, the R.H.L.I Band, The H.M.C.S. Star band, Hindukush Grotto, and Lorne Scots Military Band. He was most proud to be handed the baton to conduct The Hamilton Frontiersman Band for several years. He was a well known area musician playing nightly in the “hot spots” of Hamilton. He was a life member of the Hamilton Musicians Guild. He was also a fifty year member of St. Columba Presbyterian Church, serving as an elder, on the Board of Managers, and in the choir, and most recently a member of Knox Presbyterian Church in Dundas. His last few years he sang in the Thursday Afternoon Singers. Special heartfelt thank you to the staff of St. Joseph’s Villa, Willow Grove, and the many dear friends and relatives who supported Harry and Joyce throughout the years. Friends will be received by the family on Thursday afternoon from 1 until the Service for Henry at 2 o’clock at KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 23 Melville Street, Dundas. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
To Joyce and family
I am so sorry to hear of Harry’s death. He was a great man. I think of the many years we spent together on the Board and in the Choir. We had many joyous times in the Choir. My greatest memory of the choir is when he asked the band he was playing with to help us put the APOSTLE muscial. It was fantastic. I still remember feeling like I was floating on air when we finished. We had many great moments together – working to the glory of our Lord.
May God bless the entire family at this most difficult time
Dear Barb and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy at the loss of your father. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you comfort and strength during this difficult time. Sincerely, Emma Duncan, Minister at Knox Burlington
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Aylward. it was truly a joy growing up on Bell Ave and having the Aylward clan as neighbours. The fire works-music-skating- sand box and generally sharing a great time. You are all in my thoughts.
Dear Barb, Gary, Kathy and “Mrs. Aylward”
Many decades ago, we (the Cremasco’s) were next door neighbours with the Aylwards. Barb, you and I would spend hours chatting in “the window” as we passed through our childhood and teen years. I remember the music in your home, your lovely family, and the good humour that was always present in your household. So many fond memories of Harry – smiling and funny and always welcoming. Time passes and life changes, but the memories enrich life. Hope you’re all doing well. xo
I just came across this information on the loss of your father, Kathy and Gary. I have fond memories of him. He was a very fine man.
With much sympathy,
John Matthews