HAROLD M. BLACK

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HAROLD M. BLACK

Harold passed away November 16th, 2023, at the age of 100 years.



He is survived by his dear wife June. He was a loving father to his daughters Linda, Diana, and Debra, and also to June’s children, Patty, Michael, and David (Jenny). He valued his special relationships with his many nieces and nephews, with brother-in-law Neill (Joyce), and his many loyal and lifelong friends."



He was predeceased by his first wife Annette, their daughter Maxann, and his son-in-law Shachar.



He was a proud grandpa to Shiri (Ron), Sa'ar (Sarit), Nir (Leigh), Jordan (Nikki), Rhonda, Michael (Erika), Aubrey and Alex; and to Debbie (Bill), Elizabeth, Sam, and Max (Kaitlyn; and a proud great-grandpa to Leanne, Arad, Elah, Raz, Dor, Erez, Eden, Tom, and Desmond, Quin, Jake, Sophie, and Sam.



He was born February 15, 1923, to Lottie and David Black. The family owned the General Store in Brunkild Manitoba, which was at the heart of the farming community. Harold was the youngest of six children and was predeceased by sisters, Cecilia, Edith, Rosalie, Marian, and brother Sam.



After high school, at the age of 16 years, Harold moved to Toronto to begin his studies at the School of Optometry. In 1942 he left his studies to enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force during The Second World War. He trained as a pilot at CFB in Trenton, Ontario. The character-building qualities instilled in him during his military training stayed with him throughout his lifetime. After graduating in 1947 he returned to Winnipeg to begin his career as an optometrist.



He was a dedicated eye care professional, and built a successful practice which spanned more than 60 years, until his retirement at the age of 84.



Harold was passionate about his physical and mental well being. He remained fit and active throughout his lifetime with weight lifting, walking, bike riding, and golfing well into his 90s. Harold maintained a daily ritual of exercise well into his 100th year. His motto was "Keep Moving!"



Harold was a gentleman, able to touch the hearts of everyone he encountered with his kindness and humour. He had an innate ability to put people at ease with his full smile and positive energy. His generosity in support of community and projects dear to his heart have created a lasting legacy.



He was truly a man of integrity. Throughout his life he could always be depended upon for his sound advice, honesty, encouragement, love and support. His hundred years was a blessing.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 23, 2023, Dec 23, 2023