HARALDUR PALSSON

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HARALDUR PALSSON On Thursday, September 5, 2002, Haraldur Palsson passed away at the Arborg and District Health Centre, at the age of 83 years. He was predeceased by his parents, Thorgrimur and Gudrun; his siblings, Sigrun (1991), Helgi (1995) and Soley (1997) brothers-in-law, Roy (1997) and Baldur (2002) and nieces, Barbara (1990) and Cheryl (1999). He leaves to mourn his passing, brothers, Palmi and Steini (Inga) sister Inga Danielson; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was born at Grenihlid on May 24, 1919 where he resided all his life. He attended grades 1-8 at Island School. He operated a small mixed farm in the beginning, working along with his brothers, developing it into a large cattle-grain operation raising prize-winning Herefords who only understood Icelandic. He also went fishing in the early years in the summer and winter on Lake Winnipeg and cut pulp and logged in both Manitoba and Ontario. He also hauled fish from Lake Manitoba in the winters to Winnipeg. Haraldur was a man who was attached to the land: it was a part of his soul. He loved horses and enjoyed a special bond with them. He retired from farming in 1995. Haraldur was a homebody spending most of his time on the farm - only being convinced to travel on a few occasions. He travelled to New York with brother Steini, cousin Pall and friend Ari Johnson in 1950. He also travelled to Barbados with sister Soley and Roy in the 80s, as well as his yearly trip to Winnipeg to celebrate his nephew Russells birthday. He had many special memories of his travels. Haraldur was a man of quiet dignity, a neighbour and friend who was always ready to lend a hand or give his support to those who needed it. He always spent Christmas, birthdays and holidays with his brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and even his great-great-nieces and nephew. He loved his family and was such a "special uncle" where no occasion was complete without his presence. He was loved by all who knew him and will be truly missed. Haraldur was proud of his Icelandic heritage and played a significant role in generously supporting the "Valuing Icelandic Presence Campaign." He was very fluent in the Icelandic language and really enjoyed speaking Icelandic with family and friends. He was a lover of music with a wide variety of CDs including opera, classical, Celtic and Icelandic. He was also an avid reader, gaining a wide expanse of knowledge in all areas. He enjoyed reading nonfiction at first, then also fiction as well. It was Haraldurs wish to have no formal church service. Cremation has taken place and there will be a short graveside gathering at the Arborg East (Haga) Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13. Relatives and close friends are invited to attend. If friends so desire, donations in Haraldurs memory may be made to the Arborg and District Health Centre, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0, or The Canadian Cancer Society, Manitoba Division, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 9Z9. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2002