Today we gather to celebrate a life. The life of one of the greatest, Ronald Harbidge. My granddad.
Words cannot describe the profound impact he had on our lives. He shaped our family, along with Grandmom, who predeceased him in 2018.
My granddad was sensitive and caring. He loved my grandmom, his music and our family. My grandparents married at a young age and he enlisted in the Navy. He spent many days on a navy ship while the love of his life raised 6 kids, my dad being the youngest. He carried photos in his wallet and always had stories of the dances they went to. Giggling with my grandmom as they navigated their way home. After the war he settled in Calgary and worked at SAIT. He had a big infectious smile and always took the chance to tell us that my grandmom flew on a broom at night. How we miss that smile.
My granddad passed away peacefully in his home on November 14th, just a few weeks shy of his 98th birthday. We are so fortunate to have had that many years and would give anything to have a few more.
My granddad was a quiet hero. He came to all our horse shows, always had candy in his breast pocket and “lady bugs” behind our ears. My grandparents told the hospital that they were my parents so they could hold my babies first. He loved Christmas and pretended to love all the plaid shirts he would receive. His signature meal was Shepard’s pie and I wish we could have another bite with him. He was an incredible musician and became known at his assisted living for the concerts. He never missed a birthday, calling us and playing his signature song. He will always be remembered in his Jean jacket, smile on his face and teasing my grandmom.
Although we have to say goodbye Granddad, we know you found Grandmom and she likely was on your case about what took so long.
We love you beyond words. ❤️
