Obituary of Harold Lester Melendy

On May 8, 2023, I said goodbye to my devoted husband, our children said goodbye to their wonderful father and our grandchildren said goodbye to their incredible grandfather. What were inevitably sad and difficult circumstances for us, resulted in an uplifting and memorable occasion. With this loss, our lives became enriched because of the outpouring of support from our extended family, friends and church family; and this kindness has allowed us to appreciate each of you even more. Kindness in giving creates love! Thank you all, for being who you are.  Although you all are part of our big wonderful family, each bit of support, your generosity, time and dedication that you so willing gave was not lost amongst the confusion of Harold’s passing. Your warmth, thoughts and concerns have provided our family with another reason to appreciate you and the wonderful world that we are all so fortunate to live in.  We cannot list the names of everyone and all the wonderful things that you have done for us over the last months; the list would be too long.  

To everyone who sent cards or made and continue to make donations to The Salvation Army Citadel or other organizations on Harold’s behalf, phoned, texted, messaged, visited our home and those that brought food to our home, our sincerest thanks.  For your prayers, which were reassuring and soothing to us; we are blessed!    

To Majors Wilbert and Bertha Abbott, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your gentleness, understanding, and extraordinary kindness and humour that put dignity to the Celebration of the Life Jesus Gave to Harold.  Before Harold’s passing you provided him with spiritual guidance and devotion that he requested for his journey.  We too, were soothed by your prayers.  You are an inspiration and a blessing to us.     

To the Salvation Army band members, organist and the worship team for the music and songs that were perfect in every way; thank you so much for helping to make Harold’s service very special.  The beautiful music was stunning and made what was inevitably a sad and difficult occasion, uplifting and memorable. To the organizer of the overhead system, thank you for your generosity, time and dedication.  This couldn’t have been as beautiful as it was without your involvement.  

We want to make special mention of the reception arranged by the wonderful Home League ladies after Harold’s Celebration of Life.   We did not have to worry about this, therefore while the words “thank-you” are the carriers of our thoughts; in our hearts, please know that your ministry has been a blessing with helping us through this difficult time.   

To Harold’s bible study group and his Friday dart night friends, “chance made us neighbours; love made us friends”. Harold was truly grateful for the laughter, fellowship and kinship he shared with his friends.  With you being there for him, it made it was easier for us.  It was your unconditional love; devotion and time that made it possible for Harold to endure the bad days and enjoy the good.  

To the staff at Fillatres for ensuring Harold’s final wishes were made possible and with special mention the kindness and thoughtfulness of Ashley Brace as well as Rodney McGinn; thank you so much for helping us through the process.  

For the 63 years as man and wife, and the years our children and grandchildren were given, we give thanks and praise to our Lord God and Saviour. Thank you for Harold’s life and his heart. Thank you for the love he had for us.   

In Jesus’ name, AMEN. 

Very sincerely, Bride Melendy and Family

Harold Lester Melendy

November 23, 1935 – May 8, 2023

After a courageous battle with occupational pulmonary fibrosis,it is with profound sadness that the family of Harold Lester Melendy, announce that he has concluded his well lived life with his passing from his earthly life to eternal life in his 87th year, at Western Health’s Palliative Care unit, surrounded by his family on May 8, 2023.

Harold is survived not only by his devoted and loving wife Bride of 63 years, but also his 3 children; Tony (Denise),Joanne (Rob Flynn), Todd; and his 4 cherished grandchildren; Jennifer (Chris Lake), Justin (Courtney Fisher), Tonya, Christina (Evan Fisher).  He also leaves 5 step-grandchildren; James (Michelle), Andrew (Becca), Michael (Maren), Emily (Julia), Angelina; and his 4 step-great-grandchildren; Bowen, Joshua, Kylea and Ryan. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters; Eva (Bernard Mills), Gordon Melendy, Joan (Herbert MacDonald); his brother-in-law Wallace (Juanita) Warren; as well as  a large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.  Harold was predeceased by his parents Maxwell and Irene Melendy, father and mother-in-law Esau and Violet Warren, his brother and sister-in-law Clyde and Goldie Melendy, nephew Barry Melendy, his best friend Bud Corbin, as well as multiple other close friends, and relatives.

Throughout our sorrow our family sends a special thank you to all who came to visit and helped care for Harold at home. We would like to especially thank Dr. Brent Thistle and his secretary Colleen, for their ongoing compassion and exemplary care over the years. For as long as possible, Harold wanted to be at home surrounded by his family and friends. This could not have been possible without the kindness of: the Community Health Support team of nurses; social workers; physiotherapist; occupational therapist; respiratory therapist; his Palliative Care team, namely Michelle King and Dr. K. Lafferty; the compassionate nurses on the Palliative Care unit; the dedicated Walmart Pharmacy team; as well as Majors Wilbert & Bertha Abbott, for many spiritual visits during his illness. We sincerely acknowledge the wonderful care provided by his home care workers, Jordan, Wavey & Stephen. 

In respecting Harold's wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of Harold's life and funeral service, will take place at The Salvation Army Citadel, 36 Clarence Street, Corner Brook, NL, on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 2 pm. Majors Wilbert & Bertha Abbott, will be officiating.  Interment to follow at a  later date. A reception will be held after Harold’s funeral, downstairs at the church. All are welcome to attend.

At Harold’s request, please no flowers.  As an expression of sympathy, a memorial donation in Harold’s memory may be made to The Salvation Army Citadel, 36 Clarence Street, Corner Brook, NL.

Our family asks that you leave a message of condolence or a memory about Harold, and to please sign the online guestbook on Fillatres website. These are the memories we want to keep with us in our hearts.