HARRY HALBESMA

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HARRY HALBESMA

May 23, 1934 - December 9, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Harry Halbesma, on the evening of December 9, 2023 at Seven Oaks Hospital, at the age of 89.



Harry is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Shirley, his children Doreen (Jan), Pat (Allan predeceased), Stan (Debbie), Len (Janet), Don (Monica), and Cathy, along with 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brother Ron (Ann), and sister Alice (Arie predeceased).



Harry was predeceased by; his father Stanley, his mother Patricia, brother Andy, sister Halley, and sister Anneke.

Harry was a devote Christian, and this devotion guided his life decisions and set a strong base for his family to grow and be successful.



Harry and his family moved to Canada from the Netherlands in 1953, briefly settling in Homewood, MB, before moving to Winnipeg in 1955. Upon moving to Winnipeg, Harry began his career with Canada Safeway which spanned 30 years and saw him advance to store manager. In the summer of 1985, an opportunity was presented to Harry to start a family grocery business. With the experience and guidance of Harry and Shirley, and utilizing the experience of his children in the food industry, an exciting new chapter started for the family when Harry's Foods opened its doors at 905 Portage Ave. in October 1985. The business grew and thrived over the years, with his sons expanding to own their own stores, and his daughter's immense contributions to ensure the success of his namesake business. Harry was extremely proud of the reputation Harry's Foods had developed over the years, and his children are forever grateful for Dad's vision of an exciting future for his family.



Harry was an avid golfer, and along with Mom they travelled extensively with their trailer looking for yet another golf course to experience. They also enjoyed travelling to many different places around the world and developed great memories and friendships from these adventures. Harry had a restless spirit and loved to travel. He gave Mom and his family many wonderful memories during these explorations.



A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on December 21, 2023, at Covenant Christian Reform Church, 653 Knowles Ave., Winnipeg, MB. Private family viewing will take place before this service at Klassen Funeral Home, 1897 Henderson Hwy., followed by a public viewing at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place before the service at Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery at 4477 Main St., West St. Paul, MB.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to World Renew Canada (WorldRenew.ca)



The family would like to acknowledge the many healthcare professionals that assisted Dad in his final days, as well as the caring compassion he received from his brother Ron and his wife Ann.

Faithful God, we want peace to belong, a place where we can lean on your grace for all we need. Guide us to trust in Jesus and restore us to our home with you.

Tributes: www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 16, 2023, Dec 16, 2023