HAROLD REGINALD SYRETT

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HAROLD REGINALD SYRETT Flight Lieutenant R.C.A.F., CD, Retd April 22, 1921 - March 31, 2002 Harold Reginald Syrett, son of the late Frederick Nelson Syrett and Alberta Syrett (nee Davison), died March 31, 2002 with his family by his side. Harold was born in Brantford, ON. His family moved to Michigan, U.S.A. in 1924. Returning to Canada in 1942 he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.). He trained as navigator in London, ON where he met Winnifred Hill, and they married in 1944. Harold flew extensively, during the war with R.A.F. Ferry Command and Transport Command. Discharged by choice he finished his university education at McGill, graduating in 1948. He taught football at Lachine High School, McGill University and Loyola College in Quebec. Re-enlisting in the R.C.A.F. in 1951 and after completing courses in navigation at Central Navigation School Summerside PEI, he was posted to Air Observers School No. 2 in Winnipeg to train NATO cadets. He continued his work for NATO in England, flying out of Langar. He returned to Winnipeg in 1959 and retired from the Air Force in 1964. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Harold taught in the Transcona Springfield School Division, Interlake School Division and the Evergreen School Division, ending his teaching career in the late 1970s. He and his family moved in 1965 to the farm north of Argyle, MB where he resided until his death. During his years on the farm and with the help of his family he raised sheep and Black Angus cattle. His passion for gardening culminated in the vineyard he lovingly developed. He spent many hours nurturing his grapes and providing the fruit for his family and friends. His passion for wildlife led to the development of bird feeding stations and the planting of hundreds of trees. He continued to expand his knowledge and interests in many areas. At the age of 72 he returned to painting. Travelling the Interlake he took many photos capturing the sights and colours of them on canvass, with the use of water colours and pastels. His work won many awards. Harold donated painting to charities, and he gave to his family the pictures he painted for and of them. Harold was a well-travelled man with many talents and interests; an avid reader and writer; working hard for the benefit of family and friends. He continued to offer support and guidance to his children and grandchildren throughout his life. His free time was spent attending the many activities of his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Winnifred; four children, Janice Husak (Bill), Stuart (Elaine), Hilary Versavel (Luc), Christopher (Barb) eight grandsons and one granddaughter. His brother Jack (Audrey) of British Columbia; sister-in-law Ruth Syrett of Florida; aunts, Iola and Grace of Ontario; many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Shirley, brother George, both of Michigan, and nephew Randy of British Columbia. The family would like to thank his many friends and neighbours, too many to mention; for their support during the past few months while Harold was ill. As per his request there will be no funeral or memorial. His ashes will be sprinkled on the land he loved and his family will celebrate his life as he requested.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 03, 2002