DYAS, Harry Thomas -
October 17, 1920 - September 03, 2023
On September 3, 2023, in his 103rd year, surrounded by his loving family, Thomas Harry Dyas passed away peacefully in Oshawa.
Beloved husband for over 73 years to the love of his life, Hilda Ann (predeceased), father of four: Susan (Danny) Jane, Denise (Paul), and Tom, proud grandfather to 10, great-grandfather to 10 with another on the way, nieces and nephews and a friend to so many.
Born in Black Heath Birmingham, England on October 17, 1920. Together with his mother Edith and older sister Dorothy, 3 year old Harry joined his father, John Henry, in Oshawa.
A few years later a sister Margaret was born.
From an early age growing up in the depression he showed an aptitude for entrepreneurship by promoting neighbourhood wrestling matches, raising pigeons and helping his mother with her concession stand at the Lake Ontario boardwalk.
He enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces at 19 joining the 11th Field Regiment in WWII and served overseas for 5 years 8 months.
Upon returning to Oshawa, he met Hilda Ann Holtforster in 1946 at the Avalon Dance Pavilion and in 1949 they were married. They enjoyed many great times dancing at the Oshawa Jube and together with their welcoming spirit created many lifelong friendships including the Goverde family whom they thought of as part of his family. Harry loved entertaining at his home by his pool and many parties were held there over the years.
After going to Ryerson College, working at Alger Press and Prudential Insurance, his entrepreneurial spirit blossomed with businesses such as Butch’s Bar,
The Oshawa Raceway, Southern Ontario Food and Freezer Service and even a candy floss and popcorn concession stand serving at outdoor events around the Durham Region region.
Our dad had two main loves in his life. His family who he adored and supported always and his community.
Volunteering for community organizations was an extremely important part of his life.
He served as president of both the Little NHL and the Kiwanis Club. Involved with NASC hockey and baseball leagues, Oshawa Little Theatre, Simcoe Hall Settlement House food drives, Meals on Wheels and charity bingos to name only a few as he was always on go.
In 2012, he received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award in recognition of a lifetime of community service and recently had a street named in his honour in North Oshawa.
As we say goodbye to our dad, we celebrate a life well lived, well loved and a home full of happy memories. A true gentleman who will truly be missed.
Our family is truly thankful to Clayre Vasquez and Jason Rideout for their compassionate and loving care over the years.
Visitation will be held Friday September 8, 2023, from 4-8pm, with funeral services Saturday September 9, 2023 at 1:30pm at the OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME (846 King Street W Oshawa) . Interment Resurrection Cemetery.
Online condolences can be made at www.oshawafuneralhome.com .
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Harry’s name to the Simcoe Hall Settlement House Food Bank, the Royal Canadian Legion BR. 43, Kiwanis or any charity of your choice.
OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME will webcast the funeral ceremony of Harry Dyas on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 1:14 PM EDT to 2:15 PM EDT .
You can view the ceremony live or on replay at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/79074 .
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