Obituary of Harold Otty McQuinn

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved father Harold McQuinn of Rothesay, devoted and loving husband of the late Bernice (Stack) McQuinn, that occurred at the Saint John Regional Hospital on June 22, 2011 of old age. Harold was the fourth of six sons of the late Harry and Stella (Yoemans) McQuinn. He is lovingly remembered by his children Patrick, Kevin, Maureen, Brendan, Maria and Ralph, his three grandsons Alexander, Nicholas and Michael; one great grandson Liam; brother, Eldon (Helen); step-brother, Harry and step-sister, Dorothy (Jack) He was predeceased by his wife, parents and three brothers: Russell, Ken and Murray. Born in Sussex, New Brunswick on April 5, 1920, Harold grew up mainly in Saint John although he spent his happiest years of his youth in the countryside around Hampton, Norton and Penobsquis. A graduate of Saint John Regional High School, he served overseas with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War. After the war he was employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs until his retirement in 1975. For many years an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion, he served several terms on the executive of Branch Number 58 (Kennebecasis Branch). He was also an active member of the local co-operative organization. Following his retirement he found tremendous enjoyment and a sense of renewal by working as a volunteer with the New Brunswick Museum. Throughout Harold’s life he found great personal satisfaction as an artist. Although largely self-taught, he was comfortable working not only with oils and canvas but with wood and clay. His home was filled with his paintings and sculptures. Late in life he sought new challenges by learning to play the violin and for a time was a member of an amateur string quartet. He also worked hard to develop his skills as a write and became a published contributor on topics of local history. Our memory of Harold’s ready smile, coupled with that ever-present sparkle in his eye, will serve as a lasting testimony to a kind and gentle husband, father and friend. Resting at Brenan's Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), with visiting on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. The funeral service will be held from St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Hampton on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 2 PM. Interment will take place in Hampton Rural Cemetery. A Royal Canadian Legion Tribute to a Veteran Service will held on Tuesday at 7 PM. For those who wish, remembrances to the RCL Branch #58 Kennebecasis Valley would be appreciated by the family.