HARTY; Leo Patrick Joseph Harty was born on January 27, 1920. Dad joined the army in 1941 and served until 1946. Upon his return he settled into farming in the Edam area in 1952. He met Evelyn Anderson and they married in 1952. Their marriage was blessed with 6 children. The loss of Marvin in 1976 at the age of 17 has always weighed heavily on Mom and Dad's hearts. Dad had a vision for the value system he wanted to instill in his family and believed that farm life would be the base from which to reach that goal. Throughout all of the farm living Dad taught us that Sunday was a day to set aside for God and family. Often we would go to Picnic Lake after changing out of church clothes. Dad taught us to respect all life by the way he cared for the farm animals. He taught us how to have faith in humanity by the way he conducted his business and treated people in general. A lifelong dream was realized when Dad and Mom purchased Holstein cows and began dairy farming. Dad spent many hours developing his woodworking skills by making many gifts and family heirlooms. He traveled to craft shows and sold his goods. Dad was humbled and honored when asked to build the altar, crucifix, chair, and other special pieces seen in their church, Christ the King. Dad was strong and silent, never wanted to be in the spotlight, never wanted to be recognized; he just wanted to do his thing. He was truly a humble man. Family and faith is what he held most dear to his heart. Mom and Dad retired from farming and settled into urban living in 1993. Dad continued to spend time in his woodworking shop building treasures. He made sure to invent handy gadgets for Mom to use to make some tasks easier for her everyday life. Dad started to bowl and enjoyed the time spent with his "bowling buddies." Dad taught us many lessons throughout his living but he taught us many deep, enriching lessons during his dying. The last month of his life he spent teaching us about how to live well, love deeply and laugh a lot. We experienced great joy during those precious days. Our family has learned to cherish each other and love in a deeper way than ever before. He maintained courage, dignity, honor and love throughout his illness. Even in his most painful days he had a smile for everyone that entered his room. Dads' love for his family throughout his life returned to him tenfold as we stayed with him day and night in the hospital. He joked with the nurses a few times and said: "My family never goes away." He brought tears to our eyes many times when he commented how he was well satisfied with us all and told Mom often that she was a good wife to him. Dad had the incredible talent of bringing out the best in everyone. He never complained, and had high standards for those around him, yet at the same time, you never felt judged by him, nor would he shun you for mistakes made. He would guide you as you move along, making you feel loved as you found your own way. You will always be in our hearts and memories. We love you Dad, and we thank you for your guidance, your love, and for our family. Thank you for the gift of faith and hope that one day we will be together in eternity. Pat is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Evelyn, his children Gordon (Candis), Edward (Murla), Louise (Perry), Marguerite, Theresa (Mike), 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Elizabeth Harty, brothers, Paul and Steve, sister, Marguerite, and son Marvin and grandson David. Our family would like to express deep gratitude for the many prayers, acts of kindness and words of encouragement from family and friends during this difficult time. A special thank-you for the wonderful care provided Dad by the doctors and nursing staffs of Lady Minto Center, Edam and 3rd Floor North of the Battlefords Union Hospital. May God bless each of you. The Harty Family. ____________________________________________________
