709 466-3468
299 Memorial Drive

Harry O’Gay April 23, 1930 - December 28, 2020

O’GAY, HARRY CHARLES  Passed peacefully away in Clarenville in the presence of his family on Monday, December 28, 2020, aged 90.  Predeceased by his wife Mary O’Gay (nee King), daughter Gail Sharpe, son-in-law Chris Costello, parents John and Bertha O’Gay.  Leaving to mourn with cherished memories of a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather are his daughters Margaret Costello, Denise Mifflin (Fred), Debby Fontyn (Frank), and Judith Malvern (Dean); sons John (Luisa), Brian (Michelle), and Robert (Lisa); grandchildren Bradley (Nicole), Heather (Darryl), Stephanie (Barry), Alexander, Michael, Lauren, Natalie (Robin), Zoe (Jeremy), Brandon, Kaitlyn, Cory; and great-grandchildren Lucas and Joshua.  He will also be remembered by his sister-in-law Bernadette King and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

 

We would like to express a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff at the Clarenville Retirement Centre.  The care and kindness shown to him by everyone there went far above and beyond.  He would often say that their special treatment made him “feel like a King”!

 

From a humble background as an only child, raised on a farm outside of Grand Falls, he went on in partnership with his beloved wife to create an entire family tree of his own.  Harry was a pillar of his community, leaving behind him a legacy of carpentry students inspired by his knowledge and his quest for perfectionism, numerous community projects realized through his tenacity and determination, and a slew of sports fans who shared his heartfelt joy of the cross country ski world.  He was particularly proud to have his favourite ski trail, Harry’s Loop, named in his honour – a true tribute to his life and spirit!

 

Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 2, from 10am to 1pm.  Due to Covid restrictions, a private funeral will be held at this time with an online memorial service to follow in the new year.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of Newfoundland in memory of his daughter, Gail Sharpe, or to the Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Centre.

 

Condolences(83)

  1. REPLY
    Bob Chafe and Family says

    To Robert, Margaret and the Entire O’Gay Family, sincerest condolences on your Dad’s passing. I never had the pleasure of meeting your Dad but have heard of him since moving to Clarenville some 20+ Years ago and appreciate all he did for this Community and so many persons. I pray the love of your Families and Friends and the many fond memories help you all through this most difficult of times

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  2. REPLY
    ERic Yetman says

    To the O’Gay Family Please accept our sincere condolence on the passing of you father .We have known both known your parents since mid 1950 . I remember when he showed my father how to cut the rafters for our cabin and wanted to teach him how the read the framing square .He was an excellent instructor at the Vocational school and inspired many young students in the carpentry trade .May he rest in peace .

    • REPLY
      John O'Gay says

      Hi Eric, I’m his eldest son, John. Thank you for your memories, he always enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. He led a happy long life, but will be sadly missed.

  3. REPLY
    Pat & Ben Osmond says

    To the O’Gay Family, our condolences on the loss of your Dad & grandfather. His legacy and belief in living a healthy lifestyle will live on in each of you.

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  4. REPLY
    Joyce Moore (lethbridge) and family says

    My sincere condolences to the O’Gay family. He well be missed by many.

    • REPLY
      Chris Baxendale says

      My condolences to the O’Gay family. Take care.

      • REPLY
        Judith says

        Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  5. REPLY
    Walter & June Butler says

    The O’Gay Family,
    Please accept our sincere sympathy on the death of your dear father, grandfather and great grandfather. May you find comfort in knowing that he was well loved and respected by so many others. He will be missed by many. May he Rest In Peace.

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  6. REPLY
    Cal Cole says

    I send deepest condolences to all the family. Your dad was a great man and I’m sure he will be missed by all. And I’m sure his friends at the retirement center miss him, especially Aus. And they all will miss his dancing. May he rest in peace.

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  7. REPLY
    Mary Harris Pridham says

    My sincere condolences to the family. Your dad was a great friend of my family when he lived in Buchans. I have many fond memories of him and your mom, as well as your grandmother when she would come to visit.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  8. REPLY
    Herbert & Lorraine. Goldsworthy says

    The O Gay Family;
    So sorry to hear of your lost.
    May you take comfort in knowing many friends
    are thinking of your family at this time.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  9. REPLY
    Deanne says

    Dear O’Gay Family,
    I am so sorry for loss of your father. It makes no difference the age when we lose someone we cherish so much- there’s just never enough days to be together.
    I always admired him ( mostly from afar). And it meant the world to me when I saw him come into the funeral home when mom passed in 2016. It told me much of his character.
    There’s another star shining brightly down upon us.
    Sending you all peace, love and light.
    Deanne and son, Oscar.

    Deanne Elms ( 3rd of the four children of Margaret and Oscar Elms

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much Deanne from our family. Margaret and Oscar were wonderful people and it was great to have that time with them when we all lived on the Burin Peninsula.

  10. REPLY
    Elinor Whitmore says

    I never got to meet Harry but I feel as if I knew him in part through the stories I heard about him from Judith and what a wonderful father he was to her. I am very sorry for your loss and extend my sincere condolences to all of the O’Gay family. May his memory be a blessing for all of you.

    • REPLY
      Judith says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  11. REPLY
    Joan&Jerry Fontyn says

    Our deepest condolences to the entire O’Gay family. Although we only met with Harry a few times, we really enjoyed his company. A very kind man, and always impressed by his remaining physically active in
    His senior years.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  12. REPLY
    Peter Martin says

    Our deepest condolences
    I first met Harry in the 1970’s. He was involved in finding a site for the airport outside Clarenville. As a young engineering tech, I got to walk the grounds with him for the future airport. He outwalked me ! But the conversations we had still stay with me today.
    Over the years I would meet him off and on and his energy and interest in every thing around him was an inspiration. He will be missed.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  13. REPLY
    Kevin/Dianne Butt says

    Robert, Lisa and the O’Gay Family. Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your father. We really didn’t get to know you Dad, but I know his legacy will continue through you. May he Rest In Peace. He will be missed by many in our Town.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  14. REPLY
    Glenda Janes says

    Our deepest condolences to your family. Harry was a true gentleman with a kind peaceful soul that touched so many people. He was an Instructor with St. John Ambulance for many years and was loved by all his students. You have touched many souls. Rest peacefully.
    St. John Ambulance Staff and Board of Directors.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  15. REPLY
    Sandra & Roy Fisher says

    Sincere condolences to all of Harry’s family. Lots of memories of seeing him and speaking with him on the ski trails over the years, when we skied with our girls. A special man, he will be missed..

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  16. REPLY
    David Evans says

    To the O’Gay family
    Sincere condolences to all of you, we were really saddened to hear of Harry’s passing. I’m Harry’s first cousin on his mother’s side and my parents Wilfred and Kitty Evans from Grand Falls spoke very highly of him. My wife Sandra and I visited Harry and Mary on a number of occasions on our way to St. John’s. I have a fond memory of one visit in particular when I spent a wonderful night with them unexpectedly, due to a highway closure; they welcomed me with open arms. The last time we saw him we met for lunch at the Irving Restaurant on the highway. He was a remarkable man, he will be missed. Love Sandra and Dave Evans.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. My father spoke so fondly of your parents. The O’Gay family.

  17. REPLY
    Wanda Gushue says

    Sincere condolences to the entire O’Gay family. Your parents were close family friends when they lived in Buchans. I feel privileged to say that this true gentleman was my godfather. It is obvious that your dad has left an indelible mark and will surely be missed. Praying that your precious memories help bring you peace.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. Buchans always remained a special place for my parents. The O’Gay family.

  18. REPLY
    MARGIE & Bond Hart says

    Our sincere condolences to all of the O’Gay family.His smile was certainly contagious & he was loved by all.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

    • REPLY
      Janet and Carl LeDrew says

      Sincere condolences to the O’Gay family. We have many fond memories of skiing the trails with Harry in the lead. He was an inspiration to all who knew him.

      • REPLY
        Judith O’Gay Malvern says

        Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  19. REPLY
    Faye Andrews says

    To all the O’Gay family, sincere condolences. I didn’t realize he left such a large family tree. He was a sweet man and made quite a difference during his lifetime of family, work and play. You can all be very proud of him.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  20. REPLY
    Debbie and Dean Halleran says

    Please accept our sincere condolences. Harry took pride in his work, his family and his love of outdoor activities. You could not out ski him on the trails or out dance him on the dance floor. He will be missed by many.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  21. REPLY
    Keith Barrington and Lyn Gorman says

    Sincere condolences to all the O’Gay family. Harry was the first neighbour Lyn and I met when we moved back to Clarenville 12 winters ago. From the first time I spoke with him I knew he was a humble kind individual with a special adventurous spirit. Although Lyn and I skied before returning to Newfoundland Harry was the person who introduced us to the wonderful Clarenville Nordic Ski Club. For that we will be forever grateful. We will cherish his memories.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  22. REPLY
    Marion & Gordon Cole says

    To Marg and Zoe. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time in your lives.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  23. REPLY
    Ennia Luccon says

    To the O’Gay family- My heartfelt condolences to you all. Loosing a parent is incalculable, my prayers and thoughts are with you through this difficult time. I hope you all find the strength through his loving memories. xo

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Ennia Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  24. REPLY
    Barbara Tapper says

    Brian- Michelle and the O’Gay family.:
    Our sincere sympathy in the loss of you father. Reading the condolences he was greatly admired by those he came in contact with during his lifetime. May all your memories help bring you peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the O’Gay family at this time. May he Rest In Peace.
    Sincerely
    Aunt Barb – Uncle Kevin

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  25. REPLY
    Theresa and Allan says

    Dear Margaret, John, Denise, Judith, Debby, Brian, Robert and your families.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you all..We know how precious your Dad was to each one of you …He certainly inspired a lot of people by his strength and character. We enjoyed our visits .He had a smile that would light up a room ..Your beautiful memories will always be with you …Love, Theresa and Allan

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Theresa and Allan. Thank you so very much.

  26. REPLY
    Jim & Michelle Hughes says

    Marg, Zoe and family. Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your dad and grandfather. His was a life well lived and he will be deeply missed.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  27. REPLY
    Nina Donovan says

    Words cannot express the passing of a dear father, grandfather, great grandfather. It is very warming to know such a great man. He was so dedicated to his community and its people. He cherished every moment of life and was so vey active. May we all place our hands together and pray for this great man of structure. We will always cherish him

  28. REPLY
    Judith O’Gay Malvern says

    Nina. Thank you very much for your lovely words. The O’Gay family.

  29. REPLY
    Alan Rosenberg says

    My sincerest condolences on the loss of your dad, Judith.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  30. REPLY
    Alberto and Kim Wareham says

    Marg, Zoe and the O’Gay family, deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time. A wonderful man, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed.

  31. REPLY
    Gunter T Smeskal says

    Dear Judith and family – my deepest and heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved father. I pray to the Good Lord to give you strength and understanding in the difficult times ahead. May he rest in peace and his memories be a blessing. Love and peace to all, Gunter

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  32. REPLY
    Joan O'Roark says

    Judith, please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very sad and difficult time.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  33. REPLY
    Jessica Juabot says

    Hi Judith – my sincere condolences and prayers to you and your bereaved family. May he rest in peace…

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  34. REPLY
    Keith Elms says

    Thinking of the O’Gay family at this time.

    I remember visiting your home when I was a kid and seeing an airplane that Uncle Harry was building in his workshop. I was very impressed.

    I also remember him zooming past me like I was standing still on the slopes at White Hills.

    I always thought very highly of him.

    Keith Elms

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Keith thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  35. REPLY
    Laura Higdon Williams says

    To the O’Gay family:
    I just read in The Telegram about the passing of Harry and I want to extend to all of you my very sincere condolences. I remember Harry really well and in fact, his wife, a lovely lady, taught me when they lived in Buchans. They were a highly respected and loved couple in the town. I remember Harry’s exceptional carpentry skills because I have a vivid memory of the gorgeous speaker’s stand he made for our school. It was a true work of art emblazoned with our school crest and the name Buchans Public School painted on it in colour. I graduated in 1958 and 21 years later in 1979 we held a class reunion in the school. It was with great pride that I stood behind the speaker’s stand that had been made by Harry. I could feel his presence there with us. I have wondered many times since what has happened to this lovely piece which would make a great keepsake. It has been interesting to read about Harry’s contribution to Clarenville and know he was appreciated by so many. May the legacy of love he leaves behind be an inspiration to you all in the days and weeks to come. God bless you.

    • REPLY
      John O'Gay says

      Hi Laura,
      Thank you for your thoughts and beautiful recollections of my father. I have fond memories of that crest that he made for the Buchans School. I don’t believe I got to see the finished product, but the actual cloth sow- on crest that he used as a guide to create it was fondly kept in his wood carving toolset box. I had the privilege of his instruction and used those very tools for many years. He even entrusted me to do some small amounts of the work, on another crest that he did in later years for the Fisheries College. Thanks for reminding me of such treasured memories. God bless you too!
      His eldest son,
      John

  36. REPLY
    Judith O’Gay Malvern says

    Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  37. REPLY
    Debby Curran says

    Dear Denise,
    Chris pointed out the notice of your dad’s passing in The Telegram to me today. We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

    Debby and Chris Curran

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  38. REPLY
    Mike Lee says

    We Are sorry to hear of Harry’s passing, I got to
    Harry through the home builder association in the eighties and nineties , Harry was well respected by all who knew him. To al his family our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this time,
    RIP Harry,

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  39. REPLY
    Frank O'Connor says

    John and the O’Gay Family’
    My condolences to you all. Have some wonderful memories of Harry and X-C skiing. A fine gentleman and sportsman who, with his quiet demeanor, impressed all who knew him. Rest in Peace
    Frank O’Connor

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

    • REPLY
      John O'Gay says

      Hi Frank,
      So nice to hear from you. Thank you for the very kind words and memories.
      Wishes that you are still enjoying happy trails.
      Warmest regards,.
      John

  40. REPLY
    Chris Murphy says

    Such a Nice Man. I always enjoyed speaking with him. Rest in Peace Mr. O’ Gay. Condolences to the family.

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

  41. REPLY
    Cindy King says

    Brian, Michelle and the O’Gay Family,
    Our condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Father.
    Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
    Cindy & Emir

    • REPLY
      Judith O’Gay Malvern says

      Thank you very much. The O’Gay family.

Leave a Condolence