Hartland Ross FINLEY

FINLEY, Hartland Ross 1921 - 2009 Hart died peacefully surrounded by his loving family in hospice, Victoria, BC on January 22, 2009. He was born in Montreal on August 19, 1921. Predeceased by his parents Eric Barrett Finley and Eugenie Marjorie Ross, sister Shirley Marjorie Paul and brother Eric Gault Finley. Hart will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 58 years, Margaret Mackay, and his devoted children Heather (Rob Burpee), Sandra and Gordon (Debbie Childs). Remembering their dear Grampie are his seven grandchildren - Danica, Bryony, Somer, Brad, Melanie, Cody and Sarah. He is also survived by his brother Alan Finley (Shirley) of Victoria, his sister Mary Riley (George) of Ottawa and many extended family members. After WWII, where Hart served with the RCAF (443 squadron) and was awarded the DFC, he met the love of his life, Marg, and they moved to Ottawa where they happily raised their children. Hart's distinguished career in aviation was followed by many rewarding years of volunteer work with Scouts, Habitat for Humanity and the Parkinson's Society. He and Marg felt blessed to have had many memorable trips to faraway places. They moved to Victoria in 2005 to be near their daughters, but kept their many eastern friends close to their hearts. Hart was a remarkable gentleman who lived his entire life with grace and dignity, humour and fairness. He was loved and admired by all who knew him. His family thanks Cory and Laura and the staff of Victoria Hospice for their heartfelt care. A private memorial service will be held at Somerset House in Victoria on February 21st at 2 p.m. followed by an open celebration at 3 p.m. In Hart's memory, his family would appreciate donations to Victoria Hospice, 1510 Fort St, Victoria V8S 5J2 or online at victoriahospice.org Hart was fond of saying "you can't fly on one wing" so at your next happy hour, please raise your glass to a truly lovely soul. Published in the Ottawa Citizen on 1/31/2009