Robert "Harold" Lemon

Robert "Harold" Lemon passed away peacefully in his 99th year on December 4, 2024. He is predeceased by his wife, Margaret and his parents, Winnie and Guy.

Harold grew up in Toronto and often spoke fondly of his memories during that time. As a lifelong Leafs fan, one of his favourite stories to tell was about the two Leafs players who dated the girls next door. When he went on to have a family of his own, he shared his passion for the game with his kids who have fond memories of attending a Leafs game, including a playoff game in a year they won the Cup!

Hockey wasn't the only Canadian pastime Harold embraced. He loved his country, the outdoors and the different activities each season had to offer. He enjoyed summer breaks at the family cottage on Lake Couchiching where he often trolled for bass on the lake and loved a good campfire. He spent many days fishing for pickerel on the Nottawasaga River. In the fall he often rounded up the family beagles and his favourite fishing and hunting partners - his sons Clark and Kirk and his cousin Doug, hunting for rabbits with the dogs or hunting ducks in the Minesing Swamp.

Harold and Margaret bought their first home in Richmond Hill where they raised their three kids. They belonged to the Presbyterian Church, where Harold spent three decades as an Elder. 

In his later years, after retirement, Harold loved to visit family in northern Ontario. One of his happiest times was the two weeks he spent at Pancake Bay on Lake Superior helping his son Clark build his camp. He had a knack for cooking delicious dinners at camp despite the lack of modern day equipment.

Harold was truly one-of a-kind. He was a doting husband for 65 years to Margaret who he loved dearly and cared for selflessly. He was a loving dad who always showed up for his kids, Clark, Anne (Martin) and Kirk (Megan). And the best papa anyone could ask for to Ashley (Adam), Jennifer (Michael), Conor and Tara. 

He was the most decent of men. He was kind and loyal. Strong and unshakeable. Steady and reliable always. He never complained. His presence was quiet and calming. He had an arsenal of witty one-liners that he seemed to know just the right moment to drop. 

He found joy in the simple things life had to offer. Caring for his wife. Walking the dog at Fairy Lake. Fishing and hunting with his sons. Family gatherings at Anne and Martin's. Church on Sundays. Early mornings. Time outdoors. Taking his grandkids tobogganing. Teaching them how to drive. Word puzzles. The Red Green Show. Family. Friends. Faith. He knew what mattered and he spent his energy there. It was a life well lived.

Dad, Papa - we are so grateful for all the bonus time we had with you. Arlo, Wallace, Leon, and Rosie will grow up with stories about how wonderful their Great Grandpapa was. Always the pragmatic man, we know you were ready to start your next chapter. It was time to "kick the bucket" as you liked to say. Although we miss you terribly, we take comfort in knowing that you were ready. Knowing your cherished memories have returned. And knowing you are reunited with sweet Nana.

An absolute gentleman. We love you, Papa! Bye for now.

Cremation has taken place. A family graveside service will be held in the Spring at the Alliston Cemetery where Harold will rest in the company of his parents, aunts and uncles, and loving wife.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Ducks Unlimited Canada would be appreciated.