Harry Edwin Mathias passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Monday, June 16, 2014 at the age of 84. Harry was born on January 19, 1930 in Weyburn, Saskatchewan though his family soon moved so he spent most of his youth in various locations in British Columbia. He graduated from UBC in 1954 and became a teacher, starting teaching in 1955 in the West Kootenays. He married his love, Evelyn Hawkins, on July 7, 1956. Harry and Evelyn settled in Cranbrook and Harry spent the next 31 professional years at Mount Baker Secondary School. Harry retired from teaching in 1987.
Evelyn and Harry raised three children: Grant, who predeceased them in 1980, Lynne (Steve) Newhouse and Leslie (Mark) Molnar. Harry has four grandchildren: Jake Molnar, Daniel Zimmer, Marissa Molnar and Jocelyn Molnar. Harry is also survived by two sisters; Joyce (Clare) Creasser and Connie (Paul) Schlitt as well as many nieces and nephews.
Harry was an active person in the community, always willing to help others. He was particularly involved with the Cranbrook and District Teachers’ Association, several charities and the CCF (later known as the NDP). Harry ran for MLA for the BC NDP party in 1983. Harry and Evelyn became honorary life members of the NDP in 1996.
Harry and Evelyn both loved to garden. Harry loved to travel. Before retirement, he took his family, mostly camping, to many places in Canada and the US. After he retired, he and Evelyn took 38 major trips, to places including Cuba, Venezuela, China, Europe and Great Britain.
Harry believed in pursuing social issues, and was a positive, loving individual with a strong devotion to family. He will be missed.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 21st at 2:00 PM at the Cranbrook United Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences may be left for the family at www.markmemorial.com.