Harold Edward Zelt
February 15th, 1927 ~ April 30th, 2024
Harold Zelt, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 30, 2024, at the venerable age of 97 in White Rock, B.C. Born on February 15, 1927, in Edmonton, Alberta, Harold's early years were spent in nearby Nisku, where he went to school and worked in his family's general store. Harold was a banker who spent his entire working life with the Toronto Dominion Bank in various locations in B.C. (Victoria, New Westminster, Burnaby, Terrace, and Oak Bay) until his retirement in 1986.
Harold's life was enriched by his loving marriage to Jo-Ann in 1953, with whom he raised four sons: Michael, Jeffrey, Barry, and Colin. The couple enjoyed their retirement years in Saltair and Chemainus on Vancouver Island, and after Jo-Ann's passing in 2017 Harold made his home at the White Rock Seniors Village (WRSV), where he formed new friendships.
An avid collector of antiques and a familiar face at flea markets, Harold's knowledge of antiques was extensive. He enjoyed his volunteer work at the Chemainus Valley Museum, particularly meeting visitors from around the world. While at the WRSV, Harold became interested in taking photographs of local dogs he met while out on his scooter. His photos became the basis for the popular "Dogs of White Rock" calendar series, created with the help of staff at WRSV. Profits from sales of these calendars went to the SPCA. In his 90s, Harold also discovered a talent for painting, creating vibrant abstracts.
More than anything, Harold enjoyed making friends, and he made many during his lifetime. He will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind, generous, gentle, and soft-spoken man.
He is survived by his sons, and grandson Jason. He was close to his siblings, (Wilfred, Gordon, Vernon and Lorraine), but outlived them all.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at WRSV for their exceptional care and support, especially during Harold's final year.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA in Harold's memory, honouring his love for animals and his charitable heart.
Messages:
Our most sincere condolences on the passing of Uncle Harold. We have so many good memories of him that will always remain. Wishing our best to Michael, Jeffrey, Barry, Colin and family.
I was deeply saddened to hear about Harold passing. You have my deepest condolences for the loss of such a wonderful person.
Dear Michael, Jeffrey, Barry & Colin & grandson Jason. Our Deepest Sympathy goes out to all of you at this very sad time of your Dad & Grampa's passing. We are very sorry that we cannot be there to celebrate with you Uncle Harold's life, we will be keeping you close in our thoughts & prayers. I will always fondly remember the kind, gentle, soft spoken & humble man that he was. I'm very grateful to have some of his beautiful calendars, "Dogs of White Rock", his passion & love present in each picture, and the kindness and loving contribution he shared with the SPCA. I wish we had visited more over the years with Uncle Harold & Aunt Jo-Ann & your family. We celebrate with you Uncle Harold's life. May he be at peace with our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, reunited with Aunt Jo-Ann & all his loved ones who have sadly passed on earlier in the years & my dad Vernon, so many years ago. We love you all, you're in our thoughts & prayers, may God bless you!