Harold Edwin PEPPER (1931 - 2020)
DR. HAROLD EDWIN PEPPER We are heart-broken to have to share that Dr. Harold Edwin Pepper (nicknamed Bruz and Hal), born in Toronto January 14, 1931, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 3, 2020, surrounded by much love. He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Lorine Pepper (née Scott); and by his adoring children, Rick (Cathy), Cheryl and Glenda; plus embraced daughter, Vikki Ruth. Harold is treasured by his six grandchildren: Melissa, Leandra, Ember, Amanda, Allie and Jordin, and great-granddaughter Ella. Harold was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Dorothy Pepper (Heynes) and by his three siblings, Peggy Hunter and Gordon and Gary Pepper. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Marguerite Pepper, many nephews and nieces, and dear friends. Harold grew up near Eglington and Avenue Road in Toronto with his family, including his beloved Grandmother. His family travelled, and later cottaged on Gullwing Lake, which is where Harold developed his love of Muskoka. Harold graduated from the University of Toronto Dental College in 1957. He put himself through school by working as "Pepper the Painter", painting houses inside and out, which became a skill well used throughout his life. After a five-year engagement, Harold and Lorine married on June 15, 1957. After honeymooning in New York City, they headed up to Echo Bay in Northern Ontario to provide Dental services to the local children, living in and working from a Red Cross trailer for a year. Meanwhile their home was built, complete with a dental office downstairs, in the new neighbourhood of Bayview Village, in Willowdale (North York). Harold enjoyed being the neighbourhood dentist, caring for generations of local families and friends for more than forty years. His cheerful attitude uplifted everyone. For his patients, going to the dentist was fun! His loyal staff, many for over 30 years, are a testament to his character. Harold made sure his children had great Canadian winters. He built a huge skating rink every year, spending hours in the freezing evenings stomping and watering the snow, for his kids and their friends to enjoy, even though he didn't like to skate! Since 1965, Harold and Lorine enjoyed the seasons at their own family cottage in Muskoka, sharing the fun with countless friends and family. Harold never tired of taking kids water-skiing, teaching them to sail and snowmobile, and ensuring that all his children and grandchildren became expert boat drivers. He seldom lost at chess or monopoly, and was always ready to play any game! Harold and Lorine cared for the cottage, which they decorated with souvenirs from their travels. Harold and Lorine enjoyed all sorts of travel over many decades. In 2011, Harold and Lorine took their family on a Mediterranean cruise, which passed down their passion for exploring and discovering the rich history of the world. Harold will be remembered for his bright smile, infectious laughter, light-hearted teasing and hilarious repertoire of practical jokes. He was generous, and showed genuine interest in and kindness toward everyone. He was curious to learn everything from cooking, butchering, baking, locksmithing, wine-making, scuba diving, boating, motorcycling, to even piloting a plane! He highly valued education, encouraging young folks to follow their passions. We would like to thank all the Personal Support Workers, especially Elizabeth, who assisted Lorine to lovingly care for Harold so that he could stay comfortably in his home. Harold's passing was peaceful and gentle. Cremation has taken place. Interment and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, because Harold deserves one heck of a party! Harold's favorite charity is the Salvation Army, if you wish to make a donation. Please share your favorite memories of Harold and enjoy Harold's life in pictures, at the Kane-Jerrett Thornhill website.