Harold ‘Hal’ Bonora

May 20, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
Passed away peacefully at home on May 20th, 2023 with his wife Deb by his side after an arduous battle with cancer. Hal was born in Cumberland in 1945 and lived in Courtenay for the last few years of his life.
Hal was predeceased by both his parents Chester and Lorraine of Parksville.
He leaves behind his loving wife Deb of 17 years, his son Richard of Victoria, and daughters Carla (Jerry) of California, Sarah Howard of Victoria, and Jaime (Ashley) Stuckless of Coquitlam.
He felt a special love for all of his grandchildren, Joshua Bonora of Victoria, Kaia and Khloe Howard of Victoria, and Hunter and Brody Stuckless of Coquitlam.
Hal has one sister Sharon (Peter) Strettan of Christina Lake, B.C. He always loved his Yaya. Also left behind are four special nieces, Kelly, Toni, Tracey and Nicky who he loved and respected dearly.
Hal shared in the lives of a multitude of extended family and friends, including special friends Ray (Judy) Downing and Paul (Gerry) Wagner of Port Alberni and cousin and friend, Kook (Grant) Smith of Courtenay.
Hal worked most of his adult life at the Paper Mill in Port Alberni in trades positions up to Disability Management and the Crane Operator until his retirement in 2004. He enjoyed many outdoor experiences including hiking, hunting and running his fishing charter out of the Port Alberni Marina.
He was also a recreational pilot and member of the Port Alberni Flying Club for many years. He especially enjoyed the times he soared far and wide with his Dad in his airplane. Flying provided his respite from his working years and life’s challenges. Hal was also an active member of the Kinsmen Club and grew lifelong friendships from those years.
Hal was known as a storyteller and took great pride in imparting his life’s lessons to all who listened. Those lessons will be forever remembered by his precious Grandchildren, who also hold special memories of Grandpa’s Gardens and the treats they offered.
Hal and his wife Deb enjoyed their years together travelling, including many trips to their beloved Newfoundland and Mexico. These were Hal’s happy places and together they forged many friendships in those travels.
Special thanks go to many Doctors including Dr W. Tinmouth and Dr L Warren of Courtenay for their ongoing compassion and supportive care as Hal faced his years of health struggles.
A life well lived. His legacy is the love he has left behind for his family and friends. A celebration of his life to be announced at a later date.
Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society appreciated.
So, fly high my love, it is time to rest.