John Henry 'Harry' Quarton

John Henry “Harry” Quarton

November 22, 1922 – April 8, 2019

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Colonel J.H. “Harry” Quarton announces the death of their beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and uncle at his home in Summerland, BC at the age of 96.

Harry was born on the family farm in Marshall, SK to John and Lillian (Henry) Quarton. 

Harry was predeceased by his first wife Patricia (Walters) in 1975; brothers Gerry, Reg, and Bill; and sons-in-law Willis Richie and Larry Banick.  He is survived by his devoted and loving wife May (Moore) of 43 years and his three daughters Marlene Ritchie (Brett Morgan) of Abbotsford, Shelley Banick of Edmonton, and Cheryl Quarton of Coquitlam.  He was adored and admired by his grandchildren Brent (Theresa) Ritchie and their children Addison, Avery, and Makena; Chris (Cynthia) Ritchie; Tamara Banick; Tyler (Laura) Banick and their children Madison, Ethan, and Liam; and Torrey Banick and his children Christian and Morgan.  Loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends will also miss Harry.

Harry joined the South Alberta Regiment (29 Cdn. Arm’d Regt.) at the age of 17 in 1940.  He was sent to Fourth Canadian Armoured Division Headquarters and was the youngest Technical Quarter Master Sergeant Major in the Canadian Army at age 19.  He served overseas in WWII, returning in 1946.

He was senior Aide-de-Camp serving five lieutenant governors of Alberta for 22 years.

Harry’s long and celebrated career took him around the world, both in wartime and peace, from battling on the beaches of Normandy to escorting members of the the British royal family.  He was an accomplished citizen soldier serving 46 years in regular and reserve service.  His family, his church, the military, gardening, sailing, public service, and his career were a big part of Harry’s life.  Soon after their retirement in 1988, Harry and May moved from Edmonton to Summerland making it their home for the past 32 years.

The family wishes to thank Dr. A. Bannerman and associates for their care of Harry.

A Celebration and Remembrance of Harry’s life will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Providence’s Summerland Chapel, 13205 Rosedale Avenue, Summerland, BC.  The interment will take place in Edmonton, AB at a later date.

‘I believe it is the duty of each individual to serve their country in some manner to forever remember the sacrifice that others paid to ensure freedom.  That is why our Association and Regiment, together with family members, return to Europe regularly to pay homage to our war dead.”-Harry Quarton

May God care for you as you cared for us.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember him.

Condolences may be directed to the family through providencefuneralhomes.com 250-494-7752.