Harold R. Hayden

Surrounded by his loving family and leaving us all with a lifetime of wonderful memories, Harold Richard Hayden went to be with our mom on January 16th, 2025.

He was predeceased by the love of his life and wife of 64 years, Nora Hayden, parents; Ronald and Elizabeth Hayden, parents-in-law; Arthur and Gemima Learning, grandson Jacob Puddister and brothers: Vince, Stan, Michael, Lawrence, Frank, Ronald, Randell, William, Cyril and sisters: Hilda, Rita, Sally and Joan. 

Dad’s family was the most important thing to him and his spirit always shined brightest when we were gathered together. He is leaving to mourn his children: Sandra, Richard (Linda), Elizabeth, Marlie (Keegan) and Lesa (Neil); grandchildren: Jimmy (Cynthia), Melanie (Bill), Tyler (Katelyn), Kelsey (Julia), Brittney (Lucas), Kali, Erin, Natalie (Owen) and Nielle (Colby); great-grandchildren: Calista, Lyla, Jesse, Hayden, Chase, and Lennon. Dad was truly blessed to be surrounded by a large circle of family and friends, including his best friends: Denny Stratton, Helen Hawkins, Raymie O’Brien, his song friends and many special nieces and nephews. He also wanted to say a special goodbye to his card buddies who he shared many good times and laughs with over the years. We will never forget the many good friends who stopped by for a chat and shared treats with dad. Thank you.  

Dad was a truly remarkable father, grandfather, uncle, brother, friend and son. He met our mom in Goose Bay while working on the military base in 1956 where their love story and our family began. He was a pillar of his beloved community of Cape Broyle, where he owned and operated the Riverside Restaurant and Lounge for 32 years. Dad was happiest surrounded by his family and friends, playing cards at the Riverside, or up the country hunting or fishing. He was so proud of his children and grandchildren and loved to watch his great-grandchildren grow and play. He will forever be remembered for his kindness and generosity, his humour and his strength, and his compassion and warmth. 

Our family would like to thank Dr. Rodney McCarthy, the staff at The Medicine Corner, the medical professionals at St. Clare’s Hospital, nurse Michelle Rossiter, social worker Mary Rossiter, and Quality Home Care for their compassionate care of dad over the years. We would also like to say a very special thank you to Anne Marie Francois for her love, kindness and friendship in caring for dad over the years. They shared many memories cooking, laughing and telling stories together. We also thank Betty Hawkins, Mel Bearns and Josie Carińo for their kind and gentle care of our dad.

In keeping with his final wishes, dad and Mom will be buried together at Our Lady of the Cape Roman Catholic Cemetery in Cape Broyle at 1:00 pm on Sunday, January 19th, 2025 followed by a celebration of life at The Riverside Restaurant and Lounge. We welcome all who loved mom and dad to say farewell at their favourite place. 

In his final hours dad looked bravely at his children and grandchildren and said, “Goodnight to you all, I love you, I’ll see you again someday”. Goodnight and God Bless, Dad/Pop. We love you. 

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Jacob Puddister Memorial Foundation.

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