Harry Katrynuk

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Harry Katrynuk, on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the age of 84, at Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Nova Scotia.

Born on May 12, 1941 in Welland, Ontario, Harry was the cherished son of the late Bill and Katie (Pahowski) Katrynuk.

Harry was a devoted hockey player who made his way to North Sydney, where he met Mary, the love of his life. Moving to Newfoundland in the early 1960s, Harry quickly became a respected and dominant player in the province’s senior hockey league. Known affectionately as “Harry the Kat,” he suited up for the Corner Brook Royals, the Gander Flyers, and the Grand Falls Cataracts. He represented Newfoundland in three Allan Cup playoffs, and in recognition of his outstanding career, was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007.

This year, Harry and his true love, Mary, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Their love story was one of true partnership, built on respect, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together they created a home filled with warmth, welcome, and unconditional love. Harry passed only two weeks after Mary, a heartbreaking reminder of how inseparable they truly were. Though their loss is profound, there is comfort in knowing they are reunited once more.

Harry leaves behind his dear brothers, Ralph Katrynuk and Billy (Linda) Katrynuk; his brothers-in-law, Mick (Bonnie) Lawless and Gerald (Mary) Lawless; and his sisters-in-law, Micheline Katrynuk, Linda (Daryl) Rendell, Tish Lawless, Renée (Mark) Romanowsky, and Sue (Kenny) LeBlanc. He is also lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and extended family, all of whom adored their Uncle Harry and will carry his love in their hearts.

Harry’s reunion in heaven is as important as those he leaves behind. He is predeceased and reunited with his loving wife, Mary; his parents, Bill and Katie; his brother, Richard; his sisters-in-law, Irene Katrynuk, Jean Farrell, Susan Howley, Elizabeth, and Marina; his brother-in-law, Ed Lawless; his parents-in-law, Thomas and Georgina; and his niece, Michelle Katrynuk. Knowing they are together again will bring comfort to those who grieve him here.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Cancer Clinic and floor 3B at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their care and compassion for Harry. Donations in Harry’s memory may be made to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Cancer Centre or to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. A service to celebrate Harry’s life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family by writing on the tribute wall of the obituary page.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harry Katrynuk, please visit our floral store.