Obituary of Lena Harwood

Harwood, Lena - In the early hours of October 23, 2021 with her family by her side Lena passed away peacefully at the age of 96 years. Predeceased by her husband of 61 years, John (2014) and her brother, Stanley (2003) and survived by her sister, Margaret. Devoted mother to Christine Kaczynski, Sheila Harwood (Walter), Audrey Bliss (Mick) and Janice Mannering (Matthew). Loving grandmother to Jennifer and Kenneth; Katherine, Luke and Isaac and David. Great grandmother to Kieran. In 1968 Lena emigrated with her family from England to Canada and worked for 20 years at the Sun Life Assurance Company, both in Montreal and Toronto. Lena was active her whole life particularly enjoying hiking and badminton. She was an avid tennis player for over 70 years. From learning how to play as a school girl, she taught her husband and all her daughters to play. When she could no longer play she continued to follow professional tennis on TV. Lena enjoyed board games and crossword puzzles. She loved to knit and donated over a hundred newborn hats to the Maternity ward at the Brantford General Hospital. She spent her last 11 years living at Seasons Retirement Home in Brantford and the family would like to extend their appreciation for all their support and care. Lena specifically wanted to mention her gratitude to Jessie, her long time PSW, for her compassion and thoughtfulness over the years. The family would also like to thank Dr Bernadette McNeil for her years of compassionate care as Lena’s family doctor. A private service will be held to honour Lena at a future date. Donations in Lena’s name may be made to the Arthritis Society, Canadian Lung Association, or the Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Beckett-Glaves Family Funeral Centre. A tree will be planted in memory of Lena in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.