Obituary of Henry Joseph Walsh

WALSH, Henry Joseph

March 19, 1938 – April 9, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Henry Joseph Walsh, who died peacefully on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Toronto, Henry’s life was defined by love, family, and a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures.He met his first wife, Jean, in Toronto, where they began building a family. Seeking change, they left the city behind and embarked on a new adventure that would shape the rest of their lives. Together, they purchased a farm near Lakefield and built a life filled with joy until Jean’s passing in 1996.

In 2000, Henry found love again and married Margaret Campbell, who predeceased him in 2019. Henry lived the majority of his life in the Peterborough and Aurora areas, surrounded by the people he cherished most. He will be lovingly remembered by his sons John (Shona), Dave (Nadia), Blair (Suzanne), and Warren (Rachael); his stepchildren Tracey (Nick) and Glenn (Tara); and his ten beloved grandchildren: Meagan, Connor, Kristy, Jesse, Lindsay, Lucas, Alice, Kira, Mikhail, and Zachary. He also took great joy in spending time with his two great-grandchildren, Valkyrie and Camden.

In recent years, Henry rekindled a friendship with Miria Gordaneer, and the two enjoyed time together travelling back and forth between Ontario and Victoria, BC.

Affectionately known as “Hank,” Henry was a kind, compassionate, and deeply thoughtful man. His warmth and vibrant spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him. A lifelong fitness enthusiast, he remained active—speed skating, biking, and pole walking—well into his 80s. He was an avid reader, a dedicated sports fan, and a brilliant conversationalist who could talk for hours on any topic.

Henry had a passion for travel and experienced many corners of the world, but it was the simple pleasures—road trips, time at his Peterborough cottage, and being with loved ones—that brought him the most happiness.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Tracey and the team at Southlake Hospital in Newmarket.  Sincere gratitude as well goes to the staff and volunteers at Hospice Peterborough for the exceptional care during Henry’s final days.

A celebration of Henry’s life will be held in the summer of 2025, following his interment beside his first love, Jean. Details will be shared at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES - LAKEFIELD CHAPEL. In lieu of flowers, donations and online condolences in Henry’s memory may be made to Hospice Peterborough by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705-652-3355.