GEORGINA ELLEN HARI

GEORGINA ELLEN HARI
(nee Ferguson)
It is with heavy hearts we announce the quiet and peaceful passing of Georgina Ellen Hari on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Georgie was predeceased by her adoring husband Terry Hari. She was the much-loved mother and best friend of Kirsten (Jon) Brimmell and cherished stepmother to Deborah (Dave) Spina, Suzanne (Paul) Guindon and Jason (Danielle) Hari. Her heart belonged to her grandchildren Henley, Kelti, Macklin and Boden Brimmell, Rowan Hari, Ryan (Kaylie) and Stephen (Kasey) Guindon and Gabriel (Rebecca) and Noah (Samantha) Spina. She was the adored daughter of the late Bertha and late James Ferguson Senior and will be missed by her favourite brother, Jim (Linda) Ferguson Junior. Many nieces, nephews and friends will miss her laughter, fun and wise advice. Georgie grew up on Manitoulin Island with summers in McGregor Bay and winters in Sheguiandah, even though she left “the Island” for many years she thought of herself as a Haweater, returning in her retirement to enjoy Island life and rekindle friendships. As a young woman she started an entry level position at Bell Canada in 1969. She was with Bell for 29 years, retiring as General Manager of the Northwestern Ontario office. Upon her Bell retirement, she became the president of the Thunder Bay United Way, running a successful million-dollar fundraising campaign. She continued her fundraising efforts as the first president and CEO of the Thunder Bay Health Sciences Centre Foundation directing campaigns to attain the initial community contribution and fundraising to help ensure the future of the hospital. Many Thunder Bay organizations benefited from her community volunteer services. She served as a director for many organizations: the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network and Junior Achievement to name a few. In 1989, she became the first female member of the Fort William Rotary Club. Georgie was a trailblazer, using her intelligence, professionalism and strength to ascend the corporate ladder in a time when it was difficult to do so for women. She set high standards for herself personally and professionally and motivated others to achieve similar standards for her and for themselves. Family was important to Georgie, with her and Terry opening their home to family and dear friends in Thunder Bay and on Manitoulin. These occasions often included spirited card games late into the night. She loved playing cards and could be quite competitive unless you were under twelve when she would conveniently forget she had that Ace. We will hold dear Georgie’s memory and use it as an inspiration and reminder of the profound impact she had on our lives. We take comfort that she is now at peace. In accordance with Georgie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at a later date. For those wishing to donate in Georgie’s memory, the family asks for memorial contributions to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Foundation. Love you, Mom/Georgie!