Oscar James Harris passed away peacefully on Monday, August 5, 2024 at Colchester East Hants Health Centre. Oscar, (also known as "Kate" in Yarmouth) was born in 1936 in Little River Harbour, Nova Scotia. He was married to Elaine; father to Cindy (from a previous marriage) and stepfather to Claudette, Paul and Joe; grandfather "Puppie" to 7 grandchildren and great grandfather to 12.

Oscar came from a family of 11 children, Alice, Bernie, Doug, Yvonne, Helen and was predeceased by Stillman, Herman, Snooky "George", Margaret and Mabel. He spoke often about his mother who had a store where she sold flour, sugar and the necessity of life which helped to feed her large family.

At age 17, Oscar moved to Toronto where his brother, Doug was instrumental in helping him get his first official job at Continental Can. Though he worked with his father (who was a fisherman) in Yarmouth, it’s interesting to note that he never considered working with his father as his first job, though one would imagine that it was hard work. The following years saw him working at various jobs and finally settling at Abitibi Containers in Rexdale, Ontario. He was then transferred to Guelph, Ontario where he became a supervisor.

In 1986, Oscar moved back to Yarmouth with his wife, Elaine and step-son, Joe where he went back to his roots, purchasing a fishing boat naming it EC and Cindy after his daughter, Cindy.

In his spare time he was often heard playing guitar or banjo and singing George Jones. One of his favourite songs was "Walk Through This World With Me". He was also part of the choir at St. Gabriel Church where he also played the guitar.

Oscar became very interested in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever originally known as the Little River Duck dog. This dog was first bred in Little River and he felt it should be recognized as such. With that thought in mind he was responsible for the first sign prominently displayed on Comeau’s Hill Road, something he was quite proud of.

With his intention to retire he sold his boat and opened a convenience store, Black Pond Convenience. Oscar officially retired in 2011 moving to Masstown. To connect with the community he joined the Legion in Truro. Meeting Bill Simpson, someone who enjoyed playing guitar with a group of friends, extended an invitation for Oscar to come and play with them, something he often did and thoroughly enjoyed.

Oscar was very much his own man. His opinion was not easy to change but when faced with facts he conceded, usually with a sheepish grin. Everyone has an Oscar story and the family is hoping you will join them and share those stories at his Celebration of Life at 2 pm on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at the Royal Canadian Legion, 42 Brunswick Street, Truro, Nova Scotia. Refreshments and food will be served. If so desired, donations in memory of Oscar to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or Canadian Cancer Society are welcomed.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com