By Gazette Staff

December 1^st, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Harry William Zahoruk

The world became a little less bright when Harry William Zahoruk passed away in his 91st year. He leaves behind memories that will keep us smiling for years to come. Harry was a man whose humour could light up a room, whose generosity knew no bounds, and whose smile made strangers feel like friends.

Harry William Zahoruk

Born on January 1, 1935, in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, to his parents Harry Sr. and Anna Zahoruk, Harry’s life was defined by curiosity, kindness, and a deep sense of responsibility to family and community.

Harry’s greatest devotion was to his cherished wife of 65 years, Marian Zahoruk, owner of New Street Gallery in Burlington. Together they built a life rooted in love and laughter. He was a proud father to Cynthia Zahoruk (Luc Lacroix), Karen Zahoruk, David Zahoruk (Leslie), and Peter Zahoruk, and was predeceased by his daughter Marianne Zahoruk Griffith (Kelly). Cherished grandfather of Michael, Rachel, Abigayle, Amelie, and Nathalie, beloved older brother of Dennis Zahoruk, and predeceased by his younger brother Dr. Ronald Zahoruk.

Professionally, Harry practiced law in Burlington for over 60 years, continuing until the remarkable age of 90, when health challenges finally forced him to retire. His legal career was never about battles or adversarial victories; it was built on fairness, respect, and the belief that solutions should unite rather than divide. After attending the University of Toronto and graduating from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1961, Harry served as a Bencher of the Law Society of Ontario, helping shape the profession he loved. His reputation for principled leadership and compassion touched countless lives. Harry treated his staff as family, and his longtime legal assistants Sandra and Beverly were among his dearest friends.

Beyond his legal work, Harry gave back to his community as a Burlington Town Councillor in the late 1960s, and as an original founding director of Burlington Citizens Cable TV. He loved nothing more than getting together to laugh with his longtime friends sharing stories and enjoying the bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Harry will be remembered as a man who valued laughter, loyalty, and community. His legacy lives on in every smile he inspired and every act of kindness he offered. Instead of mourning, we celebrate a life well-lived — one that reminds us to be generous, to stay curious, and to never underestimate the joy of a good joke.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Holy Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Burlington, Ontario. Website Link for donation: https://hpucc.ca/support.php?lang=en