Obituary of Harold Clare Wiltse

Harold Wiltse was born in Consort July 16, 1915; he was one of the babies that Dr. Day delivered. Harold died in Consort March 23rd, 2013 at the age of 97. The oldest son of Fred and Daisy Wiltse, Harold grew up and did his schooling in Consort. He was predeceased by parents Fred and Daisy Wiltse, Sister Francis Hinkle, Brother Art Wiltse, and Brother Ronald Wiltse. In 1937 he was a grain buyer for Pioneer Grain Company. In 1939 he and his father purchased the local Grocery Store from Sanderson. When they took over they named it the Pioneer Store. Harold once told us that he had his first date with Bernice Doherty when she was 16 years old, they went to a movie and she became the love of his life. Harold married Bernice on November 30th, 1939 which lasted a loving 72 years until her passing in November 2011. In 1942 Harold joined The Royal Canadian Air Force as a Radio Operator and was later discharged in 1945 after World War II. After his discharge Harold rented part of L. Robinson garage and was instrumental in revitalizing the Ford Dealership. In 1948 he built a new garage and combined the original garage owned by his Uncle Harrison and Father. He later sold the business in 1977. Harold was elected to Village Council in 1949, became Mayor and served for 21 years and seen many improvements to the Village during this time. Harold also belonged to Consort Legion, Lions Club, and Board of Trade. Harold and Bernice spent many winters in Mesa, AZ. They loved Square Dancing, Curling, Golfing and they loved having company. One of their favourite things was watching the Edmonton Oilers hockey games while sharing a pizza and beer. Harold is survived by his Sister Dolores Boyd, Sister-in-law Francie, Brother-in-law Bob and many nieces, nephews and friends. Harold’s memory was exceptional and he was the” go to guy“ for any information about the early years of Consort and Gooseberry Lake.