Obituary of Walter Hapanovich

It is with broken hearts that we announce the unexpected yet peaceful passing of our beloved father and grandfather, Happy, after dealing with several health challenges at the age of 83. We take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited in paradise with his loving wife, Dale. Devoted dad and best friend of Jenn (Matt) and Paul (Lisa), who he dedicated his life to giving them love and happiness. He loved and cared so much for his wonderful grandchildren Michael and Sarah, whom he was extremely proud of. Predeceased by his loving parents George (James) and Jenny, his brother Eddie (Joan) and sister Olga (Ormen). Much loved son-in-law of the late Audrey and the late Oscar Ramsey. He thought the world of his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and many cousins on all sides of the family. Happy was well known and loved in the community. He was a devoted volunteer for many charities, that many people recognized and will miss his cheerful smile.

He grew up playing many sports especially broomball, hockey, baseball and football, where he developed many lifelong friendships. From there he began officiating, especially baseball where he spent much time over 56 years to helping youth. He cherished meeting his weekly coffee buddies at the Cambrian Mall and high school football buddies at the Legion. Happy worked for 36 years at Algoma Steel and thought fondly of his fellow co-workers.

Over the years, he and Dale developed many close friendships that they cherished. We have strong feelings of gratitude toward all these friends for the happiness they brought to their lives.

For the last four years, Happy was loved by a special friend, Diane Stuckey, who brought him a lot of joy. A special thank you to the staff at the FJ Davey Home Birch Lane 1 for the care they provided to Happy over the last two years. Also, a heartfelt thank you to Dr. DiFabio, intern Tiana Bressan and the wonderful nurses in ICU. Finally, a special thank you to Dr. Gray and the nurses on 3B who took great care of our dad.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Monday, December 15, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass to be held at St. Jerome’s Church on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 12:00 noon with Father Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Inurnment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Columbarium. Memorial donations to Sault Area Hospital Foundation or ARCH would be greatly appreciated by the family.