April 27, 1931 - February 2, 2021
It is with great sadness that the family of Harriet Kathleen Cherry (nee Dolan) announces her passing after a brief hospital stay. She was at peace surrounded by the adoring embrace of her three girls.
Loving wife of the late Dr. Donald Cherry, dedicated mother of Anne, Ruth (Mark Harrison) and Elizabeth (David Farquhar). Devoted Granny to Matthew, Kate (Alec Gibb) and Michael. Proud soon-to-be Great-Granny to Charlie. Predeceased by her mother Kathleen Van Duyse. Predeceased by sisters Antoinette Pfeifer and Barbara Hogan. Dear sister of Karel Van Duyse and Paul Van Duyse. Lifelong friend of Barb Cauley.
Harriet was born and raised in Ottawa. At a young age she developed a life-long passion for horses and met the love of her life, Don Cherry. They married in 1952 and focused on raising three daughters.
Harriet embraced her role as horse show mom to Liz for many years before becoming a well respected horse show official. In 2011 she received the Jump Canada Official of the Year Award followed by, in 2019, a Lifetime Achievement National Award from Equestrian Canada for her nearly forty years as a horse show official, judge and FEI (International) steward. She thoroughly enjoyed working at the Royal Winter Fair for over 25 years. Harriet will be missed by her Ottawa horse show friends and family.
In addition to her involvement with horse shows, Harriet had a great love of, and dedication to her family and friends. She looked forward to boisterous family dinners and was known for her great sense of humour which she kept until the end. She was an active “Granny” and liked beating her grandkids at rummy.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the Ottawa Civic Hospital with a special thanks to Ann MacDonald for her spiritual guidance.
Due to COVID-19, a small family gathering and burial was held this week and a Celebration of Life will be planned when permitted.
In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to do so, donations to The Ottawa Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated and made at www.ottawahospital.on.ca