Harley Gaunt

Peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Harley Gaunt of Wingham passed away at the age of 81.

 

The loving husband of Wendy Gaunt, Harley was the devoted dad of Erin Gaunt and Jason Brewer and Ashley and Matt Smith and the proud papa of Landon Brewer (Bella), and Wesley and Lucas Smith. 

 

Harley will be lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews and their families, as well as by Bill and Tracy Gaunt, Jana and Bruce Angel and Brenda Thompson and their families.

 

Harley was predeceased by his parents, John and Agnes (Coultes) Gaunt, his first wife Joyce Gaunt, daughter Karen Gaunt, brothers George and Jim Gaunt, sister Jean Ross and parents-in-law Vic and Lois Card.

 

Harley dedicated his life to fire service, beginning his career in 1964 and serving as the Fire Chief from Jan. 1, 1986, until his retirement on Dec. 31, 2009. Overseeing both the Gorrie and Wingham Fire Departments, he led with excellence, graduating as the Valedictorian from fire college. 

 

His leadership extended beyond firefighting. He served as the Mutual Aid Chairman and played a key role in implementing the Canada Day fireworks. When lunchtime rolled around, you’d often find Harley across from the fire hall, swapping his fire gear for a chip cutter at the fry truck with his wife Wendy. 

 

Harley’s dedication to his community, both in and out of uniform leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership and countless stories.  

 

A casual come-and-go celebration of Harley’s life will be held at the place that he held near and dear to his heart, the Wingham Fire Hall (369 Josephine St. Wingham) on Saturday, March 22 from 1-4 p.m.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Huronview Resident’s Council or the Wingham Firefighters’ Association would be appreciated and can be placed through McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham.

 

Online condolences may be left at mcburneyfuneralhome.com