Onni T.A. Harty

Mr. Onni T. A. Harty passed away peacefully in Pioneer Ridge Home For the Aged on April 21, 2008 after a lengthy illness. Onni was born in Oscar Ontario, C.N.R. section line on March 12 1916 to Peter and Hilma Harty. His proud parents were unaware that Onni would begin life back in the Northern Ontario woods. Working as a young boy logging with horses and snow sleighs, Onni worked until the age of 28 years, and was then offered work as a police officer. Onni had proven to be a valuable employee, working in large hotels in the city of Port Arthur, where he was responsible for all facets of business. This laid the foundation for him being a valuable asset in assisting with the amalgamation of the cities of Port Arthur and Fort William. After only a short period of time with the Port Arthur Police Department, Onni decided to join the Canadian Army and went overseas with his brother Peter Harty, a naval officer. While overseas, Onni worked in the Provo Core where he held the rank of Sergeant in the C.I.D before being recalled to Port Arthur in 1947 for National Importance, and returning to police work. Upon returning from the war Onni and his brother Peter moved back to their mother's home to live along with older brother Edward, who was at the time a key person in Shell Oil, wife Julia and his children Melvin A. Harty, Sandra E. Harty and newborn son Richard Harty. In 1947, Onni became a detective, and after many merits for investigation and solving several high profile police cases Onni was promoted to Deputy Chief of the Port Arthur Police Department later becoming Chief of Police. Thunder Bay was a vibrant, busy city with plenty of good jobs when the city fathers and Police Commission encouraged Onni to be the first Police Chief of the newly formed city. With zest and vigour, Onni took the task of assisting in forming a larger, effective police force. The legacy left by Onni after his retirement in 1978 ensured that the Thunder Bay Police Force would consist of fine police officers and other personnel who would work well together. In retirement Onni now turned his sights to fishing, hunting and camping with his wife Julia, his family and his friends. Onni is survived by his son Melving and family, daughter Sandra Grieve and family and son Richard B. Harty and family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Julia in 2000. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2008 from 6-8 p.m. in the Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel, 21 N. Court Street. Should friends desire memorial donations to the Dew Drop Inn would be appreciated. On-line condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com"