Obituary of Hylda Rose Harper

Singer Dies At 86 Years Old HARPER, Hilda Rose (nee Orsborn) Beloved wife of the late Selwyn Edward Harper. Hylda started her singing career with the St. Catharines Kinsmen Club Sunday Night Sing Songs...In the early years of the Second World War, Hylda entertained the Armed Forces throughout Niagara. On one occasion, when the famous Gracie Fields was in St. Catharines during a bond drive at the Palace Theatre on St. Paul St., Gracie requested that Hylda, also there entertaining, join and sing a few numbers with her. Hylda then joined as a singer with the Murray Morton Concert & Dance Orchestra, Notably the Saturday Night Y Dances... Hylda joined the CWAC's and went overseas with the Canadian Army Shows along with "Wayne & Shuster", and entertained the Armed Forces in England, Belgium, Holland and Germany. While in Holland she met up with her two brothers Collis & Guy Orsborn who were on active duty with the R.C.A.. On returning home Hylda rejoined Murray Morto's Orchestra. Predeceased by her parents John and Rose, and brothers Collis and Harry. Hylda leaves to mourn her dear brother Guy and several nieces and nephews. Hylda was born March 8, 1922, in St. Catharines, and she was a life long member of St. Barnabas Anglican Church, and was a G.M. Employee for 35 years until retirement in 1977.A special thank you to Richard her nurse and friend and other staff at Niagara Arms. In accordance with Hylda's wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating Hylda's life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at 10 a.m. at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, 31 Queenston St.. Interment to follow service at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL. If desired, memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of one's choice would be appreciated by Hylda's family.