J.H. Clyne Harradence

J.H. Clyne Harradence, Q.C. passed peacefully on St. Patrick's Day, 2012, in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Mr. Harradence was a distinguished member of the Canadian criminal defence bar, with a national reputation as an intellectually ferocious cross examiner, who possessed a deep insight into human nature. A captivating presence in the courtroom, capable of making himself the focal point of every trial he conducted, Mr. Harradence – along with his older brother Milt – made the family name synonymous with the highest standard of practise in Canadian criminal law. He was a natural showman, with a gift for the dramatic and compelling oratory skills. Underlying his commanding courtroom demeanour was a strict adherence to the principles of the law, the processes of trial and the duties of each officer of the court. His willingness to pursue technical issues, with an uncommon disregard for the time or work involved to right a wrong, was powered by his belief in the principle best summarized by the legendary 20th century English jurist Lord Demming: “true injustice occurs when the defendant is seen by the officers of the court as a docket to be cleared, and not a person accused”. His insight and cool head brought him notoriety outside of the courtroom – primarily in civil matters of the highest urgency and most publicly in his long standing role as lead hostage negotiator for the maximum security Saskatchewan Federal Penitentiary.

Born in Blaine Lake Saskatchewan, the second of two sons to Herbert & Cecilia Harradence, Mr. Harradence moved to Prince Albert as a child. He attended Prince Albert Collegiate Institute, served in the R.C.A.F. during WWII and graduated from the University of Saskatchewan School of Law in 1949. Mr. Harradence returned to Prince Albert to article with The Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker P.C., C.H., Q.C. and to assist his father with the eventual winding up of the family business, Harradence Hardware.

He joined the Saskatchewan Bar in 1950 and practised until 2002. Mr. Harradence enjoyed the full realm of life. He had a keen eye for business opportunity, was passionate about political life and was a national figure in the Anglican Church of Canada. His business successes were varied, including real estate ventures across Western North America and a regional airline in Saskatchewan.

Mr. Harradence was active at the highest level of the Liberal Party of Canada, including being co-chair of the 1980 national party convention in Winnipeg, MB. His pro bono work for the Anglican Church of Canada – 42 years as the Chancellor of the Diocese of Saskatchewan and Prolocutor (Co-Chair) of the 1980 to 1983 National Anglican Synods – resulted in a Doctorate of Canon Law from the College of Emmanuel & St. Chad, University of Emmanuel College, as well as the highest honour granted by the Anglican Church of Canada, the Anglican Award of Merit (2007).

“Mr. Harradence was able to achieve a remarkable balance in his life. He enjoyed sports and outdoor activities of all types. He was a member of the University of Saskatchewan swim team and an avid tennis player until his mid-seventies. He enjoyed over 60 years of summers at Prince Albert National Park and, in his later years, winters in Palm Desert, California. He had a talent for architectural design, actively supervising the construction and numerous renovations of the family home in Prince Albert, the conversion and renovation of historic downtown buildings to professional law offices, personally designing a modern lake front cabin at Waskesiu Lake, and renovation of the condo in California.

He was an enthusiastic cook, a gracious host, and a principled presence at the head of our family table at every important occasion. He had an unwavering commitment to his faith and family and took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren Celia & Adam (Hugh), William & Aidan (Keith) and Simone & Luc (James). Perhaps his defining characteristic would be that of passionate and vigorous defender of anyone in need.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Helen (nee Martin); his four sons: David (Lisa) of Prince Albert, Keith (Susan) of London, England, The Honourable Judge Hugh M. Harradence (Sue) of Prince Albert and James (Michele) of Calgary; his sister-in-law Catherine Harradence of Calgary and his niece Catherine C. Harradence, of Calgary. He was predeceased by his brother Mr. Justice A. Milton Harradence (2008) of Calgary; his nephew Rod Harradence (1986) of Calgary and his nephew Bruce Harradence (2003) of Mesa, Arizona. The family are thankful for the understanding care which Clyne received during his stay at Mont St. Joseph’s Home. Those wishing to make memorial donations are encouraged to consider the St Alban’s Endowment Fund or the Mont St. Joseph’s Foundation. Funeral Service will be held at The Cathedral Church of St. Alban The Martyr, 1410 Bishop McLean Crescent, Prince Albert, SK on Friday March 23, 2012 at 2:00 pm. Interment will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.grays.ca. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Gray’s Funeral Chapel, Drew Gray, Funeral Director.
 

• Date : 2012-03-17 06:00:00
• Location : Prince Albert, SK