Hartley Oliver Moore

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hartley Moore, at Northern Heights Long-term Care Home, North Bay, on March 17, 2026, at the age of 91.  Loved husband of Sherry; loving father of Marla (Kerry pre-deceased), Peter (Karen), Laurie, and Kerry (Peter); Grandfather of Ryan (Micheline), Matt (Lyne), Kelsey (Jessie), Jacob (Codie), Taylor (Kate), Jordan (Tom), Justine (Nate), Beau (Liz); Beloved Great-Grandfather of Kylie, Matthew, Ali, Madison, Mason, Bryce, Laken, Gavin, Leah, Amelia, Hartley, Rhett, Ryann, Reign and Cole.  Hartley was predeceased by his loving parents, Oliver and Jeannette “Nettie”, and his siblings Duff, Geraldine and June.  Also predeceased before him are his much-loved brothers-in-law, Ron (Donna) and Ron (Carol). 

Hartley was a lifelong entrepreneur, a trait that was inherited from his family before him.  He built a life and a legacy for which he and his family are deeply proud.  Born and raised in Loring, he laid down roots and raised his own family there in the same house in which he grew up.  He was with the love of his life, Sherry, from the age of 14, and they recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.  

Hartley played an important role in supporting the family business around the age of 16, helping transport mail, goods, and passengers down the line from Trout Creek.  He took over the mail truck business in 1965, and it was operated by the family for approximately 75 years.  What began as adventure by horse drawn carriage and sleigh, evolved over the years into stage coaches and motor vehicles.  Hartley bought his first school bus at age 22, and for over 40 years he provided memorable rides out Highway 522 – one memory includes hitting a deer, which he brought home with him on the bus! Hartley’s son Peter is still operating school buses in the area, and the tradition of memorable rides continues.

You could find Hartley in his earlier years with a White Owl cigar in hand. Hartley and his family successfully owned and operated a tourist camp for 54 years, which is now a fourth-generation family-owned business.  In 1980, Hartley was instrumental in obtaining the Ministry approval to create the Argyle Fish Enhancement Program, which is still in operation today.  Hartley could be found in one of five large gardens he would have on the go.  It was a family affair to process the many tomatoes he would grow, usually several hundred quarts a season.  Hartley loved to tap countless trees to make maple syrup, and he was still enjoying this into his eighties – he expected his family to help, and they did.   Hartley loved a good sale, and one of anything was never enough.

Cherished memories of family and new-found friends alike include the “Hartley Tours” he would give, providing his extensive knowledge of the history of the area.  The hours Hartley spent with his family, nurturing his many friendships, cutting grass, and planting seeds in the places that he loved are immeasurable.  We’ll think of him as his wildflowers bloom.   Take care of the land, live within your means, don’t let anything go to waste.  If you see an opportunity, take it… and have ice cream for breakfast!     

Thank you to the staff of Cedar Lodge and Northern Heights for their care and compassion during Hartley’s difficult journey. We are truly grateful.

The family will celebrate his life privately.   In lieu of flowers and if desired, donations could be made to any local charity of choice, or KENNY Kids (email: kennyinargyle@gmail.com).  Condolences for the family can be directed to Sherry Moore at Barclay Senior Residence – 600 Chippewa St W., North Bay, ON  P1B 9E7. Additionally, condolences, memories and photos can be shared at paulfuneralhome.ca.