In Loving Memory of Harold (Hal) Gregory
With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved “Poppa”, Hal Gregory, passed away peacefully at his home in Caledon, Ontario, surrounded by love, on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at the age of 78.
Poppa was the heart of our family. He lived with quiet strength, unwavering generosity, and a love that never faltered. He meant so much to us as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and we feel his absence every single day.
Beloved husband of Pat, loving father to Gavin (Andrea) and Darren (Aubrey), and proud and cherished “Poppa” to Aidan, Noah, Joshua, and Spencer. Dear brother of the late Ken Gregory, Karen Gillespie, and Lynda Coupland. Hal also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, as well as dear friends who loved and respected him deeply.
Hal was a well-known and respected figure in the Bolton and Caledon community. He remained actively involved in the Rotary Club of Bolton long after retiring as Owner/Operator of McDonald’s Bolton, where he served the community for over two decades. Many will fondly remember his warm smile and welcoming presence during their morning coffee and muffin.
Before his time as a restaurateur, Hal built an impressive and impactful career with McDonald’s Canada. What began as a crew position in 1969 at one of the first McDonald’s franchises in London, Ontario, grew into a distinguished leadership journey. He became one of the original officers of McDonald’s Canada, eventually serving as Vice President and National Director of Purchasing, as well as Vice President of Environmental Affairs. His work left a lasting mark on the organization and those he worked alongside.
A celebration of Hal’s life will be held on Thursday, July 17th, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street South (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213).
In place of flowers, the family kindly invites donations in Hal’s memory to Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada (rmhccanada.ca) or the Rotary Club of Bolton (boltonrotary.ca). Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Jennifer Rainford
So sorry to hear of Hal’s passing. He was a wonderful employer of mine at McDonald’s for several years.
Thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at this time.
Jacques Mignault
So sorry to hear about Hal’s passing. I worked alongside him in Montreal. He was a great person and a great leader.
To all family and friends, my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Cam Lindsey
So sorry to hear of Hal’s passing. He was a true polished gentle man and gentleman. Hal had a keen business sense and totally impressed me many years ago ,prior to his Bolton franchise, that he was the buyer for all of the McDonalds restaurants in Canada. Hal was a very interesting man who had many wonderful life experiences.
Condolences to all of the family
Doreen Young
To the Gregory and Clarke families.
I am very, very sorry to learn of Hal’s passing. Such a lovely gentleman who accomplished much and was so respected by family and community. My deepest condolences to all.
Doreen Young
Mary Archer
Pat, sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Hals off the cuff wit and remarkable story telling will be greatly missed by all. You could always count on his friendly smile and willingness to take time to brighten your day. We will cherish the memories we shared with him. RIP Hal
Patrick Parnaby
I don’t know what to say. It’s probably been 35 years, but I can still remember Hal treating me like I was his son when I was 15 years old. He always made you feel welcome and could always make you laugh. In fact, Hal got me my first real job that allowed me to pay my way through university. My deepest condolences to the entire Gregory family. See you soon.
Lynda Parnaby
At this time of unspeakable sadness we send our love and prayers to you Pat and your beautiful boys and families.
Hal was a gentle man loved by so many.
In time, may your happy memories help to sustain you.
Love,
The Parnabys ♥️
Shabana Persaud
My sincere condolences to the family.
Hal was the best Employer and was a very respectful individual with all of at McDonalds employees. Will always remember you and the “FRENCH FRY MAN” Forever in our hearts gone but not forgotten ❤️
Aldo J Villanovich
My dear Pat and your wonderful family, I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of our wonderful Hal.
He was not only a good friend, but also a great Rotarian to the end.
As I moved away from Bolton, I’ve missed seeing him this past few years.
May he rest in peace.
Rory MacKinnon
Hal was a McDonald’s icon. Trailblazer when it came to being a true people orientated leader. Hal invested in his communities and his team. Marlene and I offer our condolences to Darren and the Gregory clan.
John and Jennifer Prober and family
Hal’s spirit shone brightly in every venture we undertook together , and his friendship brought warmth and laughter to those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy in both his professional and personal life will continue to inspire and guide us.
To Hal’s family, know that his memory will forever live on in our hearts. May you find comfort in love and admiration so many held for him. His presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Geciel Cherriguine
Our Deepest Condolences to Gregory Family. This difficult time , Sending you love and strength Nana Pat. Sir Darren, and Gavin. Grandpa Hal You may Rest in Peace. Your memories will remain forever.
Christina Mohan
Sending heartfelt condolences to the Gregory family as you navigate this profound loss.
-Christina Mohan
Jeanne Egan
My deepest condolences to Pat and family. Hal always greeted one with a smile and a kind word. I enjoyed knowing you and Hal, as did Harold. My prayers are with you and your family.
Love Jeanne Egan
Alma Laderoute
Darren,please know we send our deepest condolences to you and your family , may your cherished memories bring comfort at this time
Alma ,Kevin ,Jason
Ladroute and families
Dan Logan
Very sorry to hear about Hal’s passing. Always enjoyed working with and learning from Hal in Bolton, and his passion for his family, community and business was incredible.
My thoughts and prayers to all the family and friends impacted.
Louie Mele
Deepest Condolences to the family…..R.I.P……..Truly Louie
Terry Brazill
Hal was a great friend to many. i personally owe him a lot for the mentoring he gave me when I was a young manager. He made a difference. REST in PEACE Hal, thanks for all you’ve done
Mary Anne
Hal was a great leader over many yrs and I always enjoyed his work ethic and his smile. My thoughts and prayers are w the family.
Ralph Sgro
Hal was a true leader in the Canadian McDonald’s story. He was a big part of the original leadership led by George and Ed that established the foundation and culture of today’s McDonald’s.
Hal also was a great mentor to many in the corporation and a great friend to everyone in both the Corporate and Franchisee communities.
He will be greatly missed by all…
Sincere condolences to Pat and all the family.
Ralph and Susan Sgro
John Hadfield
So sorry to hear about Pat’s passing a couple of days ago.
Condolences to Pat and the family.
Pat Donahue
My friendship with Hal goes back to 1970 when I was running the Ottawa market and Hal was a Supervisor in Toronto and we both attended Ed Garber’s weekly meetings. Hal remained Hal throughout his long and successful career, a good guy and a good friend. Will forever have fond memories of our friendship. My condolences to Pat and family.
Michelle Hayward
Darren and Family,
My deepest condolences for the loss of Hal. I appreciate the time I spent with Hal and the team in Bolton. I enjoyed the conversations and learnings of Hal’s journey with McDonald’s. I will miss that warm smile.
John Davis
Hal was one of my early mentors whose keen business sense and leadrship served the company in so many ways throughout his impressive career. He also blended a sense of fun with a strong work ethic and supported our very special Canadian culture. To Pat and family I offer my sincere condolences.
Karen Symons
Dear Pat. Though it has been many years since I have seen You and Hal, my memories from Montreal ring strong. I am so sorry for your loss.
Larry and Heather McCormick
Dearest Pat, we send our deepest condolences to you and family, for Hal.
Hal was a great colleague and a great friend.
Larry and Heather
David and Sheila Lewis and family
Pat, Gavin, Darren and family
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of a special husband, father and grandfather
Hal touched many lives in such a special way, whether it was through work, community service or family.
Hal truly had a gift for making people around him feel seen and valued
Treasure your memories you shared, whether they be big or small, the laughs and all the lessons along the way. All your stories will keep him close.
With deepest Sympathy ❤️
George Mencke
Hal Was one of a kind. Hal was very serious about The McDonald’s business. But he could always incorporate a sense of fun in what he was doing. I work with Hal on a number of projects.
He was creative, dedicated, and most of all very kind and considerate, and he had a wicked sense of humor. I enjoyed working with Hal as well as socializing with him and his family.
Hal will be missed. I offer my sincere sympathy to Pat and the rest of the family.
John & Vanda Adoluca
Dear Pat, Gavin, Darren & family,
It saddens me to write these words about my dear friend & colleague,Hal.His friendship and leadership qualities have resonated with me over the years .A “better teacher” I could not have asked for .He taught me many important life lessons that will remain with me for the rest of my life.
I will never forget this calm & gentle man who was my dearest friend. I will miss our phone calls & regular chats & our exchanging of birthday wishes every year. Vanda & I were so glad to spend a day with Hal & you, Pat at your home a few months ago. We were saddened by the visible signs of his frailty but he never lost his positive look on life.
R.I.P MY DEAR FRIEND HAL.
AND UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN
MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND.
John & Vanda
Danielle Venditello
I’m so sorry to hear of Hal’s passing. I have such fond memories of when he would come in to work the fry station, was always the calm in the chaos. Sending all my love to the whole family during this difficult time.
Jenna Adoluca
I will always have fond memories of Hal, and his friendship with my dad John throughout the years.
He’s one of the McD’s legends, who inspired me to follow in my dad’s footsteps.
My heartfelt condolences to Pat, Gavin, Darren and the entire family.
Hal will most definitely be missed.
With big hugs,
Jenna Adoluca & Family
Tania Gubert
Darren and family,
My deepest condolences for your loss. I will always have fond memories of Hal’s warm smile and gentle nature. He was a role model to so many and his values will live on in every heart he’s touched.
Sending love and prayers through this difficult time.
Ron Sutherland
Very sorry to hear of Hal’s passing. I enjoyed working with him thru the years in Montreal and Toronto. Sincere condolences to all the family during this difficult time.
Kevin Maguire
Pat & Family
Words at this time don’t replace the pain and loss you are going through losing a partner of more than half a century.
He was as sharp as a tack, quick witted, had that grin of the cat that just ate the mouse and not afraid to tackle any challenge.
Simone and I offer deepest sympathies.
Jennifer Pannunzio
Pat, Darren, Aubrey, Gavin & Andrea,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Hal’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences to the entire family. Hal was a remarkable and generous man who made my boys feel like part of the family. His kindness and warmth touched many lives, and it’s evident from all the messages that he has left a lasting legacy.
On behalf of my family, Marc, Lucas, and Alex, I want to pass on our love and sympathy during this difficult time. Hal’s memory will forever be cherished.
With deepest sympathy,
Jenni
Sonia Trogi-Ménard
Both Raymond & I were very saddened to hear about Hal’s passing. I can remember him so clearly at the office back in the early days … he was a pleasure to work with and always had that mischievous grin! Time is such a thief… where have all those years gone?! But, we are thankful that we had them along with all the fond memories. May your memories bring you solace during this difficult time.
Sonia Trogi-Ménard & Raymond Ménard
Fionna and Graham Ferguson
We are saddened to hear of Hal’s passing. We have memories of Hal and your family when we lived across the road. He achieved such a lot in his life and will be remembered for bringing McDonalds to Bolton. Sending you our sincere condolences and hope that your happy memories will be a comfort in the days ahead.
Melissa Speirs Osland
Pat, Darren, Gavin , and to those he held dearly,
My deepest condolences on the loss of a Dad , husband, and a grandfather. He has left a valuable legacy for his family and community.
Melissa Speirs Osland
Rem Langan
Hal was one of a kind … such a wonderful sense of humour and intellect .. at the board room table or the card table he was so much fun to be with and always incredibly supportive .. such a great human being … Condolences to Pat and the Gregory family .
Dr. Yehiel and Maria Meghory
To the Gregory Family,
Our sincerest sympathies on the recent passing of Hal. He was truly a gentleman. May your sweet memories of him, bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Dr. Yehiel and Maria Meghory
Ron Reaves
So sorry about Hal leaving us, a great leader and all round great person, I am blessed to be able to call him a friend, condolences to all the family.
Jeff Derbyshire
My condolences go out to Darren, Gavin, and Pat and everyone who knew this amazing man. Hal was such a witty, fun, and smart man that I looked up to. He was so good to me in my youth and he treated me and all of Darren’s friends like family. I have many good memories of Hal, Experiencing Las Vegas for the first time with Hal and his friends is one that I will always cherish. They don’t make ’em like Hal anymore.
The Brown family
Condolences from the Brown family. So many great memories with Uncle Hal. All the fun times in Montreal and at the old Forum to fun in the sun down in Florida. RIP Uncle Hal and we know you’re enjoying a Bacardi or two in heaven
Jimmy Liu
Dear Pat and Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Hal’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Hal was more than just a mentor—he was like family to me. He gave me my very first opportunity in Canada 25 years ago, a gesture that changed the course of my life. I will forever be grateful for his trust, support, and the kindness he and you both extended to me from the very beginning.
Hal was a true icon in McDonald’s Canada history, and his leadership, vision, and integrity left a lasting legacy. But beyond all his professional achievements, it’s the warmth, generosity, and humility he carried that I will remember most.
My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that you are surrounded by love and support, and that Hal’s memory lives on in all of us whose lives he touched.
With deepest sympathy,
Jimmy, Sandra, Lisa & Daniel
Andrew Tomlinson
My condolences to the Gregory family. I wouldn’t be where I am now without Hal recruiting me into McDonalds. Hal was a kind and generous man . I will miss his laugh. Our McFamily has lost a loved one
Lynda Archibald
Pat
So sorry to hear about Hal’s passing. I moved to Rosedale Village about 4 years ago and don’t always hear the news till later.
You are in my prayers.