Henry “Hank” Mountain
Hank beloved father, grandfather, brother and dear friend passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer at the Whitehorse General Hospital.
Hank was born in Quebec City, Quebec. His fond memories reach back to when he was a young boy during a much simpler time; his father building a summer house beside the river, his summers spent running carefree down dirt roads and his favorite past time fishing off the summer house porch overhanging the river. His love of fishing developed over the years into fly fishing. He was proud to see that his passion for boating and fishing has passed on through the family line right down to his granddaughter.
He started his career as Radar Operator in the air force where he met and married Norma. He was a police constable in the Quebec City Police for 15 years. Hank & his former wife Norma raised four boys and one daughter. They eventually moved the family to Fort St. John B.C. in 1980 where he went to work driving truck in the oil patch.
In 1986 he moved to Whitehorse. The four oldest children moved away from Ft. St John and ventured out into their own careers while his youngest son David remained in Whitehorse. Hank continued as a truck driver on short hauls to faro and Skagway into the early 90’s. He then ventured onto the deejay scene and partnered as dance instructor for a few years; and spent the latter years with his Ink Refill business.
Hank was generally known as a reserved man although he enjoyed catching you off guard with his quick wit and colorful sense of humour. He loved fishing, hockey and dancing. The 202 and Roadhouse were his favorite stops. He will be remembered for his smooth dance style, always the first on the dance floor; putting everyone in the mood; encouraging the shy new dancers, charming and challenging the others to improve.
Lastly he had a dream to visit China…he realized that dream and made 5 trips in the last years of his life.
Hank is survived by his children Danny, Brenda, (Dave), Carey (Florence), Michael (Cindy), David (Lori), 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; brothers Bob and Lee.
Hank is predeceased by his father Albert Mountain, mother Germaine Bernier and youngest brother Richard (Dick) and his former wife Norma.
A Special thank you goes out to Dr. Morash, Homecare and Whitehorse General Hospital for their exceptional care and support. Also thank you to Heritage North Funeral Home for all their help and arrangements.
Ed Johnston
I drove with Hank on the Faro to Skagway run and knew him well. there used to be a standing joke that Hank never worked weekends, he was dancing.
We continued on with Hank using his refill business after we all quit driving.
Rest in peace my friend, you were a good man and will be missed.
KATHERINE DECECCO
When I arrived in 1988 Hank was one of the first people I met. Over the years we had man, many dances together. May he RIP and be dancing with the Angels. Condolences to David and the rest of the family.
Debbie Taylor
Condolences to David and family