Harold T. Slavinski

Celebrating the Life of Harold Tyson Slavinski

September 20, 1934 – February 28, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Harold Tyson Slavinski, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. Harold passed away peacefully in Encinitas, California, on February 28, 2025, at the age of 90.

Harold was born on September 20, 1934, in Egg Harbor, New Jersey, to Joseph and Kathryn Slavinski. Growing up in Egg Harbor, he developed a deep love for sports and the outdoors.

As a teenager, Harold was actively involved in athletics and school activities. He served as class president of his junior year, was captain of the Egg Harbor High football team, and was a proud member of the Key Club. He also owned a 1937 Chevy, which ran most of the time. It was during this time that he met Joan, the love of his life, at a St. Patrick’s Day dance. The two dated throughout the rest of Harold’s high school years, enjoying drive-in movies, boardwalk strolls, visits to Steel Pier in Atlantic City, and dancing to the Big Bands.

After graduating high school, Harold enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, seeking adventure and the opportunity to learn a trade. He completed boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina, and was later stationed at Camp Pendleton to attend radio school. Before being deployed to Korea, he returned home on leave and proposed to Joan.

Harold and Joan were married on July 16, 1955, at the Church of the Assumption in Pomona, New Jersey. Shortly after, they moved to Oceanside, California, where Harold completed his military service.

After his time in the Marines, Harold and Joan decided to stay in California to pursue greater opportunities. Harold began a career in electronics, a booming industry in San Diego at the time. As the industry slowed, he transitioned into construction, a field he had developed an interest in after adding an addition to their home in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. He found joy in building, craftsmanship, cabinetry, and furniture making. His meticulous work could be found not only in his own home but also in his children's homes and even St. Mark's Catholic Church in San Marcos, CA, where he handcrafted several furniture pieces. Even at 70 years old, Harold was still lifting full sheets of plywood by himself.

Harold and Joan later moved their family to San Marcos, CA, embracing country life and supporting their children’s 4-H animal projects. Harold fully embraced the cowboy lifestyle, always fixing fences, loading animals for fairs, and driving the kids to their many activities. Though it was hard work, he loved every moment of it.

A true outdoorsman, Harold loved camping and fishing. Every family vacation included both. He had the patience of a saint, hauling four kids across the country in a Volkswagen van for countless miles. Later in life, he continued this tradition by hauling his grandkids on camping and fishing trips, creating cherished memories that they will hold dear forever. They all loved those moments with him, sharing in his passion for the great outdoors and adventure.

Later in life, Harold and Joan moved to Pagosa Springs, Colorado, seeking the beauty of the mountains and the adventure of retirement. However, Harold was never one to sit still—he started a construction business, building custom homes in the breathtaking surroundings of Pagosa Springs.

It was inspiring that they were so intentional with where they lived, getting to know the place and enjoying it fully. Like their love for the blue grass festivals.

Eventually, Harold and Joan returned to Southern California due to the high altitude, settling in Champagne Village, where they enjoyed an active social life. Harold never passed up an opportunity for a potluck, morning coffee, or a dance. As they slowed down, they moved to Silvergate Assisted Living in San Marcos, where Harold remained the life of the party—always front and center at gatherings, happy hours, and dances.

Harold’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will always be remembered. His love and guidance will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He was a good man, one who never met a stranger he didn’t like. His passing leaves a profound void in the close circle of family and friends he so deeply cherished. However, we find comfort in the countless memories he gifted us—memories that will carry us through the sadness.

Harold is survived by his beloved wife, Joan, of nearly 70 years, as well as:

Daughters: Michele McLain, Donna Johnson (Donald Johnson), and Lynn Esposito (David Esposito)

Son: Michael Slavinski (Lynne Slavinski)

Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Knights of Columbus, an organization that was dear to Harold’s heart. He first joined the Knights at St. John’s in Encinitas CA. He continued to serve at St. Marks. He achieved the fourth Degree of Membership.

Send Donations to: Knights of Columbus, St. Marks Catholic Church, 1147 Discovery Street, San Marcos CA

Services

A Catholic Mass will be held in his honor at St. Mark’s Church in San Marcos, California, on March 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM. A family gathering will follow in the Church Hall.

Please leave a comment on the Tributes Wall if you plan to attend the mass and Church Hall gathering

A full military burial will take place at a later date.

Harold’s love, laughter, and larger-than-life presence will remain with us forever.

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