IN LOVING MEMORY OF
R Harry
Gnong
June 5, 1952 – November 12, 2022
Harry Gnong, loving father and friend to many, peacefully passed while surrounded by family,
on November 12, 2022, at the age of 70 in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
Harry is predeceased by his loving mother, Shirley McCarthy, and is survived by his daughter; Hannah Gnong, and brother; Garry Gnong, both of Sandwich. He also leaves behind close family friend; Joseph Angellis, his beloved spaniel; Ringo, and an incredibly supportive community.
From an early age Harry began working in various restaurants, an industry which would become a lifelong avenue to some of his greatest accomplishments. Despite always having a love for hospitality and bringing people together, it wasn't until Harry traveled to England that he found his true calling. His interest in Great Britain and his love for pubs ignited his passion and cultivated his dream to open a British pub here in the states. In 1997 that dream came to fruition when he became the founder and co-owner of the British Beer Company. Harry had found his niche.
Harry dedicated his life to creating spaces where people could relax, eat good food, drink great beer, connect with their neighbors, and support local musicians and artists. Always an advocate for his employees, he personified his philosophy of working in unison as a team and would lend a hand whenever needed, proving no task was beneath him. A generous glass of wine signified the end of Harry's work day and was often enjoyed in the company of the frequenters of the "naughty corner" at the Sandwich BBC.
Harry felt most at home when he was behind the bar. He was kind to people, he made them laugh and he built relationships with customers that often evolved into friendships. It was not uncommon for Harry to make a weekly appearance during Hannah's Friday night bar shift - a dynamic that will never be forgotten. Harry will be remembered for the way he made people feel and the way he captivated them with his stories, although some (most) of us have heard the same one more than once.
Harry's knack for entertaining spilled into his own home, where he loved to cook for and serve his friends and family. Many were lucky enough to partake in his famous Glögg (Glurg) prepared for holidays and special occasions.
A spirited Boston sports fan, and Beatles aficionado, it was not uncommon to hear the melody of "Hey Jude" set to the voice of Dennis Eckersley calling a Red Sox game as Harry enjoyed a cigar and a good scotch. With his eclectic and bold approach to life, you might have found him perusing local antique shops, riding his motorcycle west on Route 6A, or curating his next tattoo.
Above all else, Harry's greatest love was for his daughter, Hannah. From the early years of cheering her on at horse shows, to teaching her to properly pour a Guinness, Harry was a constant in Hannah's life, and she in his. She will forever carry with her, his incredible wit, hilarious satire, and penchant for grabbing life by the balls.
In lieu of flowers, Hannah wishes family and friends to gather to honor Harry and his legacy in true Gnong fashion. A celebration of life will be held at The Local Tavern and Grille in Sandwich, Ma on Sunday, November 20, 2022 at 2PM. Friends and family are encouraged and welcomed to raise a pint and pay tribute to a life well lived, loved and enjoyed. And lastly, when you find your glass near empty and are contemplating another, recall the wise words of Harry Gnong … "it would be rude not to".
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