The original handyman has passed away.

Walter Hachborn, co-founder of Home Hardware, passed away on Friday. He was 95.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our Co-Founder Mr. Walter Hachborn, President Emeritus, at the age of 95. pic.twitter.com/i5fYmpz1z2 — Home Hardware Stores (@home_hardware) December 17, 2016

“Walter was one of those people around the Region of Waterloo who, you really could say was one of the founders or builders of our community,” says Ian McLean, CEO and President of Greater KW Chamber of Commerce.

Last year, Hachborn was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame, which celebrates extraordinary lifetime achievements of business owners.

“He was a fellow who never stopped wanting to learn,” says McLean.

“Even into his nineties, he would go with some of the Home Hardware folks on educational or learning tours to different parts of the world, just to keep up with what was going on around the world, and try and learn new things that might further his own education, but also things or skills or philosophies that he might bring back to the business.”

Hachborn had lived in St Jacobs for most of his life.

“He really has left a legacy as a leader,” says McLean.

“Not only in business, but in shaping the community.”

On behalf of @WRPSToday sending our sympathies to the Hachborn family & friends @home_hardware. Mr. Hachborn leaves a legacy of leadership. https://t.co/9EQdX3K0b6 — Bryan M. Larkin (@Chief_BLarkin) December 17, 2016