Harold A. Trainer

With deep love and remembrance, we mark the passing of Harold A. Trainer, who departed this life on July 30, 2026, at the age of 83.

Harold was born on November 1, 1942, to his parents, Harold and Mary Trainer in Warwick, Rhode Island. In his formative years, Harold was a dedicated athlete across a number of different sports. A passion that would follow him his entire life, staying on the diamond as an umpire, and in his senior softball league well into his later years.

Harold’s commitment to duty led him from teaching in the classroom in Providence, Rhode Island, to the rank of Major the U.S. Airforce, earning a number of medals including the Bronze Star Medal during the Vietnam War. It was there, amidst his service to his country, that he met Carol Ann Rawert, the beloved companion who would share his next 58 years. Their partnership was one marked by a love for family and a spirit of adventure. Together, they built a vibrant family; whether residing in Virginia, New York, Okinawa, California, or Kentucky, their dedication to family created a sense of home wherever they lived.

Through every chapter, Harold’s devotion to Carol was matched only by his dedication to their children. Though he is now reunited with his cherished wife, Carol, his beloved son Ryan, his brother Claude, his parents, and his dog Pax, Harold’s legacy is upheld by those he leaves behind: his daughters, Kristianne and Natasha; his four grandchildren, Dillon, Taya, Aidon, and Makenzie, whose lives he touched deeply as an ever-present supporter, source of encouragement, and joyful grandfather. His canine companion Tahoe now keeps watch at home, a gentle reminder of the simple joy he found in life.

Harold’s life was one of action–for peace, for justice, for fellowship. Together with Carol, he led the Louisville Chapter of Veterans For Peace, championing a world guided by compassion over conflict. The two also lent their voices and efforts to the Louisville Peace Action Community, inspiring others with their conviction. He was an avid reader and writer, regularly sharing his opinion and viewpoint for print in the Courier Journal. Driven by faith, Harold’s spiritual journey brought him to the community of Epiphany Catholic Church, where he served and worshipped with the same diligence that marked his daily life.

In his later years, Harold found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He delighted in conversation and companionship. Whether out riding his bike, engaging with friends, reading, attending Louisville Bats games, or investing time and heart in his grandchildren, Harold exemplified the virtues of hard work, humility, generosity and kindness.

All who crossed Harold’s path will find themselves forever enriched by his warmth, wit, and unwavering values. His memory echoes not only in stories and photographs, but also in the peaceful confidence and embrace of family, friends and community whose lives he so avidly supported.

Visitation for Harold A. Trainer will be held on Friday, August 7, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Epiphany Catholic Church, 914 Old Harrods Creek Road, Louisville, KY. Mass at 11:00 a.m., offering prayerful remembrance for a life so well-lived, with a luncheon to follow at the church. Harold will be laid to rest at 2:30 p.m. that afternoon at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery, 4701 Brownsboro Road, Louisville, KY, a fitting place of honor for a man who so faithfully served.

Though farewells weigh heavy, Harold’s enduring spirit is woven into the very fabric of those who survive him. May his legacy of compassion, joy, and quiet leadership serve always as a gentle beacon–guiding, uplifting, and inspiring us all.