John Warren Harned

John, an over 50-year resident of Denman Island, died peacefully in care at Ocean Front Village in Courtenay. He was born in Pennsylvania, the son of Paul and Claire Harned, joining siblings James, Michael, and Patricia. He attended Oberlin Conservatory of Music where he mastered grand piano, pipe organ and harpsichord. He shared his exceptional gift as he accompanied choirs, ballet classes and memorably, laboured on the old Denman Anglican Church pump organ on Christmas Eve.

His musical artistry took visual form when he began creating stained glass windows and panels. His custom work can be found at St. George’s United Church in Courtenay, Denman United Church, Denman Island Medical Clinic, Denman Community Hall, and in many homes on Denman and beyond. In 1993, he attended Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State, founded by Dale Chihuly. And thus, began a new chapter of John’s work - kiln-fired, fused glass. His brilliant multi-coloured, etched and enameled plates and bowls are cherished treasures. John’s music and glass art leave a legacy of precision, expressiveness, patience and the love of form.

He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Lily Harned and Lia Terheide; grandchildren Beatrice, Madeleine, Aurora and Cohen; stepdaughters Gabrielle, Sophie and Charlotte; grandchildren Evangeline, Julian and Lennox; former partners Karen Weingeist, Patti Willis and Gail Barrow.

We are so grateful for the support of skilled and compassionate caregivers at North Island Hospital and Ocean Front Village who comforted and cared for John. We also thank Dr. Jody Taylor, Farm to Family and the staff of the Denman General Store on whom John relied during his last years on Denman.

“Limitless undying love which shines around me like a million suns, it calls me on and on across the universe.”

{John Lennon}