David Harper

He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Sharron; his four children, Bill (Lisa), Doug, Heather and Christopher (Chelsea); seven grandchildren; Bailli, Tess, Hayden, Kendrah, Donovan, Desmond, and Darius; and two great grandchildren, Adalyn and Chloe.

David was born in Chesterfield, England where he spent his boyhood and early adult years. After meeting Sharron in Port Alberni, they were married in England on January 6, 1974, returning afterwards to settle here where he worked for most of his remaining years at the Somass Mill.

In his personal life, he loved fishing and had a deep affection for his dogs and all other animals. He could often be seen walking the dogs each day, greeting all his dog-walking friends as they went.

He also gave back to his community as a volunteer driver for the Echo Village Bus and was a fatihful and active member of the Legion and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, participating in numerous charitable activities over the years.

David was predeceased in England by his parents and his sister, Beryl. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Peter Gouldethorpe and the families of his nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In Canada he is survived by his brother-in-law, Mike and Lori Keetch and families of their boys, Greg and Troy in Kamloops along with nephew, John Melling Jr. (Margaret) and Terri Lynn Reif (Jim) of Victoria. David was predeceased by Sharron's sister, Joanne Melling and her husband, John Sr as well as Liz Moore and husband, Bob.

David was a quiet and private person who deeply loved and cared for his family and friends and was always willing to help anyone in need.

He will be sadly missed by all who knew him and fondly remembered for his selfless nature and the positive impact he had on his community and loved ones.

He was gentle and good natured and had a fun sense of humour. He enjoyed teasing those he loved and bringing a smile to everyone's face with his sense of humour, generosity and kind heart.

Cremation has taken place. There was no formal service at David's request.

An Open House is planned for January 6th, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at 4597 Glenside Crescent in Port Alberni.