David Harry Harper

David Harry Harper was born in Los Angeles, California on August 18, 1932 and passed away on February 9, 2022.  His parents were Harry and Lucile Harper, co-founders of St Francis Episcopal Church in Palos Verdes Estates. David and his family moved to Palos Verdes in 1944. He attended Malaga Cove School and graduated from Redondo Union High School in 1950. His high school athletic achievements included basketball and track. David attended UC Berkeley and graduated in 1954 with a degree in Architecture.

David worked for 40 years at several engineering and architectural firms. He joined Eberting International architectural firm in Redondo Beach and designed many local landmarks including Redondo Beach Pier remodel, Hermosa Beach lifeguard station and numerous commercial and residential projects.

He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Marshall in 1956. David and Mary welcomed the birth of their daughter Becky in 1961 and their daughter Hilary in 1967. David’s commitment to his family was evident in how he lived his life. Happy memories include many family road trips and the family’s favorite destination, Hawaii. David and Mary were longtime members of the King Harbor Yacht Club and enjoyed many family adventures sailing to Catalina on their boat “LOKI.” David loved running and competed in numerous 5K’s, 10K’s and half marathons. His favorite race was the Redondo Beach Super Bowl 10K which he ran for 40 consecutive years! David was a devout Christian. He was an active member of St Francis Episcopal Church as an usher, Building and Grounds Committee, Antiques Show. David’s world centered on his family: wife Mary, daughters and their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His integrity, perseverance and devotion to family inspired all who knew him.

He is in the arms of his Savior together with his loving wife Mary of 57 years and his family and friends that loved and preceded him. David leaves behind his daughter and son-in-law Becky and Cameron Wade; daughter and son-in-law Hilary and Tom Pollard; grandchildren Gillian and Dave Bulloch, Emily and William Hinn, David Pollard, Ryan Pollard; and great grandchildren William, Boyd, Ellie, Navy and Benjamin; sister-in-law Beth Marshall; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 4, 2022 at 4PM at St Francis Episcopal Church in Palos Verdes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to: St Francis Episcopal Church, American Diabetes Association, and Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce-Team David.