John Leonard Harper

June 28, 1947 - September 30, 2024

~ a life well lived ~

John Leonard Harper, 77, of Chilliwack, BC left us peacefully on September 30, 2024, surrounded by his family and love. John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and best friend. He was always ready for a challenge or to help with someone else's.

Born in Chilliwack, BC on June 28, 1947, to his father, John Davison (Jack) Harper and Welsh mother, Ivy Ann (Pat)Wilson, he was in the third generation of Harpers to be born in Canada along with his sister Linda.

He could often be found fixing something on his 1977 GMC Classic motorhome or helping GMC Cascaders Club members with their motorhomes. John was active in the local sailing community. Before retirement, he was out sailing in the Gulf Islands, Howe Sound, or points south every weekend. After retiring in 2012, he sailed his 1985 Hylas 42 to the Sea of Cortez and spent 5 winters there on board. Other times, you would find him out walking Pep-Eh. He could be seen wearing his signature"retirement uniform"of white t-shirt and khaki shorts every day.

John had a 46-year career in the hospitality industry. From his start as a busboy at the Copper Room at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort he became Maître D' at some of the hottest Vancouver dining spots in the 1970's - 1980's. He led Spectra Design and Development and was VP at ABC Country Restaurants. He served as a BC Restaurant and Food Association (BCRFA) Board member and as BCRFA Chairman of the Board. There's a good chance he may have greeted, seated, or served you!

In front of many family and friends, John & Deb"Tied the Knot"on August 18, 2014. John then married Deb, the love of his life, on January 16, 2017, in a small ceremony in the front room of Don & Elaine Patten's Chilliwack home. Their blended family has 4 children and 8 grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife, Debbie; his sister Elaine Patten, his children Meredith and Jackson (Natalie); stepchildren Saskia and Tyler (Emily); nieces Lee Ann Marsh (Geoff), Ember Fedirko (Justin), nephew Robert Michael Patten (Tracy); grandchildren Madeleine, Wells, Briar, Ellis and step grandchildren Davis, Jenna, Charles, Adeleine. He loved his family with his whole heart.

John was predeceased by his father Jack Harper; mother Pat Burgess; sister Linda Hill, stepfather Wilf Burgess; brother-in-law Don Patten; cousin Bruce Harper and his beloved pup, Pep-Eh.

A celebration of John will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 2 pm at Vancouver Golf Club, 771 Austin Avenue, Coquitlam, BC. All are welcome. Hot dogs will be served, and champagne will be sabered. White T-shirts are encouraged. Please donate to Chilliwack Hospice Society in lieu of flowers.

The family would like to thank the angels at Cascade Hospice for their kindness, caring and compassion.