Harper, Donald James (Don) died peacefully on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital.
Don was born on June 11, 1936 to George and Edith Harper of Toronto, the youngest of three boys. After graduating from Central Technical School in Toronto, he worked at Bell Canada. It was during his time as a telephone repair technician that he met Isabel (nee Winning), and they married in May 1959. Together they raised their three children, Nancy, Gary and Glen and enjoyed 35 years of marriage. Don was predeceased by Isabel in 1994.
Don joined Xerox Canada in 1965 where he enjoyed a rewarding career over a span of almost 30 years. It was during his post-retirement contract work at Xerox that Don caught the eye of his second wife, Jean Harper (Bruce) and they shared a 25-year marriage. The family grew to include Jean’s daughters Laurie (Paul) Jeffers and Kelly (Craig) Millar. Don and Jean spent 24 years living in Wasaga Beach and moved to Oakville in October 2023. He was exceptionally proud of his six grandchildren Rachel, Jack, Hanna, Claire, Alyssa and Kate. Family meant everything to Don, and he was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones.
Don was a wonderful and devoted father, grandfather and husband. He set a strong example of service to the community as a member of the Kinsmen Club of West Hill for many years. In every aspect of his life, Don made lifelong friends who valued his humour and his warmth. He is remembered as a truly lovely man.
Don is survived by his loving wife Jean, children Nancy, Gary and Glen (Jennifer) Harper, Laurie (Paul) Jeffers and Kelly (Craig) Millar, and his six beloved grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters-in law Bill (Lil) and Bob (Iris).
The family requests that donations be made to Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre in Oshawa. There will be a celebration of life on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre, 625 Birchmount Road, Toronto, ON M1K 1R1.