Obituary of John Robert Harper

In loving memory of John Robert Harper

April 17, 1942 - June 19, 2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Robert Harper on June 19, 2026, at the age of 84. 

Born on April 17th, 1942, to Charles and Margaret Harper, and later stepson to Rose. He was a cherished brother to Charles (Shirley), Margaret (Floyd) and Catherine (Luke). John grew up valuing hard work, loyalty, family and service to others. Those values would become the foundation of a remarkable life.

He was the beloved husband of Christine who he was blessed to share his life with for 23 years. He was the proud father of Colleen (Owen), Angela, Melanie (Chris), Michael (Katie), Brian (Amanda) and a loving step father to Emily, Laura, and Jessica (Lyle). He was a respected and loved grandfather to Ava, Gabriel, Sophie, Max, Chloe, Blake, Lily, Emilia, Ezra, Maggie, Owen, Lisa (Nico) and great grandchildren Isla and Hugo. Survived by sister Catherine and sister in law Shirley. Predeceased by daughter Angela, grandson Owen, mother Margaret, father Charles, stepmother Rose, brother Charles, sister Margaret, brothers in law Floyd and Luke.

John proudly served his country in the Navy serving on the HMCS Bonaventure, Canada's last air craft carrier before embarking on a rewarding career as a firefighter with the London Fire Department dedicating his life to protecting others. In 1980 John proudly drove the firetruck leading the Terry Fox parade through London. Whether in uniform or in everyday life, John was always the first to lend a hand, tell a joke or help someone through a difficult time. 

After retiring, he volunteered with St. Joseph's Hospital, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Mental Health Association. In spite of his physical challenges, he lived a full and vibrant life impacting everyone who met him. His sense of humour and love of people, animals, nature and music were infectious and made the world a better place.

His passing leaves a void that can never truly be filled, but his legacy lives on in every life he touched. Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that a life so well lived leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations. John Robert Harper will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

The family extends sincere thanks to the Palliative Care team at home, doctors, nurses and PSWs for their compassion and care. 

There will be a visitation at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street, on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 pm. A funeral will be held at St. Peter's Basilica, 196 Dufferin Avenue, on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 1:00 pm, followed by a reception at HMCS Prevost, 19 Becher Street, from 2:00 – 5:00 pm.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Ark Aid Mission, St. Peter's Basilica, or a charity of your choice.