Obituary of Jerry Harper

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FUNERAL SERVICE FOR JERRY

HARPER; Gerald Roy

Gerald Roy Harper (Jerry), a resident of Buckhorn, Ontario, passed away on January 20, 2024, in Peterborough, Ontario. 

Born on September 11, 1950, to Doris and Roy Harper, he was a beloved brother to Kenn Harper (Kathleen) and Gord Harper (Sally).

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon, their son Jedediah/Jed (Dalya), and their loyal canine companion, Ginger, Brother-in-Law Paul Tolman (Lisa), Sister-in-Law Julia Watson (Wayne) and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry spent his formative years in Newmarket, Ontario and in 1974, he embarked on an adventurous journey to the Arctic.  Later that year, he would marry and be joined by his loving wife Sharon, on their many adventures.

Jerry's professional journey took flight in 1979 when he commenced his aerospace career at DeHavilland. Starting from the factory floor, he ascended to a managerial role, later contributing his expertise to companies such as Boeing and Bombardier. A specialist in out-of-production aircraft like the Twin Otter and Beaver, Jerry earned the respect of his peers.

A true enthusiast of hot rods, Jerry loved his 1940 Ford Tudor Sedan, his award-winning 1934 Chevy, and he poured his passion into his beloved 1933 Ford Panel Truck and T-Bucket. These cars and others showcased his dedication to the craft.

Jerry found joy in the melodies of artists like Jimmy Buffett and John Prine, embracing the spirit of outlaw country music. An avid supporter of the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Blue Jays, he also enjoyed playing Wordle and other word games and was renowned for baking a mean coconut cream pie.

Beyond his mechanical pursuits, Jerry was known for his unwavering honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His 49-year marriage to his loving wife Sharon was a testament to enduring love and companionship. At the age of 73, he faced glioblastoma, an incurable brain tumor, with courage, showcasing the strength that defined him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES -LAKEFIELD CHAPEL 66 Queen Street Lakefield, on Thursday February 1, 2024, at 1:00PM. Visitation will commence at 12 pm. A reception will follow the service, in the Heritage Room of the funeral home. To watch the service live streamed, please visit www.hendrenfuneralhome.com and click on the link on Jerry's memorial page.

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Sunnybrook Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research, or to Hospice Peterborough by clicking on the respective link, or by calling 705 652-3355.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Sunnybrook Hospital (Odette Centre) for their support during Jerry’s battle and to Dr. Mallory and the compassionate team at Peterborough Hospice for their care in his final days.