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OWEN HARPER, DFC
Born: Mar 27, 1916
Date of Passing: Nov 04, 2004
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
OWEN HARPER, DFC Suddenly, on November 4, 2004, Owen Harper of Parksville, BC, formerly Gimli, MB passed away at Nanaimo Regional and District Hospital, Nanaimo, BC at the age of 88. Mr. Harper was born in Winnipeg on March 27, 1916 and attended Kelvin High School. During his school years he participated in various athletic events. He was a member of the Young Mens Unit of the Royal Canadian Legion where he served as 1st Vice President until enlisting in the RCAF in 1940. He was employed by the CNR before and after his five years of service in the Second World War and moved on to work with the Royal Canadian Legion as Assistant Secretary, retiring in 1975. Mr. Harper joined the RCAF in 1940, serving in England as a rigger where he attained the rank of Sgt1, and then transferred to the RAF and trained as a Flight Engineer in Wales. During this time he was attached to Squadrons 418, 408, 427, 434, and 425 Bomber Command, 6 group. Upon being commissioned he became Flight Engineer Leader of 425 and 408 squadron, serving with distinction and was decorated twice for his bravery. Mr. Harper was a life member of the Royal Canadian Legion where he held many offices. He was also a member of Lodge 371, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen for many years, serving in various capacities. In 1977, Owen and Alice moved to Gimli, MB, leaving briefly to live in Stonewall for a few years and after Alices passing, Owen moved to Parksville in 2004. Owen was predeceased by his father (Owen Sr.) in 1917, his mother (Winnifred) in 1963, his wife (Alice) in 2003. He is survived by his two sons, Griffin Harper (Edith), of Parksville and Shaun Harper (Arlene) of Winnipeg; two daughters, Shannon Smarz (Peter) of Winnipeg Beach and Tammy King (Robert) of Parksville; five grandchildren, (Tara-An Tyndale, Amber Smarz, Dusty Smarz, Devon King and Graeme King) and two great-grandchildren (Morgan Smarz and Ethan Tyndale). Flowers are gratefully declined, those wishing, are invited to make a donation in Owens memory to CancerCare Manitoba, 1160-675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held Monday, November 15 at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. Interment and reception to follow. Arrangements in care of: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715 Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 13, 2004