John HARPER

HARPER, John David
March 21, 1939 - Toronto, Ontario
October 24, 2017 - Calgary, Alberta
Dr. John D. Harper passed away suddenly on October 24, 2017 at the age of 78 years. John had a great affection for his family. John was a dedicated husband and incredibly proud of his son's, daughter-in-law's and grandchildren's accomplishments. He was a consummate teacher and leader who shared his love of science, the outdoors, canoeing, skiing and exploring. John graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Geology and continued on to receive his Masters of Applied Science. In 1969, John received his Ph.D. from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, USA in Carbonate and Clastic Sedimentology. John was a passionate Geologist who worked across the globe and made significant contributions to petroleum geoscience and hydrocarbon exploration during an outstanding career spanning nearly fifty years. Highlights of his career included his tenure as a full Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he was actively involved in advising and mentoring students, his work with Alconsult International and ConocoPhillips, and his time serving as the Director of the Geological Survey of Canada. John volunteered as a member of the Canadian Ski Patrol System for nearly forty years, coached youth soccer for several years, and was involved in various other community organizations and activities throughout his lifetime. John is survived by his beloved wife Cathy, of fifty-five years, his beloved children David and his spouse Leanne, grandchildren Ian and Diana of Denver, Colorado; Tim and his spouse Alison and their gorgeous dogs Oakley and Lucy, of the Yukon Territory. A private reception is to be held at a later date. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca. In living memory of Dr. John Harper, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.