Harvey Danney Harper

1946 - 2023

Harvey Danney Harper

Harvey Danney Harper (Dan) was born in Eureka, California, on August 22, 1946, and passed away on July 18, 2023. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 43 years, Beverly H. Harper; son Trevor Harper and his wife Wendy of Freshwater, California; daughters Courtney Harper and her partner, Matt Garrett of Freshwater, California, and Elizabeth Henderson and her husband, Spencer of West Linn, Oregon; sister Elizabeth Anne Lawson and her daughter Starbright of Eureka, California; stepbrother Clarence 'Butch' Parton of Eureka, California; sister-in-law Donna Harper of Courtland, California; nephew Eric Harper and his wife Maiko, and their daughters Sophie and Lauren of Dallas, Texas. He is also survived by his grandchildren Morgan, Marshall, and Rose Marie Harper of Freshwater, California.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Johnson Harper; brothers Geddes E. Harper and Michael G. Harper; stepmother Elizabeth A. Harper; and father, Harvey G. Harper.
Dan grew up in Humboldt County, attending Marshall Elementary and Eureka High School. He attended Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. Dan left his studies at Humboldt State to pursue his dream of becoming a race car driver. He worked during the day at the family Ford Dealership in downtown Eureka and spent the evenings working on his race cars. His racing experience included the Continental Formula 5000 Series and later the Northern Auto Racing Club (NARC) Sprint Car Series. Dan raced on a shoestring budget and depended on his friends' help, for which he is forever grateful.
After learning he was not getting particularly rich or famous racing cars, he spent more of his working career helping the family automobile business grow and moving the operation to its current location on the highway. He is a past member of the Eureka Rotary Club (1974 to 1984) and a former President of the Eureka Chamber of Commerce. He is a member of the Arcata Chamber of Commerce and the Ingomar Club.
Dan enjoyed being with his family and spending time at Hawkins Bar, Mad River, and Big Lagoon.
In Dan's earlier years, he was an avid duck, deer, and bear hunter; however, after shooting a bear on Friday Ridge in Trinity County, a spiritual feeling came over him, and he quit hunting. He did continue to fish all over the United States, Mexico, and New Zealand. His greatest thrill in fishing was letting them go!
At Dan's request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations, or anything else, Dan requests that you and your loved ones go out to a nice dinner and enjoy life!
Dan's family would like to thank Hospice for their comfort and care.