May 11, 1956 – November 28, 2017
Paul (David) Harman passed away on November 28, 2017 in Fort McMurray, AB at the age of 61. David was born on May 11, 1956 in County Durham, England, the eldest of seven children. His family immigrated to Ontario when Dave was two, and finally settled in Thompson, MB.
Growing up in a northern mining town, Dave developed a love for the outdoors. The Harmans were avid campers, and every summer the family embarked on adventures to different parks in Canada. Dave’s love of nature guided his choice of career. He graduated from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, ON with a degree in Forestry. Many friendships were forged in his university and summer job days that lasted until his passing.
In 1981 Dave moved to Meadow Lake, SK, where he began his career in forestry with the local sawmill. This was also where he met Linda Mulligan, a young school teacher. Linda and Dave married in 1983, and were blessed with three children; Kaitlin, Jeff and Sean.
Dave was a proud fan of all his kids’ activities and sports, attending games and tournaments across the province. He was also passionate about living actively; family vacations were always more fun if they involved hiking, biking and exploring the outdoors.
Dave’s career followed many paths as the forestry industry in Saskatchewan evolved. His work took him from Meadow Lake to Hudson Bay, Prince Albert, and finally, Fort McMurray. Dave was a dedicated forester, and working for a family-owned operation was an excellent fit for him. The team at Northlands Forest Products supported each other, particularly in May 2016 when a forest fire threatened the mill. Dave was proud to stand with the team to protect and save the mill. No matter where he worked Dave’s family was his number one priority.
In recent years, he and Linda travelled to England, California, Hawaii, and throughout Western Canada. They also enjoyed many trips with their grandson Aiden.
Dave will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 34 years, Linda; his children Kaitlin, Jeff (Lauren) and Sean; grandchildren Aiden and Khloe; siblings Peter, Alan (Bertha), Mary (David), and Ian; nieces and nephews; and friends and colleagues.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, Patricia and Paul Harman, and his siblings John and Anne.
A celebration of Dave’s life was held on December 4, 2017 in Meadow Lake, SK.
Card of Thanks
Dave’s family would like to thank the community of Meadow Lake for the outpouring of support and friendship we have received. The food, flowers and visits were very much appreciated. Thank you to Roberta Patterson, Terry Dallyn, Moira Tether, the Ward family, and the Northwest School Division, and to Dave’s colleagues from across Western Canada for attending and reaching out to our family. We would also like to thank JE Thomas Funeral Homes and Darcy for their care and attention to detail; Dr. Lynn Caldwell, Janet Caldwell, and the Grace United Church and Alliance Church for the beautiful service; Chelsey Vermette and the Little Brown Jug in Goodsoil, SK for the catering. Donations in Dave’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
