Layton Robert Harper
May 11, 1944 - June 29, 2023
LAYTON ROBERT (CURLY) HARPER
May 11, 1944 – June 29, 2023
It saddens us, the family, to announce the passing of Layton who passed away on June 29, 2023 in Winnipeg after a courageous battle with Multiple Systems Atrophy.
Layton was born and raised in Amherst Nova Scotia. As a young man growing up, he enjoyed farming and looking after his beloved draft horses until becoming a member of the Canadian Armed Forces in 1962, serving with 2nd Bn Canadian Guards and 3rd Bn RCR until his retirement in 1988. Still wanting to stay busy he took on another career as a Security Guard for 14 years at Health Sciences Centre.
He is survived by his high school sweetheart wife of 56 years, Val, son Aaron (Linda), Grandson Brandon and Granddaughter Leighton. He was predeceased by son Travis, parents, Alfred and Hazel Harper and several family members.
As a hobby he collected draft horse paraphernalia and proudly bragged about seeing the famous Budweiser Draft Horsehitch 8 in hand. Visiting the annual winter Brandon Winter Fair, he spent as much time as he could in the horse barns. His other interest was one that he shared with his son Aaron which was their trucks which they proudly showed off during the summer car shows.
Even though he was a big man, he was gentle, kind and compassionate and always had time to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He worked hard to make people smile with his never-ending funny sayings and jokes.
A Celebration of life will be held at St James Legion Branch #4, 1755 Portage Avenue on August 22, 2023 from 2-4. A heartfelt thank you is extended to the staff at Deer Lodge Centre Lodge 4 for their extraordinary kindness to Layton.
Flowers are gratefully declined, but for those that wish to donate, the family asks that you consider –Defeat MSA Canada, 3041 Dougall Avenue, Suite 208, Windsor, ON N9E 1S3.
‘’Our hearts still ache with sadness, and secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you- NO ONE can ever know’’.