The family of Tommy LeRon Harker, affectionately known as Ron Sr., is heartbroken to announce his passing on March 27, 2026, at the age of 77.

Capturing the essence of our dad in an obituary feels nearly impossible, yet we wish to share his light with the world. Though his body was weary, his spirit remains with us.

Ron’s journey began as the firstborn to Warren and Frances Harker on December 31, 1948. He was soon joined by his brothers, Brent and Randy, and his sister, Cheryl. The Harker family made their home in Cardston, Alberta, where Ron met the love of his life, Marthe. Their first date occurred when Marthe was just 15 and Ron was 16. High school sweethearts, they married shortly after Marthe graduated, on August 17, 1968. The following year, their family grew with the birth of their daughter, Tricia, and three years later, they welcomed their son, Ron Jr.

Ron began his career in the building supply industry with Beaver Lumber in Fort Macleod and Oyen, Alberta. After a brief departure, he joined the Imperial Lumber Group in Camrose for two years, before rejoining Beaver Lumber in 1978, moving first to Lethbridge and then to Fort St. John in 1980. He became known as Beaver Lumber’s go-to manager for revitalizing struggling stores. Unfortunately, his time there ended in 1982 with the oilfield crash in Fort St. John. After a short stint with the Co-op, he fulfilled his dream of owning a lumber yard in partnership with Stan Burkholder at Burkholder Building Supplies in Bluesky, Alberta. Their strong bond led to a successful partnership. After selling the store, Ron started his own delivery service between Grande Prairie and Fairview, eventually working with his son, Ron Jr. In 2012, Ron and Marthe settled permanently in Grande Prairie, where they enjoyed being close to their children and grandchildren.

In 2009, Shaw’s Point became their cherished retreat. Every summer, Ron and Marthe were surrounded by family, relishing every moment. Ron loved fishing, driving his golf cart, and chatting with friends during his adventures. Evenings were spent around the fire, enjoying the company of family and their extended family, the Walissers. There was truly nowhere else he wanted to be.

Ron was a humble man with a radiant smile, a memorable belly laugh, and a twinkle in his green eyes that will forever remain in our hearts.

He may not have realized the profound impact he had on those around him. His love for Marthe, his wife of 63 years; for his children, Tricia and Ron Jr.; for his grandchildren; and for his siblings, their families, and his hockey and motorcycle friends, was immeasurable. The list of those who adored him goes on and on.

Though his light began 77 years ago, it did not extinguish on March 27, 2026; it continues to shine in all of us who were fortunate enough to know him as a husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate, Marthe; his daughter, Tricia (Neil); his son, Ron Jr. (Tracy); and his cherished grandchildren: Jordyn (David), Allison (Tindy), Brenden, Delaney, and the star of our lives, his great-grandson, Luca. He is also survived by his sister, Cheryl (Paul), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ron was predeceased by his beloved mother, Frances; his brothers, Brent and Randy; and his sister-in-law, Marilyn.

In honoring Ron's wishes, there will be no formal service. We invite you to remember him by reflecting on your favorite memory with him and sharing a smile.

If family or friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the “Ride for Dad” Prostate Cancer Fight Foundation (https://ridefordad.ca/).