HARPER, Dennis Coffee, Rev. (1905-1988)
Memorial minute Presbytery of Melb North 1988
Denis Coffee Harper was born in Queenstown in Cork, Ireland, and with his family migrated to Australia in 1910. There were five boys in the family, three of whom became ministers. Denis trained first for the Baptist ministry commencing as a student at Temora at the age of nineteen, and was ordained in 1929. Denis' first parish was at Grafton where he married Phyllis Kelly; and he served also at Dungog, Drummoyne, Blackheath, Chatswood and at Essendon.
Denis then joined the Presbyterian Church, and while doing additional studies at Ormond College, ministered at Port Arlington. His exit appointment was to Moorabool. He accepted a call to Maroopna and later to Nathalia from which he retired. However, during his retirement Denis accepted an appointment to Mia Mia and then to Rushworth-Stanhope. He also served in the area around Shepparton, at Boort and at Yea. Finally, for four years, he was a chaplain at Kirkbrae. Denis' wife, Phyllis, died in 1974 and in 1977 he married Lucy Muncie.
Denis Coffee Harper was a good friend, a great gentleman, a loving husband and father, and a faithful servant of the Church. He will be affectionately remembered for his strong and simple faith, his kindly manner, his humble spirit, his wisdom and discernment, his quiet sense of humour, and his steadfastness and dedication in the work of his Master. Denis was a loyal presbyter, and when advancing years prevented attendance at meetings he was always pleased to receive a copy of the Minutes. It was fitting that a thanksgiving service was held at Kirkbrae, where his gentle and supportive ministry had been greatly appreciated.
The Presbytery conveys its deepest sympathy to Mrs. Lucy Harper and to Esma and Graham, and commends the family to the loving care of our Heavenly Father.
Gender
- Male