Above: A classic photo of Harry, from his Two HP logging days.
It is with a deep sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend, Harry Prosser. Harry was like family to me. When his daughter Sylvianne messaged me yesterday to let me know he was gone, I was gutted.
I met Harry shortly after moving to Tumbler Ridge. He, his lovely wife, and his daughter Sylvianne quickly became some of my favourite people. Harry was a rugged horse logger with a golden heart and the most fascinating stories.
We would talk about his handsome horses who were community celebrities. At Christmas his black beauties would pull a sleigh for the food drive and then the lucky excited children would get rides with Santa. We often talked about how to make our community an even better place to live. We both had big dreams for TR and we would talk about life in general. I am a better person for knowing Harry.
Harry had a unique way of seeing the world, and his passion for making Tumbler Ridge a better place was infectious. I vividly remember the day Harry called me with an idea to help Tumbler Ridge diversify by applying for a Community Forest. Harry had the knowledge, and I could write and fill in forms. We spent countless hours working together. It was a true pleasure seeing his Community Forest dream come true. From that point on, whenever Harry needed some writing done, he would call me.
One of the most remarkable things about Harry was his vitality. I remember working with him on his application to run the One Island Lake park and discovering his age. “Harry, you are over 80 and still out cutting wood and taking care of campsites, blessing campers with your amazing outlook on life.” I was shocked. Harry seemed to be the same age as the day I met him—he never seemed to change. His energy and zest for life were truly inspiring.
Harry had a personality that could light up a room. He was a beautiful human being, full of kindness and wisdom. One of the highlights of my time with Harry was when I was part of bringing the Still Standing show into Tumbler Ridge. When the producers asked me to help find people to interview for the show, Harry and Clay Isles were a MUST. The two of them were so natural in front of the cameras, and I am so thankful now that we will always have our Still Standing episode to look back on and remember both Clay and, of course, my amazing friend Harry.
Harry’s passing is a profound loss for all who knew him, for the community of Tumbler Ridge and of course for Sylvianne and her family. His stories, his wisdom, and his unwavering dedication to his community will be deeply missed. He left an indelible mark on Tumbler Ridge and on the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Harry, you will be so missed, my friend. I hope there are vast forests filled with the tallest, strongest trees for you to take care of and rest easy!
