Fairport: At age 62, a resident of Fairport passed away January 7, 2016. Billy was born in Utica, NY on April 15, 1953. Bill was the eldest son in a family of 5 boys born to William A. & Virginia Z. Harp. He graduated from Fairport High School, where he was the quarterback on the varsity football team and the Section 5 wrestling champion in his weight division. He opened a small karate school in Canandaigua which eventually became Harp Karate.
He was a beloved brother, and friend to many. Billy had a kind and giving heart that always took care of others. He enjoyed playing golf with his parents and friends, and especially loved Riding in the golf cart with his mother, Virginia. Billy was an enthusiastic motorcyclist and enjoyed working with his hands and building various projects around the house, at his Martial Arts school, and for friends and family members.
William M. Harp passed unexpectedly at Highland Hospital, with family and loved ones by his side. Billy is survived by his four brothers: Paul, Peter (Janet), Robert (Regina) and Richard (Sharon); his niece, Holly Ann Kasprzak (Chris); nephews, Adam, Andrew, and Nicholas Harp, and many cousins. He was predeceased by his parents William A. and Virginia Z. Harp.
Calling hours will be Friday, January 15th, 4-7 PM at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Rd. (Egypt location), Fairport. His Funeral Mass will be Saturday, 10 AM at St John of Rochester Church (Fairport). In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to an organization of your choice in his name.
Comments
9 responses to “Harp, William M. “Bill””
To Paul and all of your family…..
I’m so sorry to hear about your brother Bill. Sending prayers…..Valerie
Condolences to Bill’s family from all at The Rochester Ta’i Chi Ch’uan Center. Our center followed Bill for many years renting space from him at the many spaces where his school called home.
My family and I offer you our deepest condolences at this time of sorrow.
Bill was quite a person and reached out to many people including the Rochester T’ai Chi Ch’uan Center. It could be argued that if it were not for him, the T’ai Chi Center would not have grown into what it is today.
Personally, I will miss him as a good person…and good people are hard to find these days.
My heartfelt condolences to all of the family.
Master Frank LaManna
Instructor
Rochester T’ai Chi Ch’uan Center
My sincerest condolences to the family. I will hold my memories of Bill over our many years of friendship close to my heart.
Shaun
My heart is heavy today to learn of the unexpected passing of Bill. Harp Karate was an important part of my life before I moved to Seattle. Sensei Harp was an amazing martial artist, instructor, communicator and leader. His presence was unmistakably felt when entering the dojo floor. I am left with many fond memories. Rest in Peace Sensei.
the world is less one incredibly wonderful person. sensei harp made every student feel like part of a family – the harp karate family. some of my fondest memories are from my time with the school in the early 80’s. may sensei RIP and live eternity with our Lord.
Dear Paul, Peter, Bobby, Rick & families,
Billy’s passing has hit all of our Harp families very hard. We share in your sorrow. And we also celebrate his life. What a fun time we’ve had talking with him over the years – his humor was so uplifting. Loved hearing him talk about his current and ‘next’ car – you know. Above all his love for your Mom & Dad and each of you shone through. What a terrific son, brother and cousin!
We love you – The Block Family: Butch, Len, Rick, Dave & Paula and Doug
Thinking of Paul, Peter, Bob and Richard.
Sensei Harp/Billy was an amazing martial artist, teacher and friend. I will forever be grateful for all the good times and encouragement and mentoring he gave me.