John W. Harple Jr., 62, of Coatesville, passed away peacefully on January 20th, 2026 surrounded by his loved ones, due to an extended illness that began several years ago with early-onset dementia. Born September 26, 1963, in West Chester, PA to the late John W. Harple Sr. and Carol A. Harple (Burkholder).
John was a graduate of Coatesville Area Senior High School, class of 1982. He furthered his education at Delaware County Community College with a business degree in 2019.
He worked for LNP in Thorndale, where he dedicated thirty-plus years as a maintenance mechanic.
John was happiest when sharing knowledge with others. A lover of the outdoors, he enjoyed fishing, gardening, hiking, and hunting at Camp Caln in Frenchville, PA. John will be remembered most by his uncanny ability to show up at dinner time, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and his dry sense of humor.
John was a devoted father to both of his daughters, where they enjoyed going to the shooting range, Hershey park, tending to chickens, attending dance recitals and school activities, trips to Disney World, and especially late-night talks about life with his eldest daughter.
John will be deeply missed but always remembered with love by his daughters, Emily Ann Harple, 24, (Dalton “the big guy”), and Ava Grace Harple, 17.
In addition, John is survived by his siblings, Mary Ann Harple of Narvon, PA, Lynda Pike (Keith) of Coatesville, PA (who provided him with constant care, comfort, and compassion up until his final moments), Steven Eachus (Karen) of Lynchburg, VA, and Michael Eachus (Lisa) of The Villages, FL.
He is survived by his nieces Danielle Bronson (Jesse), Nichole Pacana, and Jenna Pike (Luke).
The love he poured into their youth was returned to him tenderly throughout his journey. He is also survived by many other nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
John is preceded in death by his sisters Sharon L. Eachus and Janice M. Eachus.
John’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the personnel at Arbor Terrace Exton (memory care) and Holisticare Hospice for the wonderful care that John received. Special gratitude is extended to “Uncle John’s” hospice nurse, who went above and beyond, Dana Likens, and his “niece,” Aja Stalter (Jimmy), who was his biggest advocate and safe space.
A celebration of life will be held on May 2nd, 2026 from 3-8pm at St. Anthony’s Lodge
259 Church Street Downingtown, PA 19335. If you plan to join us, please let Danielle Bronson know at mrsdbronson@comcast.net.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s honor can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.