David Harper, owner of Meaford's 100 Mile Market with his wife Barbara, died on Saturday after a brief but brutal illness.

Around the Sound owes its existence to David's generous spirit. When I asked him what he thought about a store like the 100 Mile Market in Owen Sound, his first words were "Marvellous! What can we do to help?" And help they did, in every possible way - from wise and patient advice, directing suppliers and promotion my way, to all those delicious elk pepperettes.

David had the most delightful sense of humour. I still remember him at the podium at the first Field to Fork Feast a few weeks before we opened. My back was turned and he said to a packed house "Anne! Pay attention woman - I'm trying to plug your new store!"

David and Barbara together were pioneers in the local food movement. I will always be very grateful for their courageous leadership.

Our sympathy to Barbara and to David's family. A memorial and celebration of David's life will be held Sunday, May 10 at 2 p.m. at Meaford Hall, followed by a reception.