William Charlie Harp

William was born on June 30,1924 in Teague, Texas. He was the third born son to Charles and Anna Harp. He attended school in Texas and at the tender age of 18 he joined the U.S. Navy in December of 1942. He served in WWII, the Korean War and in Vietnam as an Aviation Structural Mechanic during his twenty-six years of service. Upon his retirement he took on a second career with the Chula Vista School District which lasted another 24 years.

William was married to Velia Harp, the love of his life, on June 9, 1951. Their union was blessed for 59 years and two daughters; Debra Bailey and Diane Rojas.

His beloved Velia predeceased him on June 11, 2008.

William will be remembered for his joy of life, dedication to family and strong work ethic. During his leisure time he enjoyed camping and fishing throughout San Diego's campgrounds. Every year he would take one grandchild at a time and devote a full week of camping and fishing lessons for each one individually.

Those special bonding times created precious memories his four grandchildren will treasure forever.

William was also active with the Fleet Reserve Association, Branch 61, in Chula Vista, California.

William is survived by his two daughters; Debra Bailey and Diane Rojas, his legacy of grandchildren; Jeremy Daniel Bailey, Tanya Renee Bailey, William Anthony Rojas, Benjamin Edward Ybarra and two great-grandchildren; Breeannah Nicole Bailey and Isabella Marie Rojas.

A visitation and celebration of life service will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Humphrey, 753 Broadway, Chula Vista, California 91910 on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. A prayer service will be officiated at 11 a.m. by Rev. David McKinney. The Patriot Guards will escort him to his eternal resting place, Holy Cross Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife Velia Harp. The United States Navy Honor Guard will perform a flag ceremony in gratitude for his sacrifice and dedication to his country.

The family kindly requests, per William's wishes, that guests dress in casual attire and refrain from wearing the color black.