IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Donovan Lee

Donovan Lee Harpster Profile Photo

Harpster

Mar 11, 2003 — Sep 7, 2024

Obituary

Donovan Lee Harpster entered this world on March 11, 2003, in Reno, Nevada, bringing immense pride and joy to his parents, Christopher and Sara. He spent his younger years melting everyone's hearts with his radiant smile and gentle soul. He was the center of his family's world. He loved collecting Thomas the Tank Engine toys, "boonie bouncing" on the back roads with his father ("Faster, Daddy, faster!"), and serenading his mother. When his sister, Cara, came into the world five years later, his family watched him instantly bloom into her best friend and confidant. Donovan took great pride in this role, always ready to support and protect her. His genuine care and constant encouragement were evident in every interaction, whether it was sharing a joke or offering guidance through life's challenges.

From a young age, Donovan's passions shaped his character and enriched his relationships. Captivated by storytelling, he found joy in the adventures of beloved franchises like Star Wars, Spider-Man, and certain anime series, sparking deep conversations and unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones. His playful side radiated through his enthusiasm for collecting Funko Pops, building Gundams, and creating intricate LEGO sets. Alongside these hobbies, his love for quality time with his family—Christopher, Sara, and Cara; his best friend, Thoai; and his girlfriend, Truc—was a central part of his life. Donovan cherished sharing these interests, whether through light-hearted conversations or bonding moments, always eager to connect over what brought him happiness.

As he transitioned into a young man, his family settled in Kennewick, Washington, where Donovan formed bonds that would last a lifetime. It was here that he met his "boys," who became his brothers, and found the love of his life, Truc Nguyen. Donovan was known for his unwavering loyalty, kindness, and the love he shared with those closest to him. Nowhere was this more evident than in the way he loved Truc. Whether through loving gestures or creating lasting memories together, Donovan felt fulfilled by the joy he could bring into their lives. Their bond was at the core of the life they were building together. Donovan navigated adulthood alongside his many friends and family, embracing life's challenges and joys, encouraging him to partake in many adrenaline-filled adventures and create memories that will last a lifetime. His love for new experiences was pure and wholehearted, which led to his explorative taste in various cuisines from different cultures.

Donovan graduated from Kamiakin High School in 2021, earned his Associate's Degree from Columbia Basin College, and had planned to finish his education to accomplish his lifelong dream of becoming a high school history teacher. He flourished in his role at Gesa Credit Union as a Personal Financial Representative, where his dedication, integrity, and genuine care earned him the respect and admiration of both clients and colleagues.

For 21 years, his family and friends reveled in his kindness, were left in stitches by his incredibly sharp wit, and were honored to watch him grow into an astonishing, irreplaceable man. Anyone who had the chance to know him was forever changed for the better. The son, the brother, the grandson, the nephew, the friend, and the boyfriend he was—there will never be another like him.

He leaves behind his beloved parents, Christopher and Sara Harpster; his sidekick sister, Cara Marylen Harpster; his Grami and Papa, Mary and Glen De Mers; his Nana, Ida Louise O'Connor; his aunts and uncles: Dana and Johnnie Warren, Lashanda and Ryan Goforth, Molly and Ashlee Bareiss-De Mers, Joseph and Monica De Mers, Melanie and Adam Enquist, Donovan Kay Harpster, and Cherie Bettinger; his many cousins; his extended families: the Nguyen family, the Tran family, and the Pham family; the "Ned" to his "Peter Parker", Thoai Pham; his fur babies, Charlie and Taro; and his forever love, Truc Nguyen.

As we honor Donovan, we remember the depth of his love, his loyalty, and the lasting impact he had on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his honor to The Jed Foundation (www.jedfoundation.org). Never seek a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

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September
11

Wednesday

Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home

1401 South Union Street, Kennewick, WA 99338

5:00 - 8:00 pm

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