Harry Langham | Sept 8, 1939 – Sept 2, 2014
In loving memory.
Harry and Marylin Langham relocated to Tsawwassen in 1961 and have remained in the Delta area ever since. Harry and Marylin welcomed 2 daughters, Lee Ann and Lisa, son Richard, son-in-law Jim as well as his 3 beloved grandchildren, Justine, Tanner and Desirae. Harry ensured all of his children were active in sports ranging from soccer, track and field, baseball and hockey. He was a quiet and unassuming man who shied away from the limelight. He believed in honoring his commitments, bringing athletes to their highest potential and skills, and raising and spending time with his family and friends.
Harry is credited with starting several sports teams in the Tsawwassen area. He was active in various roles in baseball and hockey from 1964 – 2005. Harry spent most of his years in baseball as a coach, manager, general manager and also sat in most executive positions from president, vice president, director and purchasing agent.
In 1964, Harry helped organized baseball become a reality in Tsawwassen and Ladner managing the first All-Star Team in 1965. The team, known as Bronco, won many zone, B.C. and western Canadian finals. Harry’s dedication became very evident when he personally purchased and paid for the uniforms and twenty pairs of white baseball cleats for the Oakland ‘A’ team. One of Harry’s greatest baseball achievements was the start of the Dodgers in 1977 which ran until 2005. This program has become known across Canada because of the many championships won. This provided players opportunities for university scholarships and the ability to play on local national teams.
Harry’s interest in sports was not confined to baseball. He also followed his passion in the sports of hockey and golf. Harry began Rae Hockey; it became so successful he had a waiting list to play. At the height of its popularity there were over 10 teams who won approximately 10 championships.
In 1984 Harry joined the Tsawwassen men’s golf club and quickly became president and chairman of the club until his retirement in 2004. Harry was a fixture at the Tsawwassen Golf & Country Club, and was often referred to as the God Father of Tsawwassen Golf & Country Club, now Tsawwassen Springs. He was well loved, and will be missed. Murray Poje remembers him as a great man who everyone enjoyed being around.
Adding to Harry’s list of accomplishments, he was the first inductee to the Delta Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.
Harry’s first job was at the age of 17 with the Western Canadian Steel Mill where he remained until his next adventure, which was the opening of Tsawwassen Sports Unlimited in 1973. Harry sold the store in 1981 and moved on to a position with the Corporation of Delta where he remained until his retirement.
Harry also dedicated his time and commitment to volunteerism in the community, was a long serving member of the TOOB and Legion, receiving a lifetime membership to the TOOB in 2013.
Memories of Harry and all of his accomplishments will be long lived with many in the Delta community. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Delta Hospital, whose staff took compassionate care of Harry for the last 2 months of his life.
A celebration of Harry’s life will be held at the Ladner Community Center on October 11, 2014 from 2-6 pm. Please come armed with any special photos and stories you would like to share.
