David L Harding

David L. Harding, Sr., 74, of New Philadelphia, passed away in Mercy Medical Center at Canton on May 2, 2015 following a period of declining health.

Born in Newton, Massachusetts on September 8, 1940, he was the son of the late Bertram LeForest and Doris (Walton) Harding. In 1973, Dave became a resident of the Tuscarawas Valley where he remained throughout his lifetime.

The well-known restauranteur began his career in Tuscarawas County in 1973 with Perkins/The Hangar. In 1994, he and his wife, Jill, opened The Pro’s Table. He was dedicated to providing exceptional service and delicious cuisine throughout his career.

Personally, Dave was an avid golfer, animal lover, and enjoyed following sports. He was delighted that the Cleveland Cavaliers were in the play-offs this season.

Dave married his loving wife, the former Jill A. Graham, with whom he shared 33 years of marriage. Together, they greatly enjoyed their time in Las Vegas and also their home in Utah. They were often found at the restaurant, but also enjoyed spending time with their friends and family.

Dave was a former member of the New Philadelphia Elks Lodge #510 and a member of the Union Country Club in Dover.

In addition to his wife, Jill of New Philadelphia, he will be deeply missed by his children, Denise (Donnie) Harding of Sagamore Hills, David (Bonnie) Harding of Bedford, Indiana, and Michael Harding of Atwood Lake; his grandchildren, Brandi (Shawn) Neighbor, Blake, Natasha, Zaine, and Ethan Harding; his 11 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Sandra (Stephen) Ellinwood of Arizona and Nancy (Louis) LaStarza of Cranston, Rhode Island; his brother, Jon Harding of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his sister-in-law, Jackie (Eric) Day of Dover; his brother-in-law, Bob (Connie Reneker) Graham of New Philadelphia; and his best friend and companion of 12 years, his dog, Jake, and many cats. Numerous nieces, nephews, and friends complete his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory of Dover.

Memorial contributions in Dave’s memory may be directed to the charity of the donor’s choice.